Introduction 

H-E-B is expanding again—this time deepening its presence in the heart of Central Texas. The Texas-based grocery chain has officially broken ground on a $30 million, 118,945-square-foot store in San Marcos, located off I-35 and McCarty Lane. 

Expected to open in late 2026, this new store will include a True Texas BBQ restaurant, curbside and delivery services, a fuel station, and a car wash—making it one of the most feature-rich H-E-B locations in the region. 

For San Marcos, this will be the third H-E-B store, a clear reflection of the city’s explosive population growth and its growing role as a key midpoint between Austin and San Antonio. 

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Why San Marcos? A Growth Corridor in Motion 

Strategically positioned between two major metros, San Marcos has become one of the fastest-growing cities in the nation. Its unique mix of college-town energy, expanding neighborhoods, and business investment has created surging demand for both housing and retail. 

Several factors make San Marcos ideal for large-scale retail expansion: 

• Rapid population growth fueled by students, families, and commuters. 

• Affordable housing options compared to Austin and San Antonio suburbs. 

• Prime location along I-35, offering high visibility and easy access. 

• A strong local economy anchored by education, logistics, and retail. 

By breaking ground on this new site, H-E-B is reinforcing its long-term commitment to the region and signaling continued confidence in the city’s housing and economic trajectory. 

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Real Estate Implications: When H-E-B Builds, Growth Follows 

According to Tami Price, Realtor in San Antonio, H-E-B’s expansion strategy consistently aligns with strong population and housing trends. 

“When H-E-B builds, people follow,” says Price. “A new H-E-B means rooftops are coming—and that means higher home values. It’s one of the clearest signals of community growth in Central Texas.” 

For real estate professionals, that pattern is easy to trace: H-E-B stores often precede or accompany new subdivisions, increased development activity, and rising home values. Their presence acts as both a community amenity and an economic anchor, driving sustained residential demand. 

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For Homeowners 

• Expect appreciation as property values near the new H-E-B trend upward over the next few years. 

• Enhanced convenience and quality of life features—like BBQ dining, fuel, and curbside services—will improve overall neighborhood desirability. 

• The new store will serve as a lifestyle hub, further integrating retail and community space into San Marcos’ growth corridor. 

For Buyers 

• Buying near new H-E-B developments has historically proven a strong investment strategy, with values rising as surrounding infrastructure and amenities develop. 

• Families and professionals favor neighborhoods with major retail access, ensuring long-term market appeal. 

• Early buyers in subdivisions near McCarty Lane or I-35 may benefit most as prices rise alongside area development. 

For Sellers 

• Sellers can use the phrase “near the new H-E-B” as a powerful listing feature, especially for buyers prioritizing location convenience and retail access. 

• Homes near the project site are likely to attract increased buyer traffic and shorter Days on Market (DOM) as the opening date approaches. 

• Marketing materials that highlight walkability, family amenities, and retail proximity will resonate strongly with relocating buyers. 

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Broader Growth Trends in Central Texas 

The Austin–San Antonio corridor remains one of the most rapidly expanding regions in the United States. San Marcos sits squarely in the middle of this boom, benefitting from: 

• Major highway infrastructure connecting commuters to both cities. 

• Steady job creation through logistics, tech, and education sectors. 

• Ongoing commercial investment as retailers follow rooftops. 

Retail expansions like H-E-B’s are more than just convenience plays—they’re economic confidence indicators. They signal that the region’s population growth is both sustainable and profitable for future development. 

For investors, this translates into lasting stability and a strong return outlook for both residential and mixed-use holdings in the corridor. 

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Economic Impact 

The new H-E-B will bring approximately 450 new jobs to the community, contributing to both short-term construction activity and long-term employment opportunities. Beyond groceries, H-E-B’s on-site True Texas BBQ restaurant and fuel center create local gathering spaces that further integrate the store into the neighborhood fabric. 

Such multi-service retail centers help anchor communities by offering essential services, food, and social spaces—key factors that sustain nearby housing demand and strengthen civic engagement. 

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Practical Takeaways 

• Buyers: Explore neighborhoods along I-35 near McCarty Lane for early equity growth opportunities. 

• Sellers: Highlight proximity to the new H-E-B as a major selling advantage in marketing and listing descriptions. 

• Investors: Monitor rental housing demand near San Marcos, as student, family, and commuter populations remain strong year-round. 

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Conclusion 

H-E-B’s $30 million investment in San Marcos is far more than a grocery expansion—it’s a sign of enduring community growth, population stability, and retail confidence in Central Texas. 

With BBQ dining, curbside pickup, fuel, and a car wash all in one location, this store will serve as both a neighborhood anchor and a lifestyle destination. For homeowners, buyers, and investors, it’s another strong indicator that San Marcos’ housing market is poised for continued success through 2026 and beyond. 

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When will the new H-E-B open? 
A: The store is expected to open in late 2026. 

Q: Where is it located? 
A: The site is located off I-35 and McCarty Lane in San Marcos, Texas. 

Q: What features will it have? 
A: Amenities include a True Texas BBQ restaurant, curbside and delivery services, a fuel station, and a car wash. 

Q: Why does H-E-B matter for real estate? 
A: New H-E-B developments typically precede population growth and property appreciation, boosting neighborhood desirability. 

Q: How many jobs will it bring? 
A: Approximately 450 new positions are expected, supporting both local employment and community growth. 

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Interested in exploring real estate opportunities in San Marcos or the I-35 growth corridor? Contact Tami Price, Realtor, for expert guidance.