Pros and Cons of Living in Selma, TX

Selma, Texas, is a small town located just northeast of San Antonio. It is known for its affordable cost of living, sparse suburban feel, and abundance of parks.

The population of Selma is around 11,000, and it is considered a great place to live for families and young professionals.

Like any other city, Selma has its pros and cons. One of the biggest advantages of living in Selma is its low cost of living. According to AreaVibes, everyday expenses like housing, groceries, and utilities are far below the national average.

This makes it an attractive option for people who want to save money without sacrificing quality of life. Additionally, Selma is located near several major highways, making it easy to commute to and from work.

However, there are also some downsides to living in Selma. One of the biggest complaints from residents is the lack of entertainment options. While there are several parks and outdoor spaces, there are few options for nightlife or cultural activities.

Additionally, the town can feel somewhat isolated, as it is located outside of San Antonio and does not have many neighboring towns or cities. Despite these drawbacks, Selma remains a popular choice for people who want to live in a small town with a low cost of living.

Geographical Location

Climate

Selma, TX experiences a humid subtropical climate. The summers are long, hot, and humid, while the winters are short and mild. The average temperature in Selma, TX ranges from 50°F to 95°F.

The city receives an average of 35 inches of rain per year, with the highest precipitation occurring in May and September. The humidity level in Selma, TX is relatively high, which can make the hot summer months feel even more uncomfortable.

Proximity to Major Cities

Selma, TX is located just 20 miles northeast of San Antonio, which is the seventh most populous city in the United States. This proximity allows residents of Selma, TX to have easy access to the amenities of a big city, including world-class dining, shopping, and entertainment. Additionally, Austin, the capital of Texas, is just 80 miles to the north of Selma, TX. This makes it easy for residents to take a day trip to the state capital.

Natural Environment

Selma, TX is located in the Texas Hill Country, which is known for its rolling hills, scenic vistas, and natural beauty.

The city is surrounded by several state parks, including Guadalupe River State Park and Government Canyon State Natural Area. These parks offer residents of Selma, TX the opportunity to hike, fish, camp, and enjoy the great outdoors.

The city is also located near several rivers, including the Guadalupe River and the San Antonio River, which provide opportunities for water-based activities such as tubing, kayaking, and fishing.

Economic Factors

Cost of Living

Selma, TX has a moderate cost of living compared to the national average. According to Dwellics, the cost of living in Selma is 3% higher than the Texas average, but 1% lower than the national average.

Housing prices in Selma are higher than the Texas average, but still lower than the national average.

The median home price in Selma is $223,000, while the median rent is $1,200.

Employment Opportunities

Selma, TX has a low unemployment rate of 2.8%, which is lower than the national average of 3.7%. The AreaVibes livability score for Selma’s employment is an A, indicating a stable job market.

The largest industries in Selma are retail, healthcare, and manufacturing. Major employers in Selma include Retama Park, Amazon, and The Forum at Olympia Parkway.

Local Economy

The local economy in Selma is driven by retail and hospitality. The city is home to several shopping centers, including The Forum at Olympia Parkway and The Village at Forum Parkway.

The Forum at Olympia Parkway is the largest shopping center in Selma, with over 1 million square feet of retail space. The city also has several hotels and restaurants that cater to tourists and visitors.

The local government is focused on attracting new businesses to the area and expanding the city’s tax base. Overall, the economy in Selma is stable and growing, with a low unemployment rate and a strong retail sector.

Housing Market

Selma, TX is a growing city with a strong housing market. In March 2024, the median home price in Selma was $325,000, up 9.1% from the previous year Redfin.

Homes in Selma typically sell after 74 days on the market, compared to 54 days the previous year. There were 9 homes sold in March 2024, up from 8 last year.

Real Estate Prices

Real estate prices in Selma are relatively high, but they have been steadily increasing over the past few years.

