If you're thinking of relocating to Texas and looking for a city to put down roots, you could do a lot worse than Irving. Situated at the center of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, Irving has a lot to recommend it: close proximity to amenities, a superior quality of life, and an affordable cost of living compared to nearby cities like Plano or Carrollton. So what makes Irving so special, and -- more importantly -- how can you find an affordable apartment there? Read on for answers.
Perks of Living in Irving
There's a reason Irving is such an attractive destination, and primary among them is its central location. Irving is just a few minutes away from downtown Dallas and all the attractions and businesses that make their home there. If you need someplace close to the DFW Airport, Irving is pretty ideal, making it extra appealing for frequent travelers.
Another major reason to make your home in Irving? Affordable living. As previously mentioned, rental prices in Irving are considerably less than in nearby cities like Plano or Carrollton, meaning you can enjoy all that a city has to offer without paying through the nose for it.
Just how good are the rental rates in Irving? Here's a quick breakdown:
For a one-bedroom apartment, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1,000 to $1,300 per month. While this varies according to location and amenities, compare that to the average monthly rent for the same property in Dallas: $1,592.
A two-bedroom apartment in Irving will run you anywhere from $1,300 to $1,800, the ideal space for couples, small families, or roommates. That same space in Dallas is likely to cost around $2,000 a month.
Larger spaces, such as a 3-bedroom apartment, will cost you $1,800 to $2,500 in Irving. In Dallas, you'll be lucky to find anything under $2,800.
Of course, how much you pay monthly will depend on which neighborhood you're trying to move into. When looking for an apartment, you should also think about extra expenses like deposit, first and last month's rent, and renters insurance. These days, most landlords require insurance as part of the lease, and it's a good idea to have it even if it's not mandatory. Ross Martin at insurance comparison site The Zebra has some good news, though: on the average, Texas renters insurance is about $188 annually, often coming out to around $20 a month or less. Renters insurance will vary by company, though -- Safeco has some of the least expensive insurance you can get in Irving -- so it's wise to shop around and compare quotes before signing up with an insurance provider.
Tips for Finding Affordable Apartments
Just because the average rental cost is a bit lower doesn't mean you'll necessarily be able to afford any apartment in Irving. Finding a place you love for a price you can live with might take some doing, but it can be done. Here are a few strategies for making your apartment hunt easier:
Use Online Resources. Make the most of websites like Zillow, Apartments.com and Rent.com. Browse listings and use filters to find something that will fit your budget and have all the amenities you need.
Choose the Right Neighborhood. Like most cities, Irving has a wide variety of neighborhoods to choose from, some of them much more affordable than others. If you're bargain-conscious, consider an area like the Heritage District or Center City, where the average rent tends to be a little lower.
Look at Smaller/Older Apartments. Some apartments might have a little more wear-and-tear on them, but they could offer very similar comforts for a lower price. This is especially useful if you're not planning on staying more than a couple of years.
Don't Be Afraid to Negotiate. If you have a strong rental history and good credit, you might not have anything to lose by negotiating with your prospective landlord. Many of them prefer a reliable tenant to a higher rent.
Utilities Included. If you can manage it, try to find a place that has inclusive utilities. It simplifies your budget-making and can save you money in the long run.
Help With Affordable Apartments in Irving
If you fid you need some extra help affording rent in Irving, you should know you do have options. The City of Irving and the State of Texas both offer programs that provide support to people having trouble naking their rental payments. The key resource they provide for eligible parties include:
Texas Rental Relief Program: This program offers financial assistance to renters who are struggling as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and its aftermath. This program applies to both renters and landlords and may also provide relief with utility bills.
City of Irving Rental Assistance: The city itself also has various rental assistance programs for those having trouble making ends meet. These programs can offer temporary relief to avoid homelessness and help families maintain stable housing.
