{"id":1806,"date":"2023-03-01T16:22:00","date_gmt":"2023-03-01T16:22:00","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/ssdcmoving.local\/?p=1806"},"modified":"2026-03-24T16:38:45","modified_gmt":"2026-03-24T16:38:45","slug":"20-things-to-know-before-moving-to-san-antonio","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.selfstorage.com\/blog\/20-things-to-know-before-moving-to-san-antonio\/","title":{"rendered":"Moving to San Antonio"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

San Antonio has a few nicknames, including River City, Alamo City, and, of course, Military City USA due to its having the highest concentration of military bases in the U.S.<\/a>, including Joint Base San Antonio. But one of our favorite nicknames from Visit San Antonio is “the city of authenticity,” due to the area’s natural wonders, rich history, and great experiences reflecting centuries of Spanish settlement and Southern hospitality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Not only is the city full of diverse culture, beauty, and great eats, including Tex-Mex cuisine, it’s also the most affordable major city center<\/a> in Texas. To top it off, despite being the second most populous city in the Lone Star state, it’s considered a safe, family-friendly metropolitan area with plenty of neighborhoods that give off a more suburban or small-town vibe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It’s no surprise that Zillow recently named the city one of the hottest real estate markets<\/a> in the U.S.! This relocation guide will help you navigate your move.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Graphics<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

A Confluence of Cultures in a City of Hidden Gems<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

There’s more to the city than its stunning River Walk and the Alamo\u2014site of the Battle of the Alamo at Mission San Antonio de Valero\u2014although those are both worth a visit and a stroll!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Brimming with diverse cultures and influence from Spanish settlement, Mexican, Tejano, Irish, German, and Czechoslovakian traditions, and more, the city celebrates what makes its people different while also bringing them together. Living here means becoming part of a melting pot and experiencing Southern hospitality, whether it’s celebrating Native American culture during the Yanaguana Indian Arts Festival, visiting the Spanish Frontier Missions at San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, supporting multicultural communities through DreamWeek, or enjoying Tex-Mex cuisine at the Guenther House Museum.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The city is also home to some lesser-known activities that you’ll want to get to know once you’re a resident. Enjoy the Japanese Tea Gardens, catch a San Antonio Missions game at Wolff Stadium, visit the McNay Art Museum, or picnic in one of the city’s many parks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Increasing Opportunities in a Thriving Job Market<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With the number of visitors coming into the city, it’s no surprise that the tourism and hospitality industry is going strong here. You’ll also find plenty of opportunities among the bioscience, renewable energy, and manufacturing industries, with companies such as Southwest Research Institute, Valero Energy Corp., and Toyota throughout the metro area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Being part of a military region<\/a>, other large employers in and around the city at Joint Base San Antonio include Lackland Air Force Base, Fort Sam Houston, Camp Bullis, and Randolph Air Force Base.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As of January 2023, the unemployment rate had dropped to just 3.3 percent<\/a>, a tie for its lowest rate since 2020.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Enjoy Big City Life at a Lower Cost<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

If you’re looking for big-city opportunities without having to spend big bucks, moving here could be the right choice\u2014and this relocation guide will show you how. The city’s cost of living falls about 10 percent below the U.S. national average and about 5 percent below the Texas state average.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Incomes here have been trending upward, with 2022 marking a significant jump<\/a> for the area median income. The median household income for a two-person household was $66,800 last year. And remember: Texas is one of the few states without income tax.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Although the housing market has been trending upward, the city is still experiencing a buyer’s market as of December 2022<\/a>, with competitive property taxes. The median home listing was $299,000, less than what you’re likely to find in Houston<\/a> or Dallas<\/a>, and property taxes remain lower than in many neighboring cities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As of the start of 2023, rent here is also trending lower than national averages. The median rent<\/a> is just $1,052 for a one-bedroom apartment and $1,300 for a two-bedroom. These numbers do reflect a year-over-year increase of 4.1, but December 2022 saw a dip in rent prices, meaning this trend may be changing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Great Neighborhoods for Families, Professionals, and Retirees<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Living near the Riverwalk is great, but San Antonio is made up of eclectic neighborhoods, each full of plenty to do. Check out these highly recommended neighborhoods for those relocating here, as featured in this relocation guide:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

ALTA VISTA<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

As one of the older neighborhoods in San Antonio, this well-kept gem is protected as a Neighborhood Conservation District. You won’t find much nightlife, but you’ll enjoy the San Pedro Playhouse and plenty of neighborhood events, like PorchFEST, Neighborhood Night Out, and potluck picnics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

TOBIN HILL<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Young couples and professionals will love this neighborhood for its fun, diverse community. There is plenty to do between weekend farmers’ markets, outdoor concerts, boutiques, eclectic eateries, and a plethora of pubs and breweries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

ALAMO HEIGHTS<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

This unique, family-friendly neighborhood appeals to parents, retirees<\/a>, and young professionals alike. Alamo Heights is located only five miles outside of downtown, where you’ll enjoy a dense suburban feel with a variety of restaurants serving Tex-Mex cuisine, the zoo, and the botanical garden all nearby. Alamo Heights residents enjoy excellent schools and Southern hospitality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

TERRELL HILLS<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

This historic, safe neighborhood is full of bars, restaurants, coffee shops, boutiques, and parks. Whether you’re moving with your family, to grow your career, or to retire, this could be the neighborhood for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

OAKLAND ESTATES<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

With a mix of suburban and urban living and above-average schools, Oakland Estates is considered one of the best places to live in the city. With plenty of entertainment and great restaurants, it’s no wonder that families, professionals, and retirees love it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

STONE OAK<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Upscale master-planned community in northern San Antonio with shopping, dining, and family-friendly amenities. Stone Oak<\/strong> offers newer construction and excellent schools.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

KING WILLIAM DISTRICT<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Historic King William<\/strong> neighborhood south of downtown featuring Victorian-era homes, the King William<\/strong> Fair, and walkable streets lined with cafes and galleries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Other neighborhoods to include in your San Antonio home search:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n