Cost of Living in San antonio, TX
San antonio cost of living index: 83.88 (below the US average). Median home price: $272,500.
Updated 2026 • Based on 58 local zip codes
📍 Some data sourced from nearby metro area
% below the national average
Housing
Data from 58 zip codes
Housing costs in San antonio, TX based on real market data from 58 local zip codes.
Considering a move to San antonio, TX? With a housing index of 76.56, this area offers a more affordable cost of living compared to the national average. The median home price is set at 272499.5, which is quite reasonable for new homeowners. If renting is your preference, expect to pay around 14874.43 for a 2-bedroom apartment or for a 2-bedroom house, reflecting a balanced housing market. Furthermore, the neighborhood may offer various amenities and community features that can enhance your lifestyle, making it a compelling choice.
Last updated: January 2026
Utilities
The cost of utilities such as electricity, natural gas, and other services can significantly impact the overall cost of living.
Living in San antonio, TX could entail variable utility costs. Electricity costs sit at $14.47, while natural gas is priced at $26.29 per Thousand Cubic Feet. Expect to budget about $200.0 monthly for other services like water and garbage.
Cost Breakdown by Category
Local Income & Economy in San antonio, TX
How far does your money go in San antonio? Understanding the relationship between income and cost of living is key to evaluating affordability.
How We Calculate Adjusted Purchasing Power in San antonio
The adjusted purchasing power shows what a San antonio, TX household income is actually worth after accounting for local prices. We calculate it using the formula: Purchasing Power = Median Income ÷ Cost of Living Index × 100
For San antonio, that's $59,593 ÷ 83.88 × 100 = $71,046. This means a household earning the median income in San antonio has the equivalent buying power of $71,046 in a city where the cost of living index equals the national baseline of 100.
San antonio is well below the national cost of living average at 83.88, making it one of the more affordable places to live in TX. The median income of $59,593 has an effective purchasing power of $71,046 — a meaningful boost that allows residents to save more, invest in real estate, or enjoy a higher standard of living compared to expensive metro areas.
Combined with a low poverty rate of 15% and healthy job market (4.1% unemployment), San antonio offers strong value for families, investors, and anyone looking to relocate to a city where income goes further.
💡 Purchasing power is calculated by dividing the local median household income by the cost of living index and multiplying by 100. A result higher than the nominal income means your money goes further; a lower result means local prices erode your earnings. The US baseline cost of living index is 100.
Pros & Cons of Living in San antonio
Pros
- • Friendly community vibe
- • Good schools available
- • Mild winters, warm summers
- • Rich history and attractions
- • Diverse cultural festivals
- • Plenty of outdoor activities
- • Vibrant nightlife options
- • Affordable cost of living
- • Family-friendly activities
- • Job market is improving
Cons
- • Economic inequality noticeable
- • Air quality concerns
- • Traffic congestion issues
- • High summer temperatures
- • Limited public transportation
- • Political tension exists
- • Seasonal allergies common
- • School ratings vary widely
- • Some areas lack diversity
- • Higher crime rates in areas
💡City Insights
San antonio scores 6/10 for affordability, 5/10 for safety, and 5/10 for family-friendliness — an good overall profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in San antonio, TX? ▼
The cost of living in San antonio, TX is 16% lower than the national average, with a cost of living index of 84 (where 100 represents the U.S. average). Housing typically accounts for the largest portion of living expenses. See full cost of living breakdown →
How much does it cost to buy or rent a home in San antonio, TX? ▼
In San antonio, TX, The median home price is $272,500. requiring approximately $101,250 annual income to afford. Average rent is $14,874/month (requiring ~$594,977/year income). The local median household income is $59,593, making homeownership attainable for typical residents. Explore San antonio real estate data →
Is San antonio, TX a safe place to live? ▼
San antonio, TX is average in terms of safety, with crime rates near the national average. Safety varies significantly by neighborhood. View detailed San antonio crime statistics →
What salary do you need to live comfortably in San antonio, TX? ▼
To live comfortably in San antonio, TX and afford a median-priced home of $272,500, you would typically need a household income of $68,125 to $85,156 per year. The local median household income is $59,593. Renting requires approximately $594,977/year (at $14,874/month). See full affordability analysis →
What are the best neighborhoods in San antonio, TX? ▼
The best neighborhoods in San antonio, TX depend on your priorities. For families, look for areas near top-rated schools with lower crime rates. For affordability, neighborhoods throughout the city offer good value since the median home price of $272,500 is below the national average.
How are the taxes in San antonio, TX? ▼
Tax rates in San antonio, TX include state and local components. The cost of living index of 84 suggests a lower overall tax and expense burden cost environment compared to the national average. View detailed San antonio tax information →
How does San antonio, TX compare to nearby cities? ▼
San antonio, TX offers a more affordable alternative to nearby communities. With a cost of living index of 84, median home prices of $272,500, and a crime rate of 0 per 1,000 residents, you can compare these metrics side-by-side. Use the compare feature to evaluate specific cities.
What is the weather like in San antonio, TX? ▼
Weather in San antonio, TX varies by season. Climate data varies by season. View detailed San antonio climate & environment data →
What factors affect cost of living in San antonio, TX? ▼
The main factors affecting cost of living in San antonio, TX include housing costs (the biggest factor), utilities, groceries, transportation, and healthcare. Local taxes and the overall economic conditions also play a role.
