Renters insurance in Texas averaged about $199 a year in 2022, roughly $17 a month and the 7th most expensive in the country (NAIC data via the Insurance Information Institute). Texas prices run high because of hail, windstorms, hurricanes and freezes, which also makes coverage especially valuable here.
How much is renters insurance in Texas?
| Area | Average yearly premium (2022) |
|---|---|
| Texas | $199 |
| Oklahoma | $216 |
| Louisiana | $243 |
| New Mexico | $177 |
| Arkansas | $205 |
| U.S. average | $171 |
Coastal areas and hail-prone regions usually pay more. See every state’s average.
Is renters insurance required in Texas?
No Texas law requires it, but many Texas apartment complexes require renters insurance in the lease, often with a minimum liability limit. Some offer their own program and add a charge to your rent if you don’t show proof of your own policy, so compare that price with buying your own. What landlords can require.
Texas risks and what renters insurance covers
Hail and windstorms
Wind and hail are generally covered perils on standard renters policies. If hail breaks windows and rain soaks your belongings, your policy pays for your things; your landlord’s policy covers the building.
Hurricanes on the Gulf Coast
Hurricane wind damage is usually covered, but some policies in coastal areas exclude wind and hail or apply a separate, higher deductible. In the 14 first-tier coastal counties and parts of Harris County, the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association (TWIA) provides wind and hail coverage when it isn’t available from private insurers. TWIA covers wind and hail only.
Flooding
Flood is excluded from standard renters policies, and Texas has seen devastating floods, from hurricane storm surge to flash floods inland. Renters can buy contents-only flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or private insurers. NFIP policies generally take 30 days to take effect, so don’t wait for a storm forecast.
Freezes and burst pipes
Winter storms can freeze pipes across the state. Sudden water damage to your belongings from a burst pipe is generally covered, and loss-of-use coverage may help if your unit becomes unlivable. How water damage coverage works.
Power outages
Food spoiled during a power outage may be covered only in limited circumstances, depending on your policy and the cause of the outage. Check your policy’s wording.
Houston, Dallas, Austin and San Antonio renters
- Houston: flood and hurricane risk make flood coverage and a clear understanding of your wind deductible essential.
- Dallas–Fort Worth: one of the country’s hail hotspots; storms can break windows and let water in.
- Austin and San Antonio: flash flooding in low-lying areas; freeze risk in winter.
How to save on renters insurance in Texas
- Compare your complex’s insurance program against at least two outside quotes.
- Bundle with your auto policy.
- Check the wind and hail deductible, not just the premium.
- Choose a deductible you can afford after a storm.
Source for average premiums: NAIC 2022 data via the Insurance Information Institute. Insurance prices change every year, so get current quotes for your address.
New to this? Start with What is renters insurance?
This site offers general information, not insurance or legal advice. Coverage, prices and rules vary by insurer, policy and state, so always read your own policy and ask your insurer or agent about your situation.