14 Best Places to Live in Denton Texas

Denton, Texas, is one of the fastest-growing and student‑friendly cities in the U.S., known for its lively music scene, welcoming community, and vibrant college-town vibe. Home to the University of North Texas (UNT) and Texas Woman's University (TWU), the city attracts thousands of students every year. But finding the right places to live in Denton can feel overwhelming, especially if you're new to the city. To make things easier, here’s a detailed guide to the best neighborhoods in Denton TX, including lifestyle, affordability, and nearby student housing.

List of the 14 best places to live in Denton texas

1. Downtown Denton

Known for: Music, nightlife, UNT proximity
Things to Do: Denton Square, live music venues, cafés, restaurants
Pros: Walkable, lively, close to campus
Cons: Higher rent, busy on weekends

Average rent: $1,000 to $1,200 per month

Downtown Denton is one of the best neighborhoods to live in Denton, thanks to its energetic student scene, historic charm, and endless entertainment. The area is packed with cafés and eateries like LSA Burger Co., Black Bear Coffee, Jeanine’s, and Brew & Brownie for study sessions, brunches, and casual meals. Students often hang out at Courthouse‑on‑the‑Square Park, Denton Square, and local bookstores like Recycled Books, enjoying live music, food festivals, or community events. Popular attractions and venues nearby include the Campus Theater, Denton Community Market, the Denton Arts & Jazz Festival, and UNT’s music performances, offering a vibrant mix of culture, food, and student-friendly activities.

With many student flats in Denton like City Parc at Fry Street and Astoria nearby, Downtown remains one of the best places to live in Denton Texas, for those looking for convenience and nightlife.

2. Southridge

Known for: Suburban comfort
Things to Do: Local parks, cafés, family-friendly spaces
Pros: Quiet, safe, clean
Cons: Limited nightlife

Average rent: $1,000 to $1,500 per month

Southridge is one of the safest areas in Denton, ideal for families, working professionals, and graduate students. The neighborhood features tree-lined streets and well-kept homes. Popular cafés and eateries include Black Eyed Coffee, Southern Pie Kitchen, and Whataburger. Students and residents often hang out at Southridge Park, North Lakes Park, and nearby walking trails. Seasonal events like farmers’ markets and outdoor movie nights add to the community vibe. Nearby attractions include the Denton Civic Center and Golden Triangle Mall.

With spacious homes and family‑oriented surroundings, Southridge represents one of the good areas to live in Denton for those seeking safety and comfort.

3. Rayzor Ranch

Known for: Shopping + modern living
Things to Do: Rayzor Ranch Town Center, gyms, restaurants
Pros: New apartments, convenient, good transit
Cons: Busy during weekends

Average rent: $1,000 to $1,400 per month

Rayzor Ranch is one of the best places to live in Denton for students who want access to major stores, entertainment, and furnished apartments like Uptown Apartments and Gateway at Denton. Popular cafés and eateries include Starbucks, BJ’s Brewhouse, and Chipotle, perfect for study breaks or casual meals. Students often hang out at Rayzor Ranch Town Center, Liberty Park, and Denton Community Center for shopping, recreation, and events. The area hosts seasonal farmers’ markets, outdoor concerts, and community festivals. With excellent connectivity to UNT and plenty of student housing Denton TX options, Rayzor Ranch combines convenience, entertainment, and a lively student-friendly environment.

4. North Denton

Known for: Budget living
Things to Do: Parks, local shops
Pros: Affordable, peaceful
Cons: Farther from entertainment areas

Average rent: $800 to $1,100 per month

North Denton is among the most affordable places to live in Denton, ideal for students seeking budget-friendly housing. Popular cafés and eateries include Insomnia Coffee, Hickory Street Cafe, and El Chico for quick bites or casual study sessions. Students often hang out at North Lakes Park, Golden Triangle Mall, and Denton Public Library for recreation, group study, and leisure. The neighborhood also hosts local events such as community farmers’ markets, outdoor movie nights, and seasonal art fairs. With accessible student flats in Denton and easy connectivity to UNT, North Denton is a practical and student-friendly neighborhood.

