Is San Antonio Still Affordable Compared to Other Texas Metros?

San Antonio continues to hold its position as the most affordable major metro in Texas heading into 2026. While home prices across the state have risen over the past several years, San Antonio's median home price remains significantly lower than Austin, Dallas, and even Houston. For buyers relocating to Texas or comparing options within the state, Greater San Antonio—including Bexar County, Boerne, Schertz, Cibolo, and Helotes—offers a compelling combination of lower housing costs, reasonable cost of living, and strong quality of life factors that other Texas metros struggle to match.

Direct Answer: Yes, San Antonio remains the most affordable major metro in Texas. The median home price in San Antonio currently ranges between $297,000 and $315,000, compared to approximately $650,000 in Austin, $400,000 to $515,000 in Dallas, and $340,000 to $370,000 in Houston. San Antonio's overall cost of living sits approximately 9% below the national average, with housing costs about 21% lower than national norms.

Key Points at a Glance

• San Antonio's median home price is roughly half of Austin's and 25-30% below Dallas
• The American Enterprise Institute ranks San Antonio #12 nationally for first-time homebuyer affordability
• San Antonio's cost of living is approximately 9% below the U.S. average
• Housing in San Antonio is about 21% cheaper than national averages
• Rent in San Antonio averages $1,227-$1,288 per month for a one-bedroom, among the lowest in Texas
• Income required to afford a median-priced home is nearly $50,000 less than in Austin
• Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs also trend below state and national averages

How San Antonio Compares to Austin

The gap between San Antonio and Austin represents the starkest affordability difference among Texas metros. Austin's tech-driven economy fueled rapid price appreciation during the pandemic years, pushing median home prices above $650,000. While Austin has experienced price corrections—down approximately 18.6% from its May 2022 peak—it remains far more expensive than San Antonio.

To purchase a median-priced home in Austin, buyers need an annual household income of approximately $140,000 or more. In San Antonio, that figure drops to roughly $90,000. This $50,000 income difference means buyers who might be priced out of Austin can often afford more house—or a better neighborhood—in San Antonio.

Beyond purchase prices, Austin's rental market also runs significantly higher. The rent index in Austin exceeds San Antonio's by a substantial margin, meaning renters building savings for a down payment stretch their dollars further in the Alamo City.

For buyers considering both markets, the San Antonio Neighborhoods and Communities resource provides detailed information about specific areas that offer strong value and quality of life.

Quick Takeaway: San Antonio offers comparable amenities and job opportunities at roughly half the housing cost of Austin.

How San Antonio Compares to Dallas-Fort Worth

Dallas-Fort Worth represents Texas's largest metro by population and economic output, but that scale comes with higher housing costs. The median home price in the DFW metroplex sits around $400,000 to $515,000 depending on the specific area, with desirable suburbs often commanding premium prices.

Dallas has maintained stronger seller's market conditions than San Antonio, with faster sales and less negotiating room for buyers. The market action index in Dallas remains higher, indicating more competition for available homes.

San Antonio's price-per-square-foot advantage is particularly notable when comparing to Dallas. Buyers in San Antonio pay approximately $168 per square foot compared to $257 in Dallas. This means a 2,000-square-foot home that costs $336,000 in San Antonio would run approximately $514,000 in Dallas—a difference of nearly $180,000 for equivalent space.

Property taxes, while high across Texas, vary by county and municipality. Some San Antonio-area communities offer competitive tax rates compared to certain Dallas suburbs, though buyers should research specific locations carefully.

Quick Takeaway: San Antonio offers 25-30% lower home prices than Dallas with significantly more square footage per dollar.

How San Antonio Compares to Houston

Houston presents the closest affordability comparison to San Antonio among major Texas metros. With a median home price around $340,000 to $370,000, Houston falls between San Antonio and Dallas on the affordability spectrum.

Houston edges out San Antonio in price per square foot at $181 compared to $168, meaning San Antonio still delivers more space for the money. However, Houston's sheer size provides more inventory—over 40,000 active listings compared to approximately 8,400 in San Antonio—giving buyers more options across various price points and neighborhoods.

Both markets have seen inventory growth and longer days on market, creating more balanced conditions for buyers. San Antonio and Houston both average around 74-77 days on market, significantly longer than the frenzied pace of 2021-2022.

