Moving to San Antonio? What to Consider, Cost of Living & Best Neighborhoods

Thinking about moving to San Antonio? Whether you’re drawn in by the food, the River Walk, or the job market, there’s a lot to consider before making the jump. Let’s break it all down so you can settle in like a true San Antonian!

San Antonio boasts a rich history, vibrant culture, and a flourishing economy, making it a city where tradition intertwines with contemporary development. As the 7th largest city in the U.S., San Antonio offers a unique experience that appeals to many. Whether you’re moving for career opportunities, educational pursuits, or simply seeking a new adventure, here’s what you should consider when choosing the Alamo City as your next home.

What to Know Before Moving to San Antonio

The Weather: Bring the Sunscreen (and Maybe an Extra Fan)

San Antonio is hot. We’re talking triple-digit summer temperatures that make you question why you ever left air conditioning. But, on the bright side, winters are mild—no snow, no heavy coats, just the occasional cold front that gives you an excuse to wear a sweater for a day. If you love sunshine, outdoor patios, and year-round flip-flop weather, you’re in the right place. Just make sure your new home has solid A/C!

Explore the Outdoors: Green Spaces in San Antonio

San Antonio also boasts fantastic green spaces, including the sprawling Brackenridge Park and the scenic trails along the Mission Reach. A highlight of the area is the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which features beautifully preserved missions that provide a glimpse into the area’s rich history. Whether you’re into hiking, biking, jogging along the River Walk, or exploring the cultural heritage of the missions, there’s plenty of outdoor space to enjoy and discover.

Job Market: Big Opportunities in Military, Healthcare, and Tech

San Antonio is an economic powerhouse. With a strong military presence (thanks to Fort Sam, Lackland Air Force Base, and Joint Base San Antonio), a booming healthcare industry (University Health, Methodist, and Baptist Health Systems), and a growing tech scene, there are plenty of opportunities. With the nickname “Military City,” San Antonio offers excellent job prospects for both active-duty service members and veterans. Plus, the cost of living is lower than the national average, making it an attractive place for remote workers and entrepreneurs.

Education: Colleges & Universities in San Antonio

San Antonio is also home to several higher education institutions, including San Antonio College and Trinity University, which provide a strong talent pipeline for local industries. The city also offers excellent private schools, making it a great place for families looking for quality education options.

Traffic & Transportation: You’ll Probably Need a Car

San Antonio is a driver’s city. While there is public transportation (VIA Metropolitan Transit), most locals rely on their cars. The good news? Gas is relatively cheap. The bad news? Rush hour on I-10 and Loop 1604 can be rough. If you want to avoid traffic, consider living close to work or choosing a neighborhood with good walkability. Transportation costs here are relatively low compared to other major cities, especially if you live in a neighborhood with easy access to your daily needs. However, if you rely on public transit, be prepared for longer commute times.

Culture & Entertainment: More Than Just the Alamo

Yes, we all remember the Alamo—but there’s so much more to San Antonio. For newcomers, we’ve curated a list of things to do. The Pearl District is a foodie’s paradise with top-tier restaurants and weekend farmers markets. King William is a charming historic district with gorgeous Victorian homes and trendy cafes. Fiesta, the annual 10-day citywide celebration, is basically Mardi Gras meets Texas pride (get ready for colorful medals and lots of tacos). And if you love basketball, the San Antonio Spurs have a special place in every local’s heart.

Cost of Living: How Much Will You Need?

The cost of living can play a crucial role in shaping your financial circumstances and lifestyle decisions. Overall, San Antonio offers a more budget-friendly environment compared to many other expensive cities. Here are some key insights:

Housing: Affordable Compared to Other Texas Cities

San Antonio is a steal compared to Austin, Dallas, or Houston. The median home price is lower than the national average (average housing cost in San Antonio is $290,000, according to Realtor.com), and the average rent is relatively affordable depending on where you live. You can find a decent one-bedroom apartment for around $1,200, but if you want something in trendier areas like The Pearl or Alamo Heights, expect to pay a bit more. If you’re looking for a high-quality Landing furnished apartment, the average cost for a 12-month stay is around $1,750. If you’re looking to stay on a month-to-month basis, the monthly rent is around $1,950. If you want to get a clearer picture of what you’ll need, a cost of living calculator or cost of living index can help compare expenses to your current city.

Groceries & Dining: Tex-Mex on Every Corner

H-E-B is the undisputed king of grocery stores, and once you experience it, you’ll never look at other grocery chains the same way. Eating out is also budget-friendly—tacos are basically their own food group, and you can grab a solid meal for under $10 at places like The Original Donut Shop or Taqueria Datapoint. Food costs overall remain relatively affordable compared to cities like San Francisco, but it depends on your dining preferences.

Utilities and Transportation: Prepare for High Summer Bills

Electricity bills can skyrocket in the summer because of the A/C, but overall, utilities are reasonable. As for transportation, if you have a car, gas prices are usually lower than the national average. If you don’t, be prepared to Uber or get familiar with VIA’s bus system.

Entertainment Costs & Income Tax: More Savings in Texas

One major perk of living in San Antonio is that Texas has no state income tax, meaning you get to keep more of your paycheck. While entertainment costs can vary depending on your lifestyle, you’ll find plenty of budget-friendly and free activities throughout the city. Whether you’re catching a show at the Tobin Center in Tobin Hill or exploring the city’s many historic districts, you don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy San Antonio.

Best Neighborhoods in San Antonio

San Antonio is full of neighborhoods with their own personalities—some historic, some hip, and some that just feel like home. Whether you want tree-lined streets, killer tacos within walking distance, or a front-row seat to the best Fiesta parties, here’s the lowdown on the best locations to live in SA:

Alamo Heights: The Classic & Classy

Alamo Heights is where you’ll find old-money charm, top-notch schools, and homes that make you say, “Wow, I should have married rich.” It’s got Central Market (because H-E-B, but fancier), The Quarry for shopping, and The Twig Book Shop for that indie bookstore aesthetic. Plus, it’s 10 minutes from downtown but feels like its own little world.

