Considering a move to San Antonio? Soldier Strong Moving is here to provide you with a guide to living in one of Texas’s most iconic cities. Known for its culture, rich history, and warm community, San Antonio offers economic opportunity, affordable living, and diverse lifestyle choices. Whether you’re moving for work, family, or a change of pace, this guide will help you understand everything you need to know about living in this remarkable city.
Overview of San Antonio
San Antonio is the second-largest city in Texas after Houston and the seventh-largest city in the United States, with a population of approximately 1.5 million. From the historic Alamo to the scenic River Walk, the city’s attractions offer something for everyone. Add to that the sports scene, headlined by the NBA’s San Antonio Spurs, and you have a city full of energy and spirit.
The Cost of Living in San Antonio
San Antonio is known for its relatively low cost of living, especially compared to other major Texas cities like Austin and Dallas. The city offers affordable housing options, with a median home price significantly lower than the national average. Renters will also find that San Antonio is a cost-effective place to live.
One significant advantage of living in San Antonio, and Texas in general, is the lack of state income tax. This can translate into substantial savings, particularly for higher earners, giving you more disposable income to enjoy the city’s offerings.
The Weather in San Antonio
San Antonio is known for its hot summers and mild winters. The summer heat can be intense, with temperatures often reaching the 90s and even creeping into the 100s during July and August. Air conditioning is essential for surviving the sweltering summer months.
If you enjoy milder weather, the winters will be a welcome relief. From December to February, temperatures typically stay well above freezing, allowing you to navigate the colder months with a light jacket. The mild climate makes outdoor activities enjoyable year-round.
It’s a Military Town
San Antonio is known as “Military City, USA,” due to its deep connection to the U.S. military. The city is home to Joint Base San Antonio (JBSA), one of the largest military installations in the country. JBSA includes four major locations: Fort Sam Houston, Lackland Air Force Base, Randolph Air Force Base, and Camp Bullis.
These bases contribute to the city’s economy and shape its culture. San Antonio embraces its military heritage with numerous events, museums, and memorials dedicated to honoring servicemen and women. Whether you are a military family moving to the area or just interested in the city’s military history, San Antonio offers a welcoming community.
Getting Around San Antonio
One of the first things you’ll want to consider when moving to San Antonio is how you’ll get around the city. San Antonio is a sprawling city, so having a car is the most convenient option for most residents. Several major highways, including I-10 and I-35, serve and connect San Antonio to other Texas cities.
Fortunately, the city’s traffic offers less congestion than other large cities in Texas. Commuters can generally expect moderate traffic, though there are peak congestion times in the morning and evening.
Public Transportation
For those who prefer public transportation, VIA Metropolitan Transit provides bus service throughout the city, including downtown, suburban neighborhoods, and nearby attractions. While the public transit system is not as extensive as in some other major cities, it is a good option for those who live near the downtown area or don’t mind a bit of planning.
Walking and Biking
San Antonio has made strides in becoming more walkable and bike-friendly, particularly in downtown, Southtown, and the Pearl District. The city offers a bike-sharing program called B-Cycle, with over 60 stations throughout the central city. Biking is a great way to explore the scenic River Walk or take in the sights of the historic districts.
Neighborhoods in San Antonio
San Antonio is a city of diverse neighborhoods, each with its own unique personality. Whether you’re looking for historic charm, family-friendly communities, or luxury living, San Antonio has a neighborhood for you.
Downtown
For young professionals and those who love being at the center of the action, downtown San Antonio is the place to be. It has top attractions like the River Walk, historic sites, restaurants, and live entertainment. The downtown area is bustling with energy, offering a perfect balance of work and play.
Monte Vista
In the Midtown area, Monte Vista is one of San Antonio’s most affluent and historic neighborhoods. With its tree-lined streets and beautiful homes featuring diverse architectural styles such as Tudor, Spanish Eclectic, and Italian Renaissance, Monte Vista is a picturesque place to live. The neighborhood is well-loved for its historic charm and strong sense of community.
