Looking for Affordability? These Are the Most Budget-Friendly Cities in DFW Right Now
Let’s face it—home prices across Dallas–Fort Worth have come a long way over the past five years. But that doesn’t mean affordability is off the table. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer, relocating for work, or looking for your next investment property, there are still areas in the DFW metroplex where your dollar stretches further—and many of them are quietly becoming some of the most desirable places to live.
Here’s a detailed look at the most affordable cities in DFW for 2025, including what makes them attractive, where they’re headed, and what types of homes and buyers they tend to draw.
1. Mesquite: East Dallas Value with Strong Commuter Access
Median Home Price: ~$265,000
Commute Access: I-30, I-635
Vibe: Suburban, diverse, family-focused
Mesquite is one of the most budget-friendly cities east of Dallas. With convenient freeway access and a growing inventory of updated homes, it's perfect for first-time buyers, renters ready to own, and small families looking for affordability without giving up proximity to the city.
Buyers here are finding starter homes built in the 1970s–1990s under $300K—many with recent upgrades. The city also offers parks, retail centers, and continues to attract new development interest.
2. Saginaw: Quiet Growth Just Outside Fort Worth
Median Home Price: ~$295,000
Commute Access: I-820, US-287
Vibe: Laid-back, suburban, newer builds
Located just north of Fort Worth, Saginaw offers great value with a strong school district and newer construction. Many neighborhoods offer 3–4 bedroom homes built after 2005, and it's not uncommon to find well-maintained homes with modern finishes in the high $200Ks.
This area is ideal for growing families and buyers seeking newer homes at entry-level pricing, with easy access to Alliance and Fort Worth job centers.
3. Garland: Affordability Meets Opportunity in East Dallas
Median Home Price: ~$280,000
Commute Access: I-635, Hwy 78
Vibe: Established, multicultural, strong rental demand
Garland offers a mix of older homes with charm and updated ranch-style houses perfect for investors or handy buyers. Its proximity to Richardson tech corridors, Rockwall, and Lake Ray Hubbard makes it appealing for both commuters and renters.
The city has seen steady appreciation but remains one of the most affordable options with access to DFW’s northeastern suburbs.
4. Lancaster & DeSoto: Room to Grow South of Dallas
Median Home Price: ~$270K–$285K
Commute Access: I-35E, I-20
Vibe: Spacious, suburban, maturing neighborhoods
These southern Dallas suburbs offer larger lots, 3–4 bedroom homes under $300K, and an increasing number of first-time and move-up buyers. DeSoto has better-established subdivisions, while Lancaster often offers more affordable pricing per square foot.
Expect affordable two-story homes, some with upgrades, plus easy freeway access to major employers across South Dallas, Duncanville, and Downtown.
5. Everman & Forest Hill: Investor-Friendly and Budget-Wise
Median Home Price: ~$230,000
Commute Access: I-20, I-35W
Vibe: Up-and-coming, rental potential, entry-level homes
South and southeast of Fort Worth, these areas offer some of the lowest price points in Tarrant County. While you’ll find older homes and mixed neighborhood conditions, many buyers are taking advantage of low prices to buy and renovate.
Great for entry-level homebuyers or long-term investors, especially as Fort Worth’s expansion continues southward.
6. Azle & Springtown: Affordable Acreage and Lake Access
Median Home Price: ~$260,000
Commute Access: Hwy 199, FM 730
Vibe: Rural, quiet, close to Eagle Mountain Lake
If space and nature are your priorities, Azle and Springtown offer homes on larger lots and peaceful surroundings at an affordable price. You’ll find everything from manufactured homes to brick houses with land—perfect for families, retirees, or tradespeople.
Buyers often enjoy more freedom with property usage, including RVs, workshops, or even small livestock.
7. White Settlement & Sansom Park: Budget-Friendly and Central
Median Home Price: ~$240,000
Commute Access: Loop 820, Hwy 183
Vibe: Modest, transitional, ideal for small families and investors
These Fort Worth suburbs are popular with Lockheed Martin employees, medical workers, and military families stationed at nearby NAS JRB. You’ll find small homes—many under 1,500 sq. ft.—that are perfect for first-time buyers or fix-and-hold investors.
Some neighborhoods are seeing new construction activity, adding long-term value to the area.
8. South Grand Prairie: Hidden Value Near the Center of DFW
Median Home Price: ~$285,000
Commute Access: SH-360, I-20, PGBT
Vibe: Convenient, suburban, accessible
Often overshadowed by Arlington and Irving, South Grand Prairie remains one of the best-kept secrets in DFW for affordability and access. Homes are reasonably priced, neighborhoods are well-kept, and you’re within 25 minutes of both downtowns.
Buyers here enjoy proximity to Lone Star Park, IKEA, and EpicCentral while avoiding the higher taxes of Dallas proper.
Why These Cities Are Worth Watching
As DFW grows outward, these affordable cities are likely to benefit from:
New highways and infrastructure projects
Increased commercial and retail development
Rising demand from priced-out buyers
Zoning and land availability for new builds
Each of these areas is uniquely positioned for different types of buyers—some are better for families, some for investors, others for downsizing retirees. What they all share is value, livability, and long-term upside.
Let’s Find What Fits Your Budget and Lifestyle
Affordability in DFW isn’t gone—it’s just shifted. And in many ways, now is the best time to explore these overlooked markets before they’re discovered by the rest of the region.
Whether you’re looking for a first home, an investment property, or a strategic relocation, I’d love to help you explore your options in the cities that are growing quietly—but steadily.
—
Gustavo Ramos
Realtor – Keller Williams Dallas Metro North
(817) 876-3390
gustavoramos@kw.com
gustavoramos.kw.com
