Are you considering moving to Texas but wincing at the cost of living in cities like Austin and Dallas? Join the wave of people relocating to San Antonio—America’s fourth-fastest-growing city in 2024 and the seventh most populous in the nation. With its historic Spanish roots, walkable and vibrant downtown, and diverse range of neighborhoods, San Antonio can feel like a big city one moment and a charming small town the next.
But what about the cost of living? You’re in luck, as San Antonio is one of the most affordable cities in the country. From housing and utilities to tax benefits, we’ve compiled a list of the city’s crucial costs. Find out how you can save by moving to San Antonio.
Table of Contents
Housing
San Antonio offers significant savings on housing, with average costs about 21% lower than the national average. You’re in luck if you’re moving to the area, as the city’s housing market has been trending downward for the last few years, seeing prices down 3.7% since 2024. The median sale price of a home in July of 2025 was $292,496, making home ownership a more attainable goal for many.
Renters will also find an affordable market, with an average rent of $1,295 per month. While this will vary based on location and apartment type, even luxury options can be found for around $2,000 a month. Whether you thrive in a bustling downtown or prefer quiet, historic neighborhoods, San Antonio has a wide variety of options to suit every type of lifestyle.
Utilities
Basic utilities such as electric, heating, cooling, and water cost an average of approximately $203.53 per month. Expect costs to peak during the hot, humid summer months and decrease during the milder winter season. Internet service is close to the national average at $80.64 a month, while phone bills are significantly cheaper at $67.71.
Grocery
While grocery costs have increased nationwide in the years since the pandemic, San Antonio remains generally affordable. On average, grocery prices here are about 6% less than the national average, with staples such as bread, eggs, and milk typically priced under $5.
As one of the pioneers of Tex-Mex cuisine, San Antonio offers some of the best Tex-Mex in the country. From authentic restaurants steeped in tradition to innovative fusion dining, the city’s vast culinary offerings are sure to satisfy. Food and Wine even named San Antonio one of America’s next great food cities, highlighting the recent rise of Asian influences in its food scene. From late-night $10 tacos to trendy cocktail bars, this southern city has delicious eats for every budget.
I witnessed the city continue to enjoy its cost of living and housing and utility costs that are far below the national average. What I found shocking, as someone who has been in the BBQ space for several decades, is that groceries are incredibly cheap compared to many places.
Brian Gunterman, San Antonio local, CEO and Founder of DDR BBQ Supply
Health
Healthcare is one of the few areas that come at a high cost in San Antonio. Texas is among the most expensive states for healthcare in the country, with many residents struggling to pay medical bills or avoiding doctor visits altogether due to the high costs.
A typical doctor’s visit in San Antonio costs slightly more than the national average, at $146.15. However, dental visits are significantly more expensive, averaging $155.84. Optometrist appointments are also costly, with an average price of $137.14 per visit. Prescription medications are 21.4% higher than the national average, costing around $25.22.
Transportation
Due to San Antonio’s sprawling size—nearly 200 square miles larger than Austin—most residents will need a car to get around. While the city does offer an affordable bus system, public transportation is often considered slow and unreliable outside of the downtown area. Similarly, walkability is limited to downtown and a few surrounding neighborhoods.
Fortunately, transportation costs in San Antonio are relatively low. Texas consistently has some of the cheapest gas prices in the country, with the local average in San Antonio at $2.89 per gallon. Additionally, a tire balance typically costs around $67.38.
Miscellaneous
Goods and services vary in price but are generally more affordable than the national average. Basic items like toothpaste ($4.04), shampoo ($1.40), and ibuprofen ($10.91) offer modest savings. Meanwhile, pizza and wine are nearly a dollar cheaper than average.
However, some beauty services come at a premium. A visit to a beauty salon costs $69.50—about $20 more than the national average. Haircuts are also pricier, averaging $28.44, or just over $2 more. While beauty enthusiasts may find these costs higher than expected, San Antonio’s overall affordability means salon visits and haircuts can still fit comfortably into most budgets.
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Income
San Antonio’s job market is growing, and incomes have been rising steadily every year. The current median household income is $66,176. Thanks to the city’s affordability, this provides a lenient budget that will cover your bills while leaving room for fun. Plus, there is no state income tax in Texas, which can bring significant savings. Whether you’re a young professional starting a career or a family of four, San Antonio offers financial stability along with all the amenities of a big city.
Conclusion
San Antonio is one of the most affordable cities in America, with an overall cost of living that is 8.6% lower than the national average. The housing market, which gets more affordable each year, brings notable savings with a current median home price of just $292,496. While healthcare in Texas is more expensive than in much of the country, it is one of the only areas where you’ll find high costs. Plus, the lack of state income tax can mean additional annual savings.
Your dollars go far in San Antonio, allowing you to enjoy everything this rich city has to offer. Despite its continuous growth, prices remain affordable. If you dream of warm weather year-round and owning a home, consider moving to San Antonio.
FAQs
What is the monthly cost of living in San Antonio, Texas?
The monthly cost of living in San Antonio, Texas, will vary greatly based on the number of people in your household, location, and amount of additional expenses. Excluding rent, the estimated monthly cost for a family of four is $3,735, while it is $1,061 for a single individual.
How expensive is it to live in San Antonio, Texas?
San Antonio is one of the most affordable big cities in America. The overall cost of living is 8.6% lower than the national average, with notable savings in housing and utilities. With a median income of $66,176, many residents find that their budgets stretch well. In addition to the lack of state income tax, moving to San Antonio can mean major savings for those relocating from other major cities such as San Francisco or New York.
What is the cost of housing in San Antonio, Texas?
Housing in San Antonio is 21% cheaper than the national average, meaning significant savings for many. It has been a buyer’s market for the last few years, with home prices steadily decreasing each year. The median sale price of a home is $292,496, while the average rent is $1,295.
Elisa Miller grew up in Chicago and recently graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with degrees in English and Communications. If she is not lost in a book, she can be found running, watching 30 Rock, or doing a puzzle.
