The Cost of Living in San Antonio TX: 2025 Guide

by Tami Price

Are you curious how much it really costs to live in San Antonio in 2025? Understanding the cost of living in San Antonio, TX helps both buyers and sellers make smart decisions. In this guide, Tami Price and the Tami Price Properties Group break down expenses, reveal trends, and offer practical tips, positioning you to thrive in the local real estate market.

Overview: How Affordable Is San Antonio?

Overall cost of living: Roughly 9% below the U.S. average and 3–4% below the Texas average, according to Payscale and Wan Bridge .
Cost of living index: Around 91.3, meaning expenses are about 8.7% lower than national trends.
Net purchasing power: A $100K salary in San Antonio equals about $86K elsewhere, thanks to no state income tax.

Cost of Living Breakdown

1. Housing

Median home price: Approximately $255K–$280K, far below the U.S. median (~$338K).
Housing cost vs. U.S.: ~21% cheaper according to payscale.com.
Median rent: Ranges from $924–$1,811/month, with typical one-bedroom rents around $1,227–1,250.
What this means: Less money spent on housing frees up budget for improvements, savings, or lifestyle.

2. Utilities

Electricity/water: ~17–18% below national average; expect $165–180/month for utilities in a mid-sized home.
Apartment utilities: ~$70–120/month.

3. Food & Groceries

Grocery costs: Around 5–11% cheaper than national average milk ~$4.40, bread ~$3.70, eggs ~$3.30.
Dining out: Affordable with a movie ticket at $12.40 and burgers around $5–6.

4. Transportation

Gas and transit: ~6% cheaper than national average; gas around $3.06–3.18/gallon.
Monthly commute cost: ~$1,173 for retirees or $814 for families, averaging moderate to low.

5. Healthcare

Costs slightly higher: ~7–17% above national average; doctor visit ~$150, dentist ~$125–139.
While slightly more expensive, healthcare remains competitive overall.

6. Goods & Services

Clothing: Men’s shirt ~$40; women’s slacks ~$42.
Entertainment & services: Haircuts ~$28, yoga ~$17, dry cleaning ~$18.
Relative cost: ~5–6% below national averages .

7. Summary Tables

Category	San Antonio Cost vs. U.S.
Housing	~21% less
Utilities	~17–18% less
Transportation	~6% less
Groceries	~5–11% less
Healthcare	~7–17% higher
Overall cost	~9% less

What to Expect in San Antonio

Single adult budget: ~~$2,658–3,567/month (~~$42,800 annually).
Family of four: ~~$4,080–4,687/month (~~$49K–$56K/year).
SmartAsset insight: To live comfortably, one adult needs ~$86,700/year; family of four around $199K combined.

Tips for Finding Affordable Housing

Buy sooner: Home prices have risen ~5% year-over-year; buying now can save money.
Consider affordable corridors: Look near newer developments outside downtown or in Inner Loop suburbs.
Factor in utilities & HOA fees: Especially for condos, these add $150–500/month to expenses.
Explore assistance programs: City efforts to convert motels into affordable housing may offer opportunities.

Why This Matters to Home Sellers

Price smartly: Buyers are attracted to the city’s affordability, highlight this in listings.
Compare to other markets: Show that San Antonio offers lower cost of living than Austin, Dallas, or Houston.
Budget transparency: Homebuyers appreciate clear info on expected monthly expenses.
Community selling point: “Live well for less” messaging works, especially for retirees and growing families.

Why Work with Tami Price Properties Group

Local market insight: We know where housing meets affordability trends.
Targeted buyer marketing: Emphasize cost benefits of San Antonio living in every listing.
Finance and budgeting guidance: Our team works alongside mortgage pros to forecast true cost of ownership.
Negotiation edge: Knowledge of cost fundamentals helps position your home effectively.

Final Takeaways

San Antonio offers a truly livable, affordable lifestyle in 2025:

Home prices ~20% lower than national average
Utilities ~17% cheaper
Overall cost of living ~9% less
No state income tax enhances buying power

These factors make it a standout option and an appealing market for sellers to highlight.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is San Antonio still affordable in 2025 compared to other Texas cities?
A: Yes. San Antonio remains one of the most affordable major cities in Texas. According to current estimates, housing, utilities, and everyday goods are generally less expensive than in Austin, Dallas, or Houston. The cost of living is roughly 9 percent lower than the national average, which continues to attract homebuyers and investors.

Q: What’s the average home price in San Antonio in 2025?
A: The median home price in San Antonio ranges from $255,000 to $280,000, depending on location, home type, and condition. This is well below the national average, offering buyers more value for their money in terms of space and amenities.

Q: How much income is needed to live comfortably in San Antonio?
A: A single adult needs approximately $52,000 to $86,700 per year to live comfortably, depending on lifestyle choices. A family of four may need a combined household income of around $150,000 to $199,000 to maintain a comfortable standard of living based on SmartAsset’s 50/30/20 budget rule.

Q: Are utilities expensive in San Antonio?
A: No. Utility costs in San Antonio are generally 17 to 18 percent lower than the national average. The average utility bill for a mid-sized home is about $165 to $180 per month, which includes electricity, water, and trash services.

Q: What are typical rental prices in San Antonio in 2025?
A: Rent for a one-bedroom apartment averages between $1,227 and $1,250 per month. A two-bedroom apartment ranges from $1,400 to $1,800, depending on the neighborhood and amenities. These rental rates are still considered affordable compared to other large cities in Texas.

Q: How do healthcare costs compare to the national average?
A: Healthcare costs in San Antonio tend to be 7 to 17 percent higher than the national average. While doctor visits and specialist care may be more expensive, overall affordability in other categories helps balance out total expenses.

Q: Is San Antonio a good city for retirees on a fixed income?
A: Absolutely. With no state income tax, lower housing costs, and relatively affordable groceries and transportation, San Antonio offers retirees a budget-friendly lifestyle. Many areas are walkable or have access to public transportation, reducing transportation expenses.

Q: What are the biggest contributors to the cost of living in San Antonio?
A: Housing is typically the largest expense for most residents, followed by healthcare and transportation. However, San Antonio’s housing and utility costs remain below the national average, making it easier for families and individuals to maintain financial stability.

Q: Why is understanding the cost of living important for home sellers?
A: Sellers who understand the affordability advantage of San Antonio can better position their homes to attract buyers moving from more expensive markets. Highlighting lower utility bills, no state income tax, and reasonable property taxes can be persuasive selling points in your listing strategy.

Q: Who can help me evaluate my home’s value in today’s San Antonio market?
A: Tami Price and the Tami Price Properties Group are experienced San Antonio real estate professionals who specialize in helping homeowners price, market, and sell their homes effectively. Contact the team for a personalized consultation.