Austin 1-Bedroom Rent Drops More Than Expected - Austin - 1

When searching for 1-bedroom apartment rentals in Austin on listing sites, properties around $1,400 are the most noticeable.

The median rent is estimated to be between $1,380 and $1,450, which may seem surprisingly low given the recent price drop.

Data shows that Austin was one of the cities that experienced a significant rent spike between 2021 and 2022, but it is now considered one of the few major cities that have undergone a downward adjustment due to a large influx of new construction. Over the past year, the trend has been fluctuating between slight declines and stability, indicating a market that is increasingly favorable for tenants.

Looking at regional variations, it is common for areas near downtown and South Congress to exceed $1,700, while prices in outer areas like Round Rock or toward Federalist can drop to the low $1,200s. The oversupply of new high-rise developments in the city center is cited as one of the factors pulling down the overall average.

Compared to nearby cities, Austin still maintains a higher level than Dallas or Houston, but the gap appears to have narrowed. In comparison to San Antonio, Austin is still over $300 higher, leading to an increase in cases where those on a tight budget are considering nearby small towns.

For Korean households, areas like Parker Lane and Runnels Bend in North Austin are consistently preferred for their proximity to Korean markets and school districts. However, this area often has rents that are somewhat higher than the Austin average, suggesting a need to prioritize between commuting distance and community accessibility.

  • Downtown/South Congress: $1,600–$1,900
  • North Austin Korean community area: $1,450–$1,650
  • Round Rock/Outskirts: $1,150–$1,300

Studios are around $1,150, and 2-bedroom units are priced at about $1,800, so families considering a move should keep in mind that transitioning to a 2-bedroom could significantly increase their budget.

In conclusion, the Austin rental market is entering a phase of adjustment due to increased supply. If you are considering a move, now may be a relatively good time for negotiations, and it is noted that these figures are based on the market as of the first half of 2026.