5. Unicorn Lake

Known for: Lakeside apartments and dining
Things to Do: Lake walks, restaurants, fitness centers
Pros: Scenic, modern housing
Cons: Higher rent

Average rent: $1,000 to $1,500 per month

Unicorn Lake offers one of the most scenic lifestyles and is one of the best neighborhoods to live in Denton for students and professionals who enjoy peaceful living with access to modern amenities. Popular cafés and eateries include Brew & Co., Cup & Spoon Café, and Righteous Foods for casual meals and study sessions. Students often hang out at Unicorn Lake Park, Southridge Trail, and the nearby Shady Oaks Community Center for outdoor activities and group meetups. The area also hosts events such as seasonal lakeside concerts, community fitness classes, and weekend art markets. With modern student housing Denton TX, and nearby and quiet surroundings, Unicorn Lake combines convenience and serenity for student life.

6. Windsor Ridge

Known for: Suburban convenience
Things to Do: Community parks, retail stores
Pros: Safe, clean, great for students
Cons: Farther from UNT

Average rent: $1,000 to $1,400 per month

Windsor Ridge is considered one of the safest areas in Denton, popular among families and students who prefer quiet surroundings. The neighborhood features cosy cafés and eateries such as The Perch Café, Maple & Main, and Greenhouse Coffee for study sessions and casual meals. Students often hang out at Windsor Ridge Park, Windsor Trail, and the nearby Denton Public Library for outdoor activities, jogging, or group study sessions. The area also hosts seasonal farmers’ markets, community picnics, and outdoor movie nights, providing a calm yet engaging environment. With access to modern student flats in Denton, Windsor Ridge is ideal for those seeking safety and tranquillity.

7. Forrestridge

Known for: Green landscapes
Things To Do: Nature trails, suburban parks
Pros: Calm, beautiful homes
Cons: Requires a car

Average rent: $1,100 to $1,600 per month

Forrestridge is one of the good areas to live in Denton, known for spacious homes and scenic streets. While mainly residential, it’s ideal for students seeking comfort and quiet. Popular cafés and eateries nearby include Lenny’s Coffee Bar, Blue Door Café, and The Little Deli for study sessions or casual bites. Students often hang out at Forrestridge Park, Oakmont Trails, and the Denton Arboretum for outdoor activities, jogging, or group meetups. The neighborhood also hosts local community events, seasonal craft fairs, and outdoor movie nights, offering opportunities to socialize while enjoying a peaceful environment. With convenient access to student housing Denton TX, Forrestridge offers a perfect balance of comfort and calm.

8. The Colony (Near Denton)

Known for: Lake access and suburban living
Things To Do: Water activities, malls
Pros: Affordable, scenic
Cons: Requires commuting

Average rent: $950 to $1,300 per month

The Colony is one of the best places to live near Denton TX, offering lakeside living, parks, and great affordability. Many students choose this area to enjoy peaceful surroundings with easy access to Denton through short drives. Popular cafés and eateries include Café Milano, Lakeside Coffee Co., and The Colony Deli for casual meals and study sessions. Students often hang out at Stewart Creek Park, The Colony Performing Arts Center, and Lewisville Lake for outdoor activities, picnics, or weekend meetups. The neighborhood also hosts seasonal farmers’ markets, local music events, and community festivals, providing lively options for socializing while enjoying scenic, calm living. Student flats in Denton remain a popular choice here for those seeking affordable housing near the city.

9. Hickory Creek

Known for: Quiet suburban living
Things To Do: Hickory Creek parks, walking trails
Pros: Safe, family‑oriented
Cons: Limited nightlife

Average rent: $1,100 to $1,400 per month

Hickory Creek is considered one of the most peaceful places to live near Denton, with scenic views and access to Lake Lewisville. It’s ideal for students who prefer off‑campus calmness. Popular cafés and eateries include Brew & Bites Café, Lakeside Grill, and The Hickory House for casual meals and study‑friendly spots. Students often hang out at Hickory Creek Park, Lake Lewisville Marina, and the nearby walking and biking trails for outdoor activities, picnics, or weekend meetups. The area also hosts community events such as local craft fairs, outdoor movie nights, and seasonal lake festivals, offering opportunities to socialize in a relaxed environment. With access to student rentals, Hickory Creek offers quiet, scenic living while remaining within reasonable reach of Denton’s campus.