Olmos Park: The Bougie Hideaway

If Alamo Heights had a cool, slightly edgier cousin, it would be Olmos Park. This neighborhood has some of the most beautiful homes in the city, tons of trees, and a small-town feel right in the middle of SA. Grab a latte at Revolución Coffee, take a sunset walk through Olmos Basin Park, and pretend you’re in a Nancy Meyers movie.

Stone Oak: Suburban Bliss, With a Side of Traffic

Up in the Northside, Stone Oak is where you move when you want great schools, gated communities, and every chain restaurant imaginable within a five-minute drive. It’s super family-friendly and has some gorgeous parks, but fair warning—1604 traffic will test your patience and your will to live.

Southtown (SoFlo): Artsy, Funky, and Full of Life

If you love art galleries, craft beer, and old-school vibes, SoFlo is where it’s at. Plus, King William is just right next door. This area is home to First Friday (aka an excuse to drink while pretending you appreciate modern art), the Blue Star Arts Complex, and some of the best tacos in the city. It’s got historic homes, converted lofts, and plenty of spots to sip a margarita under twinkle lights.

The Pearl District: The “I’m Trendy” Neighborhood

Once an old brewery, now a hotspot for foodies, weekend brunch warriors, and people who own at least one expensive houseplant. The Pearl has some of the best restaurants in the city (Cured, Southerleigh, The Boiler House), plus a gorgeous riverside walking trail, a farmers’ market, and Hotel Emma for when your out-of-town friends need a cool place to crash.

Tobin Hill: The Life of the Party

Tobin Hill blends history with modern apartments and vibrant nightlife. The monthly rent for one-bedroom apartments averages around $1,500 and for two-bedroom apartments around $2,300. Located north of downtown near the St. Mary’s Strip, it offers live music, craft cocktails, and late-night tacos within walking distance. The neighborhood has an artsy vibe with trendy coffee shops and brunch spots for a recovery with live tunes. With quick access to downtown and The Pearl, Tobin Hill is perfect for those seeking walkability, culture, and an energetic social scene.

Government Hill: The Historic Hotspot

Sitting right by Fort Sam Houston, this neighborhood is a mix of old-school San Antonio and new development. Average rent is around $1,900. Government Hill has been on the come-up with cool coffee shops, historic homes, and easy access to downtown. It’s the kind of place where you’ll see someone walking their dog in front of a century-old house while another person renovates a bungalow into something straight off HGTV.

Midtown: Close to Everything, Without the Chaos

Midtown is where you live if you want to be near downtown but not paying downtown rent. You’ve got fun bars like The Modernist (hidden but SO worth it), chill neighborhoods like Alta Vista, and spots like San Pedro Springs Park—the second-oldest park in the U.S.! Plus, it’s just a quick Uber to the St. Mary’s Strip when you’re feeling social.

Westside: Culture, History, and the Best Tacos in Town

If you want authentic San Antonio culture, the Westside is where it’s at. You’ve got incredible murals, historic neighborhoods, and taco trucks that will change your life. It’s not as polished as other areas, but the sense of community here is unbeatable. Plus, it’s home to some of the best pan dulce in the city (shoutout to Culebra Meat Market).

Westover Hills: Quiet, Scenic, and Surprisingly Fancy

This area is growing fast, and for good reason. It’s peaceful, full of new developments, and has easy access to SeaWorld (so, if you love roller coasters or dolphin shows, bonus points). It’s got plenty of nice homes, great golf courses, and more space than you’ll find closer to downtown.

King William: Historic Charm with an Artsy Twist

King William is San Antonio’s most picturesque neighborhood, with stunning 19th-century mansions, tree-lined streets, and a creative energy that keeps it fresh. King William became San Antonio’s first designated historic district in 1968. Sitting along the San Antonio River, it’s perfect for strolling to Blue Star Arts Complex, grabbing coffee at Estate, or ending the night with margaritas at Rosario’s. Whether you’re into historic charm, art walks, or just a beautiful place to call home, King William has it all.

Terrell Hills: Quiet, Elegant, and Effortlessly Cool

Terrell Hills is a little slice of suburban paradise just minutes from downtown, with beautiful tree-lined streets, sprawling historic homes, and a relaxed, upscale vibe. It’s close to Fort Sam Houston, making it a favorite for military families, and has easy access to Alamo Heights’ top-notch schools, The Quarry, and Central Market.

Downtown San Antonio: Where History Meets Hustle

Downtown San Antonio is the heart and soul of the city. From the iconic Alamo to the San Antonio River Walk, you’re surrounded by rich heritage and vibrant energy. There’s always something to do in Downtown San Antonio, whether it’s enjoying a meal at Boudro’s on the river, catching a show at The Majestic Theatre, or sipping a cocktail at one of the trendy rooftop bars. It’s a place where locals and tourists blend, making it the ultimate spot for those who want to be at the center of it all.

Final Thoughts: Is San Antonio Right for You?

If you’re looking for a city with rich history, incredible food, and an affordable cost of living, San Antonio is a fantastic place to call home. The quality of life here is high, with great job opportunities, plenty of green space, and a community-driven atmosphere. Whether you’re drawn in by the job market, the friendly locals, or just the promise of endless tacos, you’ll find plenty to love here. And if you’re looking for an easy way to settle in without the hassle of furniture shopping and leases, Landing has you covered. With fully furnished apartments and flexible terms, you can move in stress-free and start enjoying San Antonio right away!