The key differentiator often comes down to employment, family proximity, and lifestyle preferences. Houston's economy centers on energy, healthcare, and shipping, while San Antonio's more diverse base includes military, healthcare, tourism, and growing technology sectors. For military families, San Antonio's Joint Base San Antonio installations create consistent housing demand and a large support community.

Quick Takeaway: Houston and San Antonio offer similar affordability, but San Antonio provides slightly lower prices and more space per dollar.

Cost of Living Beyond Housing

Housing represents the largest expense category, but San Antonio's affordability advantage extends to other areas of daily life. The city's overall cost of living sits approximately 9% below the national average and 4% below the Texas average.

Utilities in San Antonio run about 17-18% below national averages. Average monthly utility bills range between $142 and $169, providing meaningful savings compared to higher-cost metros. Texas summers drive air conditioning costs, but San Antonio's rates remain competitive.

Groceries cost approximately 6% less than the national average in San Antonio. Local sourcing and distribution efficiencies help keep food prices reasonable. Expect to pay around $4.43 for a gallon of milk and $3.36 for a dozen eggs—modest savings that accumulate over time.

Transportation costs, including gas prices and vehicle insurance, generally align with or fall below Texas averages. San Antonio's layout makes car ownership essential for most residents, but the absence of toll roads common in Austin and Dallas provides additional savings for commuters.

Healthcare represents one area where San Antonio costs run slightly higher than national averages—approximately 11-18% above. Buyers should factor insurance costs and out-of-pocket expenses into their overall budget calculations.

Quick Takeaway: San Antonio's affordability extends beyond housing to utilities, groceries, and transportation, though healthcare costs run slightly higher.

What Drives San Antonio's Affordability

Understanding why San Antonio remains affordable helps buyers assess whether these conditions are likely to persist. Several structural factors contribute to the city's relative value.

San Antonio's economy has historically been more blue-collar and diverse than Austin's tech-heavy concentration. This diversification creates steady, sustainable growth rather than boom-bust cycles driven by a single industry. The military presence at Joint Base San Antonio provides consistent employment and housing demand that doesn't fluctuate with market trends.

Geographic factors also play a role. San Antonio has room to expand, and new construction in surrounding counties like Comal, Guadalupe, and Kendall helps moderate price pressure by adding inventory. Austin's geographic constraints and stricter development regulations have contributed to its supply shortages and higher prices.

Population growth in San Antonio, while strong, has been more measured than Austin's explosive expansion. This controlled growth allows infrastructure and housing supply to keep pace better than in metros experiencing rapid influxes.

Finally, San Antonio's cultural identity differs from Austin's. The city attracts residents seeking affordability and quality of life rather than those chasing tech industry opportunities at any cost. This self-selection helps maintain the affordability culture that defines the market.

Quick Takeaway: San Antonio's diverse economy, available land for expansion, and measured growth patterns support continued affordability compared to other Texas metros.

Affordability Trends and What's Changed

San Antonio's affordability advantage is real, but it's important to acknowledge that the gap has narrowed somewhat over the past five years. Home prices in San Antonio have increased approximately 15% since 2019, and the income required to afford a median-priced home has risen about 43% when accounting for both price appreciation and higher mortgage rates.

During 2020-2022, San Antonio experienced the same competitive conditions affecting markets nationwide. Bidding wars, cash offers from out-of-state buyers, and rapid price increases characterized those years. Many buyers who purchased at peak prices in 2021-2022 now hold mortgages on homes worth less than they paid.

The market has since shifted toward more balanced conditions. Inventory has grown substantially, sellers are negotiating, and prices have softened modestly in many areas. This correction has actually reinforced San Antonio's affordability advantage as higher-priced metros like Austin have seen steeper declines.

For buyers entering the market now, conditions are more favorable than they were two or three years ago. More choices, less competition, and greater negotiating leverage characterize today's environment across Greater San Antonio.

For those beginning the homebuying journey, the Deciding to Buy a Home in San Antonio guide walks through the key factors to consider when evaluating readiness.

Quick Takeaway: While San Antonio prices have risen, the city has maintained its affordability advantage as other Texas metros experienced even larger increases and subsequent corrections.