The city’s growth and development have led to an increase in demand for housing, which has driven up prices. However, Selma is still more affordable than many other cities in the area, such as San Antonio.

Rental Market

The rental market in Selma is also strong, with a variety of options available for renters. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Selma is around $1,000 per month, while a two-bedroom apartment typically rents for around $1,300 per month Zillow. However, rental prices can vary depending on the location, size, and amenities of the property.

Neighborhoods

Selma has a variety of neighborhoods to choose from, each with its own unique character and amenities. Some of the most popular neighborhoods in Selma include Retama Springs, Selma Park Estates, and Creekside Ridge. These neighborhoods offer a mix of single-family homes, townhomes, and apartments, with prices ranging from affordable to high-end.

Overall, the housing market in Selma is strong and offers a variety of options for both buyers and renters. While prices may be higher than in some other areas, the city’s growth and development make it a promising investment for those looking to purchase a home or invest in real estate.

Quality of Life

Living in Selma, TX provides a high quality of life for its residents. The city has a well-developed education system, healthcare services, and recreational activities.

Education System

The education system in Selma, TX is highly regarded. The city is served by the Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City Independent School District, which has a rating of 8 out of 10 on GreatSchools.org. The district has 17 schools, including 11 elementary schools, four middle schools, and two high schools. The district provides a quality education to students, with a focus on academic excellence and student success.

Healthcare Services

Residents of Selma, TX have access to quality healthcare services. The city is located near several hospitals, including the Northeast Methodist Hospital, the Methodist Stone Oak Hospital, and the Baptist Emergency Hospital. These hospitals provide a range of medical services, including emergency care, surgery, and outpatient services. The city also has several clinics and medical offices, providing residents with easy access to healthcare services.

Recreational Activities

Selma, TX offers a variety of recreational activities for residents to enjoy. The city has several parks, including the Davenport Park and the Stage Stop Park, which offer playgrounds, picnic areas, and walking trails. The city also has a community center, which offers classes and programs for residents of all ages. In addition, the city is located near several golf courses, including the Olympia Hills Golf Course and the Northern Hills Golf Club, providing residents with plenty of opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities.

Overall, Selma, TX provides a high quality of life for its residents, with a well-developed education system, quality healthcare services, and a variety of recreational activities.

Safety and Crime

Selma, TX is considered a relatively safe place to live. The crime rate is below the national average, making it an attractive option for families and individuals who prioritize safety. However, like any other city, Selma is not immune to crime. Therefore, it is essential to consider the pros and cons of living in Selma, TX, regarding safety and crime.

Crime Rates

According to NeighborhoodScout, the chances of being a victim of violent crime in Selma are 1 in 469, while the chances of being a victim of property crime are 1 in 36. These crime rates are lower than the national average, making Selma a relatively safe city to live in.

Law Enforcement

Selma has an excellent law enforcement system, with the Selma Police Department ensuring the safety of residents and visitors. The police department comprises 21 sworn officers and six civilian employees, who work together to maintain law and order in the city.

The department’s proactive approach to community policing has been instrumental in reducing crime rates in the city.

In conclusion, while Selma, TX, has a lower crime rate than the national average, it is not immune to crime.

However, the city’s excellent law enforcement system and proactive approach to community policing make it a relatively safe place to live.

Community and Culture

Demographics

Selma, TX is a small city located in Bexar County with a population of approximately 11,000 people. According to AreaVibes, the median age in Selma is 33.7, which is slightly younger than the national average of 37.4.

The city has a diverse population with a mix of ethnicities, including White, Hispanic, African American, and Asian.

Cultural Events

Selma is a city that values its community and culture, and as such, it offers a variety of cultural events throughout the year. One of the most popular events is the annual Country Comes to Town Festival held each October. This festival celebrates the city’s heritage and culture with live music, food, and games.

In addition to the Country Comes to Town Festival, Selma hosts other events throughout the year, such as the Selma Stage Stop Market Days, which is a monthly outdoor market featuring local vendors and artisans. The city also has a Christmas parade and tree lighting ceremony, which is a beloved tradition for many residents.