Housing Costs by Zip Code
Detailed housing data across 58 zip codes in San antonio, TX.
| Zip Code | Median Home Price | Avg Rent | 2BR Rent | For Sale | For Rent |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 78201 | $249,900 | $1,282/mo | $1,150/mo | 182 | 156 |
| 78202 | $198,000 | $1,586/mo | $1,295/mo | 210 | 107 |
| 78203 | $239,000 | $1,632/mo | $1,800/mo | 102 | 60 |
| 78204 | $315,000 | $1,851/mo | $1,750/mo | 91 | 70 |
| 78205 | $725,000 | $3,657/mo | $3,500/mo | 24 | 21 |
| 78207 | $120,000 | $1,268/mo | $1,295/mo | 178 | 72 |
| 78208 | $210,000 | $1,618/mo | $1,500/mo | 35 | 41 |
| 78209 | $450,000 | $2,010/mo | $1,300/mo | 343 | 211 |
| 78210 | $250,000 | $1,604/mo | $1,350/mo | 303 | 166 |
| 78211 | $208,000 | $1,272/mo | $900/mo | 133 | 65 |
| 78212 | $399,900 | $1,670/mo | $1,495/mo | 216 | 205 |
| 78213 | $259,999 | $1,332/mo | $1,095/mo | 115 | 110 |
| 78214 | $211,999 | $1,125/mo | $999/mo | 155 | 40 |
| 78215 | $649,999 | $1,679/mo | $2,485/mo | 5 | 32 |
| 78216 | $312,000 | $6,429/mo | $1,219/mo | 120 | 155 |
| 78217 | $239,900 | $1,436/mo | $1,200/mo | 139 | 113 |
| 78218 | $235,000 | $1,476/mo | $1,200/mo | 142 | 119 |
| 78219 | $223,999 | $1,542/mo | $1,040/mo | 72 | 32 |
| 78220 | $168,000 | $1,571/mo | $2,395/mo | 151 | 55 |
| 78221 | $228,999 | $1,415/mo | $975/mo | 321 | 120 |
| 78222 | $249,990 | $1,737/mo | $1,250/mo | 426 | 63 |
| 78223 | $213,999 | $1,462/mo | $1,100/mo | 302 | 147 |
| 78224 | $267,999 | $1,996/mo | $1,250/mo | 298 | 67 |
| 78225 | $161,000 | $1,164/mo | $1,000/mo | 47 | 23 |
| 78226 | $239,000 | $1,220/mo | $950/mo | 10 | 12 |
| 78227 | $215,000 | $1,497/mo | $1,000/mo | 177 | 111 |
| 78228 | $220,000 | $1,425/mo | $1,195/mo | 159 | 107 |
| 78229 | $167,500 | $1,268/mo | $1,300/mo | 131 | 142 |
| 78230 | $364,000 | $2,071/mo | $1,450/mo | 170 | 79 |
| 78231 | $525,000 | $3,347/mo | $1,895/mo | 34 | 15 |
| 78232 | $399,500 | $1,660/mo | $1,050/mo | 125 | 79 |
| 78233 | $284,900 | $1,562/mo | $1,225/mo | 326 | 213 |
| 78235 | $340,000 | $1,028/mo | — | 9 | 9 |
| 78237 | $150,000 | $1,265/mo | $1,000/mo | 133 | 37 |
| 78238 | $250,000 | $1,543/mo | $1,300/mo | 117 | 56 |
| 78239 | $275,000 | $1,445/mo | $1,128/mo | 213 | 113 |
| 78240 | $295,000 | $1,720/mo | $1,350/mo | 202 | 196 |
| 78242 | $179,000 | $1,680/mo | $1,150/mo | 98 | 63 |
| 78244 | $239,900 | $1,608/mo | $1,195/mo | 216 | 234 |
| 78245 | $330,000 | $1,799/mo | $1,375/mo | 1,485 | 436 |
| 78247 | $299,000 | $1,660/mo | $1,325/mo | 217 | 133 |
| 78248 | $575,000 | $2,881/mo | $264,900/mo | 61 | 17 |
| 78249 | $309,900 | $1,868/mo | $1,575/mo | 181 | 207 |
| 78250 | $250,000 | $1,587/mo | $1,250/mo | 200 | 172 |
| 78251 | $284,900 | $1,882/mo | $1,250/mo | 141 | 102 |
| 78252 | $306,990 | $1,705/mo | $1,495/mo | 532 | 254 |
| 78253 | $339,000 | $1,903/mo | $1,800/mo | 1,542 | 425 |
| 78254 | $396,990 | $1,981/mo | $1,499/mo | 929 | 293 |
| 78255 | $425,000 | $2,890/mo | $450,000/mo | 221 | 33 |
| 78256 | $601,990 | $2,250/mo | $1,335/mo | 67 | 22 |
| 78257 | $999,900 | $3,014/mo | $3,200/mo | 186 | 27 |
| 78258 | $539,000 | $2,450/mo | $1,475/mo | 237 | 142 |
| 78259 | $440,000 | $2,281/mo | — | 100 | 42 |
| 78260 | $552,990 | $2,156/mo | $1,635/mo | 399 | 116 |
| 78261 | $419,950 | $2,367/mo | $2,500/mo | 220 | 58 |
| 78263 | $269,999 | $1,468/mo | — | 249 | 15 |
| 78264 | $214,999 | $1,561/mo | — | 278 | 11 |
| 78266 | $491,100 | $2,591/mo | — | 195 | 15 |
Explore More About San antonio, TX
📅 Last Updated: January 2026
Sources: U.S. Census Bureau (ACS), Bureau of Labor Statistics, Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER), Zillow, Redfin