"I cannot recommend Tami Price highly enough! From the very beginning of my home-buying journey, Tami went above and beyond to ensure I found the perfect home. Her dedication, attention to detail, and genuine passion for helping her clients truly set her apart. Tami took the time to understand exactly what I was looking for—not just in terms of budget and location, but also my personal preferences, lifestyle, and long-term goals. As active duty military, I had to travel from out of town to view houses on a limited schedule. She ensured that we made the most of my time while I was there and even when I wasn't. Her market knowledge was invaluable, and she always provided thoughtful insights about each property, neighborhood, and potential. What impressed me most was how committed Tami was to ensuring I was comfortable and confident every step of the way. She was always available to answer my questions, no matter how small, and kept me informed about every detail of the process. Her communication skills are unmatched; I never felt out of the loop. When it came time to negotiate, Tami was an absolute advocate for me. She ensured I got the best possible deal while keeping the process smooth and stress-free. Even after the closing, she continued to follow up to make sure everything was in order and that I was settling in comfortably. Tami's dedication, expertise, and genuine care made what could have been a stressful process into an enjoyable and exciting experience. If you're looking for a realtor who will go the extra mile to help you find your dream home, Tami Price is the one you want in your corner. Thank you, Tami, for everything—you're truly the best!" — Madalyn P.

Questions Buyers Often Ask About San Antonio Affordability

Q: Will San Antonio stay affordable as more people move here?

A: San Antonio's affordability depends on several factors, including housing supply, job growth, and economic conditions. The region's ability to add new construction in surrounding counties helps moderate price pressure. While no one can guarantee future affordability, San Antonio's structural advantages—diverse economy, available land, measured growth—support continued relative value compared to other Texas metros.

Q: Where are the most affordable neighborhoods in Greater San Antonio?

A: Affordability varies significantly by location. Areas on the South Side, East Side, and in surrounding communities like Converse offer lower entry points. Suburbs in Guadalupe County, including parts of Schertz and Cibolo, provide newer homes at competitive prices. The tradeoff often involves commute times, school districts, and access to amenities.

Q: How do property taxes affect affordability comparisons?

A: Texas property taxes are among the highest in the nation, which affects total housing costs regardless of purchase price. Rates vary by county, city, and school district. Some San Antonio-area communities have lower rates than certain Austin or Dallas suburbs, but buyers should research specific locations. Property taxes on a $300,000 home can range from $6,000 to $9,000+ annually depending on location.

Q: Is it better to buy in San Antonio now or wait for prices to drop further?

A: San Antonio prices have already softened from their 2022 peaks, and current conditions offer more inventory and negotiating room than buyers had during the competitive years. Waiting carries costs including rent payments and potential price recovery if rates drop and competition increases. Most buyers benefit from purchasing when they're financially ready rather than timing the market.

Q: How does San Antonio's job market compare to Austin and Dallas?

A: San Antonio's economy is more diverse but generally offers lower average wages than Austin's tech-heavy market or Dallas's corporate concentration. However, the lower cost of living means take-home pay stretches further. Military employment, healthcare, tourism, and a growing cybersecurity sector provide stable opportunities without the volatility of tech-dependent economies.

Common Misconceptions About Texas Affordability

Many buyers assume all Texas cities offer similar affordability because the state has no income tax. In reality, costs vary dramatically across metros. San Antonio's housing costs are roughly half of Austin's despite being just 80 miles apart.

Another misconception is that the lack of state income tax makes Texas universally affordable. While the absence of income tax helps, Texas compensates with higher property taxes and sales taxes. Buyers should calculate their total tax burden based on home value and spending patterns rather than assuming blanket savings.

Some buyers also believe that affordable markets necessarily mean lower quality of life or fewer amenities. San Antonio offers world-class attractions including the River Walk, diverse dining, professional sports, and excellent healthcare facilities. The city's cultural heritage and natural surroundings in the Hill Country provide lifestyle benefits that rival more expensive metros.

Finally, there's a perception that affordable markets won't appreciate. San Antonio has demonstrated consistent long-term appreciation while remaining relatively affordable. The city's steady growth pattern may produce smaller annual gains than volatile markets like Austin, but it also provides more stability and predictability.

Important Considerations for Relocating Buyers

Buyers relocating from other states often find San Antonio's affordability striking compared to California, the Northeast, or other high-cost regions. The ability to purchase a larger home, in a better neighborhood, for significantly less money attracts transplants from across the country.

However, relocating buyers should understand Texas-specific factors that affect total housing costs. Property taxes will likely be higher than what you're accustomed to if coming from a state with lower property tax rates. Homeowners insurance, particularly wind and hail coverage, adds to monthly expenses. HOA fees in master-planned communities can run several hundred dollars monthly.