Sense of Community

Selma has a strong sense of community, which is evident in its many community events and initiatives. The city has a community center that offers a variety of programs and activities for residents of all ages, including fitness classes, arts and crafts, and educational workshops.

The city also has an active Parks and Recreation department, which maintains several parks and green spaces throughout the city.

These parks offer residents a place to relax, play, and connect with nature.

Overall, Selma is a city that values its community and culture, and it offers residents a variety of opportunities to get involved and connect with others.

Transportation and Accessibility

Public Transportation

Selma has a limited public transportation system. The VIA Metropolitan Transit offers bus services in Selma, but the routes are limited and not as frequent as in bigger cities.

However, VIA does provide a convenient way to travel to San Antonio and other nearby cities. The VIA Primo bus service, for example, provides a direct connection between Selma and downtown San Antonio. The VIA bus system also offers discounts for seniors, disabled individuals, and students.

Traffic Conditions

Traffic in Selma is generally manageable, but it can get congested during rush hour. The main road in Selma, Interstate 35, is a major highway that connects the city to San Antonio and other nearby cities. During peak hours, traffic on I-35 can be heavy, especially near the intersections with Loop 1604 and FM 3009.

However, the city has made improvements to the road network in recent years, such as the widening of FM 1518 and the construction of a new overpass at I-35 and FM 3009, which have helped to alleviate some of the traffic congestion.

Walkability

Selma is a car-dependent city, and most errands require a car. The city has a few sidewalks, but they are not well-connected, making it difficult to walk or bike around the city. However, the city is working to improve its walkability by adding more sidewalks and bike lanes to its road network.

The city’s Parks and Recreation Department also offers a trail system that connects several parks in the city, providing a safe and scenic route for walking, jogging, and biking.

Overall, while Selma’s public transportation system is limited, the city’s traffic conditions are manageable, and the city is working to improve its walkability.

Potential Drawbacks

While Selma, TX has many advantages, there are also some potential drawbacks to living in the area that should be considered.

Limited Nightlife

One of the potential drawbacks of living in Selma, TX is the limited nightlife. The town is relatively small and does not have a wide variety of entertainment options. While there are a few local bars and restaurants, those looking for a bustling nightlife scene may be disappointed. Residents looking for more excitement may need to travel to nearby cities such as San Antonio for more options.

Seasonal Allergies

Another potential drawback of living in Selma, TX is the prevalence of seasonal allergies. The area is known for its high pollen count, which can cause discomfort for those with allergies. Residents may need to take extra precautions during allergy season, such as regularly cleaning their homes and taking allergy medication.

Public Transportation Limitations

Finally, Selma, TX has some limitations when it comes to public transportation. While there are a few bus routes that serve the area, the town is primarily designed for automobile transportation. This may be inconvenient for those who do not own a car or prefer to use public transportation. Additionally, traffic can be heavy during peak hours, which can add time to commutes.

Overall, while Selma, TX has many advantages, potential residents should consider these potential drawbacks before making a decision to move to the area.

Living in Selma, TX has its advantages and disadvantages. The city offers a sparse suburban feel and plenty of parks for outdoor activities. The cost of living in Selma is relatively low, which is a plus for families and young professionals looking for affordable housing and everyday expenses. Selma also has a great location being just east of San Antonio, providing easy access to the city’s amenities and attractions.

On the other hand, Selma does have its downsides. The city’s crime rate is higher than the national average, which is a concern for those looking for a safe community. Additionally, the city’s property taxes are relatively high, with an average effective rate of 1.69%, which can be a financial burden for homeowners.

Overall, Selma, TX is a great place to live for those looking for a suburban feel with easy access to a major city. Its low cost of living and abundance of parks make it an attractive option for families and young professionals. However, those concerned about safety and high property taxes may want to consider other options.