Alamo Heights
Alamo Heights is a small, family-oriented enclave surrounded by the city of San Antonio. It is a popular choice for families and is known for its highly-rated schools and low crime rate. Despite its reputation as an upscale neighborhood, Alamo Heights offers affordable rental options, making it accessible to many residents.
Stone Oak
For those seeking a more suburban lifestyle, Stone Oak is a master-planned community in the Far North Central area of San Antonio. This luxurious neighborhood has sprawling homes, gated communities, and upscale amenities. Stone Oak is popular among families and professionals looking for a balance of convenience, comfort, and security.
The Job Market in San Antonio
San Antonio has a diverse and thriving economy that offers opportunities across various industries. While tourism plays a significant role in the local economy, the city’s job market extends far beyond hospitality.
San Antonio is known for its strong presence in healthcare, military, government, professional services, and energy industries. The city has a growing tech sector, with companies like Rackspace and USAA headquartered in the region. Manufacturing is also a significant part of the economy, particularly in the automotive and aerospace sectors.
The biosciences industry is one of the largest employers in the city, with the South Texas Medical Center being the hub of medical research and healthcare employment. More than 100,000 people are employed in biosciences, making it a key sector for job growth.
San Antonio is home to four Fortune 500 companies, including Valero Energy, NuStar Energy, and CST Brands. These companies provide numerous employment opportunities, particularly in energy and corporate services. Additionally, the city’s concentration of military bases contributes to the economy by providing jobs in defense contracting and military support services.
Education in San Antonio
San Antonio offers many educational opportunities, from public and private K-12 to higher education institutions.
Public and Private Schools
The city is served by multiple public school districts, including the San Antonio Independent School District (SAISD) and North East Independent School District (NEISD). These districts include several top-rated schools, particularly in neighborhoods like Alamo Heights and Stone Oak.
Numerous options are available for families seeking private education, including prestigious institutions like Keystone School and San Antonio Academy.
Higher Education
San Antonio is home to several universities and colleges, including the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA), which offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs. Trinity University, a private liberal arts college, is also located in the city and is known for its strong academic programs and small class sizes.
San Antonio Entertainment and Lifestyle
San Antonio offers entertainment options, whether you prefer outdoor activities, cultural experiences, or nightlife.
Outdoor Life
San Antonio is an ideal city for outdoor enthusiasts with its mild winters and pleasant spring and fall weather. The city boasts several parks, including the expansive Brackenridge Park (home to the San Antonio Zoo), picnic areas, and hiking trails. San Antonio also has easy access to the Texas Hill Country, offering opportunities for camping, hiking, and scenic drives.
The River Walk
The River Walk is one of San Antonio’s most famous attractions. It winds along the San Antonio River through the heart of downtown. Lined with shops, restaurants, and hotels, the River Walk is a popular destination for tourists and locals. It also serves as the home of many of the city’s festivals and events.
Cultural Events
San Antonio has a rich cultural scene, with events and festivals celebrating the city’s Hispanic heritage, arts, and music. The annual Fiesta San Antonio is one of the city’s biggest events, featuring parades, concerts, and cultural celebrations. The San Antonio Museum of Art and the Witte Museum are popular attractions for art and history lovers.
Nightlife
San Antonio offers many nightlife options, from laid-back bars and pubs to lively dance clubs and live music venues. Areas like the Pearl District and Southtown are known for their trendy bars and restaurants, offering something for everyone, whether looking for a quiet night out or a lively party atmosphere.
Moving to San Antonio
Moving to San Antonio is an exciting opportunity to join a dynamic and welcoming community. Whether you’re drawn to the city for its job opportunities, cultural attractions, or beautiful neighborhoods, Soldier Strong Moving is here to help make your transition as smooth as possible. With years of experience helping families and individuals move across Texas, we’re proud to offer top-tier moving services tailored to your needs.
Ready to Make the Move?
San Antonio awaits with its warm climate, thriving economy, and rich history. The city has something for everyone, including you! Let Soldier Strong Moving help you settle into your new home and discover the endless possibilities of San Antonio. Contact us today for your free moving estimate and begin your new adventure in San Antonio!