For military families receiving PCS orders to Joint Base San Antonio, the affordability advantage is particularly significant. BAH (Basic Allowance for Housing) rates for the San Antonio area often cover mortgage payments comfortably, unlike high-cost installations where service members must supplement housing costs from base pay. The Military Relocation resource provides specific guidance for PCS moves.

Climate considerations also matter. San Antonio summers are hot, driving air conditioning costs from May through September. Buyers from cooler climates should budget for higher utility bills during summer months, though overall utility costs still run below national averages.

"If you are military and are moving to the SATX area, you need to get with Tami. From the moment that my wife and I decided to select Tami as our Realtor, Tami from the start was very transparent in ensuring what to expect from her and her team. Tami throughout the entire process was readily available to provide responses to our questions and ensure we understand the whole process especially since my wife and I were first time buyers. We had the opportunity to visit SATX and see some homes with Tami for a few days and from arrival we hit the ground running. Tami was educating us on things to look for and be aware of. Her guidance allowed us to select the home we ended up closing on and she was there to complete some of the milestones for us up till closing due to being in another state. Tami is very professional as a veteran herself understands what military moves bring, and even after closing has been readily available to assist us in preparing for the move. You won't go wrong with Tami in your corner." — Efrain G.

FAQ

Q: What is the median home price in San Antonio compared to other Texas metros?

A: San Antonio's median home price currently ranges from $297,000 to $315,000. Austin's median exceeds $650,000, Dallas ranges from $400,000 to $515,000, and Houston falls between $340,000 and $370,000. San Antonio offers the lowest entry point among major Texas metros.

Q: How much income do I need to afford a home in San Antonio?

A: Based on current median prices and mortgage rates, buyers typically need an annual household income of approximately $86,000 to $90,000 to afford a median-priced San Antonio home. This compares to roughly $140,000 needed in Austin and $114,000 in Dallas.

Q: Is San Antonio's rental market also more affordable?

A: Yes. San Antonio rent for a one-bedroom apartment averages $1,227-$1,288 per month, among the lowest in major Texas cities. Austin, Dallas, and Houston all have higher average rents. San Antonio ranks as the second least expensive major U.S. city for rent behind only Tucson, Arizona.

Q: Are there affordable neighborhoods with good schools in San Antonio?

A: Yes. Areas like Schertz, Cibolo, and parts of far North San Antonio offer access to well-regarded school districts at price points below the city median. Buyers prioritizing schools should research specific districts and attendance zones, as quality varies significantly across the region.

Q: How does San Antonio's appreciation potential compare to other Texas metros?

A: San Antonio typically experiences steadier, more moderate appreciation compared to volatile markets like Austin. While annual gains may be smaller, the stability reduces risk of significant value loss during market corrections. Long-term appreciation in San Antonio has been consistent, supported by population growth and economic diversity.

The Bottom Line

San Antonio remains the most affordable major metro in Texas, offering median home prices roughly half of Austin's and 25-30% below Dallas. The city's diverse economy, available land for expansion, and measured population growth support continued relative affordability even as prices have risen from pre-pandemic levels.

For buyers comparing Texas metros, San Antonio delivers strong value across multiple categories: lower home prices, reasonable rent, below-average utility and grocery costs, and quality-of-life amenities that rival more expensive cities. Military families, first-time buyers, and those relocating from high-cost states find particularly compelling opportunities in Greater San Antonio.

Current market conditions—improved inventory, negotiable sellers, and balanced competition—make this a favorable time to explore what San Antonio offers compared to other Texas options.

Ready to Explore San Antonio's Value?

Understanding how San Antonio's affordability translates to your specific budget and goals starts with a conversation about your priorities, timeline, and target areas. Whether you're relocating from another state, comparing Texas metros, or simply exploring whether now is the right time to buy, getting accurate local information helps you make confident decisions.

Tami Price brings nearly two decades of experience helping buyers discover the value Greater San Antonio offers. With over 600 five-star reviews and recommendations across multiple platforms—and as a veteran herself—she understands the unique needs of military families, relocating buyers, and first-time purchasers navigating this market.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Contact Tami

Tami Price, REALTOR®, Broker Associate
📞 210 620 6681
✉️ tami@tamiprice.com
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Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and reflects general market conditions across Texas metros at the time of writing. Home prices, cost of living figures, and market conditions change frequently and vary by specific location, property type, and time of purchase. Always verify current data and consult with a licensed real estate professional before making any real estate decision.