San Antonio Real Estate FAQ

Yes, San Antonio home prices are significantly lower than Austin - often 30-40% less for comparable homes. Property tax rates are similar, but lower home prices mean lower absolute tax bills. Many buyers priced out of Austin find excellent value in San Antonio while still accessing Central Texas Hill Country living.

San Antonio's median home price is typically $280,000-$320,000, well below Austin ($450K+) and Dallas ($400K+). First-time buyers can find starter homes under $250,000 in many areas, making homeownership more accessible.

San Antonio has maintained affordability due to abundant land for development, steady (not explosive) growth, and a diversified economy. The military presence provides stable but not high-income employment. Unlike Austin, there's no tech salary inflation driving prices.

San Antonio is known as "Military City USA" with multiple bases including Lackland AFB, Fort Sam Houston, and Randolph AFB. The city is extremely military-friendly with excellent VA services, military-focused real estate agents, and communities experienced with PCS moves. Explore San Antonio

VA loans allow eligible veterans and active military to purchase with zero down payment and no PMI. San Antonio sellers are familiar with VA loans and generally accept them readily. The VA funding fee can be financed into the loan. VA loans work well for San Antonio's affordable price points.

Near Lackland AFB: Sea World area, Helotes, West SA. Near Fort Sam Houston: Alamo Heights, Terrell Hills, Northeast SA. Near Randolph AFB: Converse, Live Oak, Schertz. Each area offers different price points and amenities.

Top-rated districts include North East ISD (NEISD - consistently among Texas's best large districts), Northside ISD, Alamo Heights ISD (most prestigious), and Boerne ISD (northern suburbs with Hill Country setting).

Top family neighborhoods include Stone Oak (NEISD), Alamo Ranch (Northside ISD), Alamo Heights (Alamo Heights ISD), The Dominion (luxury gated), and Boerne area for Hill Country living with excellent schools.

San Antonio property taxes range from 2-2.5% depending on location. Bexar County, your school district, and other entities combine for total rates. Lower home prices mean lower absolute tax bills compared to Austin despite similar percentage rates.

CPS Energy is San Antonio's municipal utility providing electricity and natural gas. As a city-owned utility, rates are generally reasonable. Summer AC costs can be high due to heat, but overall utility costs are competitive with other Texas cities.

San Antonio offers solid rental yields due to affordable purchase prices. The military bases ensure steady rental demand. Growth is steady rather than explosive, meaning less volatility. Cash flow opportunities are often better than Austin. Read our Investment Guide

Yes, San Antonio is one of America's fastest-growing large cities. Population growth is driven by affordability, job opportunities in healthcare/tech/military, and proximity to Austin. The I-35 corridor between San Antonio and Austin is developing rapidly.