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Houston's rental market heated up in July as the peak summer moving season brought a surge in leasing activity. More single-family homes were leased than a year ago, while prices remained relatively steady and renters continued to have a broad selection of properties to choose from. The combination of strong demand and healthy inventory is helping keep the Greater Houston rental market balanced as summer winds down.
According to the Houston Association of REALTORS (HAR) July 2026 Rental Market Update, 5,185 single-family homes were leased in July, a 12.1% increase compared to the same month last year.
The increase comes during what is typically one of Houston's busiest times for renters. Summer moves are common as families prepare for a new school year and others take advantage of the season to relocate.
Despite the jump in leasing activity, renters did not see a significant change in prices.
The average lease price for a single-family home was $2,419, virtually unchanged from July 2025. That price stability, combined with elevated inventory, is creating more options for renters searching for a home.
July's key single-family rental numbers include:
The increase in Days on Market means rental homes are taking slightly longer to lease than they did a year ago.
With 9,832 single-family rental homes available, Houston renters had a wide range of options in July.
More inventory can give renters greater flexibility when comparing homes, locations, amenities and monthly costs. At the same time, the strong increase in signed leases shows there is still healthy demand for rental housing across the region.
That combination of supply and demand is helping prevent major swings in lease prices, creating a more balanced environment for both renters and property owners.
The townhome and condominium rental market followed a slightly different pattern in July.
Leasing activity dipped 2.8% year over year to 706 properties, but the number of new listings increased 8.5% to 1,327 units, expanding the selection available to renters.
Other highlights include:
While prices increased in this segment, the growth in new listings means renters searching for a townhome or condo have more properties to consider.
July was an active month for Houston's rental market, especially for single-family homes. Strong leasing activity shows that renters are on the move, while steady prices and elevated inventory are giving them more flexibility in their searches.
As Houston heads toward fall, renters continue to benefit from a healthy selection of available homes. Whether searching for a single-family home, townhome or condo, the current market offers plenty of opportunities to compare options and find a property that fits individual needs and budgets.
Are Houston rental prices increasing?
Single-family rental prices were relatively stable in July. The average lease price was $2,419, virtually unchanged from the same month last year.
Is demand for Houston rental homes strong?
Yes. Single-family leased listings increased 12.1% year over year, with 5,185 homes leased during July.
Do Houston renters have more homes to choose from?
Renters had a broad selection of properties available in July, including 9,832 active single-family rental listings. New townhome and condo listings also increased 8.5% from a year ago.
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