Need Breathing Room in Dallas? Check Out these Rentals Less than 30-Min Away from the City

They say that everything is bigger in Texas. But if you’ve tried to find an affordable-yet-roomy apartment in downtown Dallas, you may have already discovered that a studio is the only option in your price range. The average rent for the Dallas area is just under $1,100, according to Yardi Matrix, and many renters are striking the balance between proximity to Dallas employers and the comforts of home with apartments just outside of the heart of the city.

If you can spare 30 minutes (or less) of drive time and venture out to one of these terrific Dallas suburbs, you can have room to roam and attractive amenities for much less than living downtown.

Plano

Commute time to downtown Dallas: 26 minutes (19 mi)
Best find: Colonnade at Willow Bend, from $845 for a 1-bed, 1-bath unit to $2130 for a 3-bed, 2-bath (check availability)
Perks: pet-friendly complex, including a dedicated dog park; 24-hour fitness center; resort-style pool and spa; covered parking; close to golf course and nature areas

Located primarily in Collin County, with parts extending into Denton County, Plano’s accolades extend from NerdWallet’s 2015 ranking as America’s Top Most Affordable Place to Live, to its Gold Medal from the National Recreation and Parks Association. This bike-friendly community has miles of trails; for young and old alike, Plano’s Parks and Rec department sponsors numerous community events and sports leagues as well.

While many Plano locations would put you outside of the 30-minute commute radius, Colonnade at Willow Bend’s location on the south side of Plano gives you both affordability and proximity to the downtown Dallas area.

Colonnade at Willow Bend apartments for rent in Plano, TX. Image via RentCafe

Irving

Commute time to downtown Dallas: 25 minutes (14.9 mi)
Best find: Shadows of Cottonwood, from $834 for a 1-bed, 1-bath unit to $1348 for a 2-bed, 2-bath unit (check availability).
Perks: 24-hour fitness center, including a separate yoga room, as well as a swimming pool and hot tub; dog park; proximity to public transportation; gated community.

Irving is on the western side of Dallas County and is one of the most popular Dallas suburbs for singles and families: Business Insider named it the Top Place to Live for 20-somethings, while WalletHub ranked it in the Top 20 Best Cities for Families. There’s something for everyone, from the Irving Arts Center to gondola rides, Taste of Irving, and the Laughs by the Lake evening event featuring comedy and music.

Less than fifteen miles from Dallas, it’s easy to see why living at Shadows of Cottonwood or one of the other well-priced Irving apartment complexes appeals to commuters who are looking for lots of space at downtown studio prices.

Shadows of Cottonwood apartments for rent in Irving TX. Image via RentCafe

Las Colinas

Commute time to downtown Dallas: 20 minutes (14.2 mi)
Best find: Grand Venetian at Las Colinas, from $901 for a 1-bed, 1-bath unit to $1636 for a 3-bed, 2-bath unit (check availability).
Perks: most units boast a private balcony, sunroom, or patio; sand volleyball court, large pool, and fitness center in resort-style setting; clubhouse with coffee bar and free Wi-Fi; available garages and covered parking; close to DFW International Airport.

Within the city of Irving, you’ll find the vibrant neighborhood of Las Colinas. This planned community prides itself on booming business opportunities (including four Fortune 500 companies’ headquarters), gorgeous landscaping, and ample options for shopping, dining, and nightlife. There’s even a Las Colinas symphony to delight music-lovers.

While slightly on the higher end of the rent scale when considering Dallas suburbs, Grand Venetian’s amenities and location — especially its proximity to numerous public transportation options — make it one of the most compelling apartment complexes in the greater Dallas area.

Grand Venetian at Las Colinas apartments for rent in Las Colinas, TX. Image via RentCafe

If these apartments don’t quite meet your needs, don’t worry! There are tons of options within Dallas County for you to find your perfect place.