So many people are relocating to San Antonio that it was among the top five fastest-growing cities in the country in 2018-19. With thousands of people migrating to the home of the Alamo each year, is moving to San Antonio for you? Here are some reasons why a move to San Antonio, Texas may be right for you:
The housing market is affordable
It’s very affordable to buy a home in one of the best neighborhoods in San Antonio. Unless you’re downtown, it’s relatively easy and very affordable to buy in most areas. However, if you’re looking to buy, don’t wait too long. The median home price in the San Antonio market has been on a steady incline over the past few years.
The median home price is $176.000, which is 29% below the national average. Also, more than half the homes listed in San Antonio were priced under $200,000 during this period. According to the San Antonio Board of Realtors market report for August 2019, the average sales price rose 4% year over year to $277,114, while the median sales price rose 3% to $238,400.
Lower income taxes help with cost of living
San Antonio residents get to enjoy a cost of living that is slightly below the national average. This savings is due in part to lower housing costs as well as no state income tax.
Before you move to San Antonio thinking you’re free from taxes, remember that there are higher sales and property taxes. Expect to pay approximately 8.25% for sales tax and 2% for property tax. While that may seem like a lot, it is still less than states like New York.
How does the San Antonio cost of living compare to other major Texas cities? San Antonio is 13.3% less expensive than Dallas, with the median home cost 22% more expensive in Dallas. Housing, transportation, and utility costs make up for most of the spending gap.
Jobs in San Antonio are easy to find
San Antonio has an unemployment rate below the national average and the state average. This thriving city saw job growth of about 3% from 2016 to 2017 (approximately 30,000 more jobs added), which is higher than other Texas cities. For Millennials looking for a job and affordable housing, San Antonio is a great option.
The Alamo city maintains a significant military presence and caters to their success through various health, schooling, and work programs. Many active and retired military personnel make their home at and around the Joint Base San Antonio, providing jobs throughout Fort Sam Houston, Randolph Air Force Base, and Lackland Air Force Base.Other industries of note are manufacturing, renewable energy, bioscience, healthcare, and education. What does San Antonio have that other Texas cities don’t? Being a tourist destination creates thousands of more tourism and leisure jobs here.
Living in San Antonio can be very relaxing
Sports fans, nature lovers and families will love living in San Antonio. With nearby amusement parks, the San Antonio Zoo, LEGOLAND Discovery Center and the beautiful parks you will have plenty of fun options to choose from. While summers in San Antonio tend to be hot, the winter weather is mild, and springs can be wet with frequent rains.San Antonio offers amazing outdoor and cultural experiences including:
The River Walk: The San Antonio River has been at the heart of San Antonio for hundreds of years. Take a stroll for free down the expansive 30-mile river walk to enjoy fine dining, scenic boat rides, and plenty of outdoor activities. Spend approximately $12 for a water taxi to see as much of the River Walk as possible before you pick a destination to relax.
Eisenhower Park: Bring your family, dog, or just a pair of jogging shoes to Eisenhower Park. This family-friendly destination is as ideal for children as it is for an active individual looking for a hiking workout. The park is located north of the city and acts as a quiet rural escape.
Fiesta San Antonio: Fiesta is an annual seven-day event that started in 1891 to promote a safe, educational, annual celebration of diverse heritage, culture and the spirit of San Antonio for its residents and visitors. You’ll enjoy seven exciting days of music, food, and Mexican arts and culture. Don’t miss the Battle of Flowers Parade that is produced entirely by women.
Your kids can learn Spanish at a young age
One of San Antonio’s premier school districts, Northside ISD, offers students a Two-Way Dual Language Immersion program that promotes bilingual and bicultural education in both English and Spanish. There are also private institutions and school districts in outlying areas that offer families options to fit their needs.
The food is delicious
Texans take their Mexican food and margaritas seriously. In San Antonio, like other parts of Texas, you can expect to find some the best Tex-Mex, Mexican and Texas-style barbecue you’ve ever had! San Antonio has been synonymous with authentic Tex-Mex and margaritas. You can still find that here, but the local food scene has evolved over the past few years. Today, you’ll find a wide range of cuisines and some truly creative food offerings.