10. Corinth

Known for: Family‑friendly community
Things To Do: Local markets, parks
Pros: Safe, clean, good transport
Cons: Not as lively for students

Average rent: $1,000 to $1,500 per month

Corinth is another top pick among the best neighborhoods in Denton TX, especially for students and young professionals seeking comfort and safety. The area features popular cafés and eateries like Café Corinth, Lakeside Coffee Co., and Bella’s Bistro, perfect for study sessions or casual meals. Students often hang out at Corinth Community Park, Twin Creeks Golf Club, and nearby walking trails for recreation, group meetups, or outdoor activities. The neighborhood also hosts seasonal farmers’ markets, outdoor concerts, and local art fairs, keeping the community lively. Student apartments in Corinth come with modern amenities, making it an ideal choice for those who want safe, convenient, and well‑connected housing near Denton.

11. University Drive Area

Known for: Student convenience
Things To Do: Restaurants, fast food, campus access
Pros: Walkable, close to UNT
Cons: Busy during peak hours

Average rent: $950 to $1,300 per month

This area is one of the best neighborhoods to live in Denton for students because of its direct access to UNT and multiple student‑focused amenities. Popular cafés and eateries include The Greenhouse Coffee House, Mean-Eyed Cat Coffee, and LSA Burger Co., perfect for study sessions or quick bites. Students often hang out at UNT Union Plaza, Pecan Creek Trail, and the Campus Recreation & Wellness Center for group activities, sports, or social meetups. The neighborhood also hosts events like the UNT Homecoming, seasonal campus fairs, and local music nights, keeping student life active and engaging. Student housing Denton TX around this area offers furnished units, gyms, and communal lounges, making it convenient for academic and social life.

Popular student housing options like Viridian Denton and The Lorimer serve many residents here.

12. Cooper Creek

Known for: Residential comfort
Things To Do: Parks, schools, local eateries
Pros: Quiet, safe, affordable
Cons: Far from nightlife

Average rent: $900 to $1,250 per month

Cooper Creek is one of the good areas to live in Denton, especially for families and graduate students looking for a low-crime neighborhood. Popular cafés and eateries include Brew Coffee Bar, Chacho’s Tacos, and Crepez Café for quick bites and study‑friendly spots. Students often hang out at Cooper Creek Park, Oakmont Trail, and the nearby Denton Public Library for outdoor activities, jogging, or quiet study sessions. The neighborhood also hosts seasonal community events like outdoor movie nights, farmers’ markets, and local art fairs, providing social and recreational opportunities. With spacious apartments and townhomes, often with modern amenities like fitness centers and shared lounges, Cooper Creek offers comfortable student flats in Denton at reasonable rates.

13. Oak‑Hickory Historic District

Known for: Vintage homes + culture
Things To Do: Coffee shops, galleries, walking paths
Pros: Aesthetic, walkable
Cons: Limited parking

Average rent: $1,000 to $1,400 per month

This district is one of the most charming places to live in Denton, offering historic homes near the downtown area. Students love the artistic vibe and walkability. Popular cafés and eateries include LSA Burger Co., The Chestnut Tree, and Oak Street Coffee for study sessions and casual meals. Students often hang out at the Denton Square, Patterson‑Appleton Arts Center, and Quakertown Park, which provide spaces for socializing, outdoor activities, and local art events. The neighborhood hosts seasonal events like the Denton Arts & Jazz Festival, Downtown Denton Holiday Lighting, and pop-up craft markets. When it comes to staying, you’ll get housing options that include historic apartments, renovated homes, and loft-style flats, offering modern amenities while preserving the area’s unique charm.

14. Southeast Denton

Known for: Student affordability
Things To Do: Parks, community centers
Pros: Budget‑friendly, close to transit
Cons: Less modern than other areas

Average rent: $800 to $1,200 per month

Southeast Denton is a top choice among the best places to live in Denton Texas, especially for students seeking affordable rent and convenient access to campus. The area features popular cafés and eateries such as Texas Table, Sparrow Coffee, and El Ranchito for quick bites and study sessions. Students often hang out at Southeast Denton Park, Denton Civic Center, and local community centers for outdoor activities, group meetups, and seasonal events. The neighborhood also hosts local farmers’ markets, food truck rallies, and small festivals, making it lively yet budget‑friendly. Southeast Denton continues to be one of the best values among good areas to live in Denton.

Conclusion

Finding the best places to live in Denton Texas depends on your preferences. Whether you want to stay close to campus, pay affordable prices, or live in a quieter neighborhood. Areas around TWU and UNT offer a good mix of connectivity, convenience, and everyday essentials. Dento’s variety of neighborhoods makes it easy for students to find a place that suits their budget and lifestyle.

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