Houston-area renters opened 2026 with more choices and slightly lower prices, according to the Houston Association of Realtors’ January Rental Market Update released Feb. 18.
A closer look
The average lease price for a single-family rental fell 3.3% from a year earlier to $2,214, which HAR officials said is the lowest level since December 2023.
Even with prices easing, demand didn’t disappear. Leased listings rose 11% year over year to 3,447 homes, while new listings climbed 16.4% to 6,499 properties, giving renters more inventory to work with, according to the report.
One reason renters may feel more leverage right now is that homes are sitting longer. Days on market rose to 50 days, HAR’s report states, its highest January level since 2019.
HAR leaders framed the shift as a chance for renters to shop more strategically instead of rushing.
“This is the most breathing room renters have had in years,” HAR Chair Theresa Hill said. “We’re seeing more balance and more options for renters, and if that trend continues, it could create new opportunities for both tenants and future homebuyers in the months ahead.”
Also of note
Townhomes and condos also loosened up, according to the report.
HAR reported 504 townhome/condo units leased, up 6.3%, and 1,145 new listings, up 23.4%. The average lease price ticked down to $1,847, while days on market increased to 59 days, per the report.
Keep in mind
The January cooldown follows a year when Houston’s single-family rental market expanded. HAR’s December full-year report showed 47,292 single-family rentals in 2025, up from 44,551 in 2024, as reported.