This article was originally published on 12/15/2014. It has been updated to reflect current housing trends and homes on the market.
Buying a home is a serious investment that merits great thought and research before committing. Whether you’re looking to get into a first home that you’ll live in for years to come, or simply buy a fixer-upper that you can rent out right away, here is a breakdown of the neighborhoods in San Antonio that will suit your budget and your needs.
Value is more than just the dollar amount on your contract. When factoring in where you want to move your family, crime rates, square footage for the dollar, neighborhood amenities and school districts are important factors to take into account. Even if you find the home of your dreams, if it resides in a neighborhood that does not suit your lifestyle, it will provide significantly less value. To help see size up the many San Antonio neighborhoods, we took a look at all these factors and narrowed the list down to six neighborhoods that will certainly make that dollar stretch farther.
Stone Oak:
This area of far north central San Antonio is growing—and growing fast, making it a perfect fit for folks who are looking for “affordable luxury.” Stone Oak is a relatively new suburban area compared to older parts of the city, with up-to-date construction and roads. The area is known for its gated communities with bigger lots, high security, and manicured lawns. Many homes are equipped with pools, basketball courts, and other luxurious amenities. With many well-planned shopping centers, residents have access to all the restaurants and shopping they could ever need. There are many trendy bars and nightlife as well. The area is a part of the attractive North East Independent School District, known for its top-of-the-line public schools. The median Stone Oak home price is not far off the average price of a home in San Antonio– making it one of the more affordable neighborhood options equipped with all of the conveniences and necessities for the modern family on a modest suburban budget.
At a glance:
Click to see the most recent median home prices in Stone Oak
School District: North East ISD
Ideal for those looking for: affordable luxury, suburban
This single story home at 23027 Whisper Canyon is located in the heart of Stone Oak, in The Highlands of Sonterra. Equipped with two offices (or possible guest suite), wood floors accented by custom cabinetry and quartz counters in a chef's island kitchen, the home is quite the looker. But if all that doesn't entice you, maybe the private backyard haven filled with mature trees, and a patio and pergola overlooking the peaceful greenbelt setting will! Search for more homes in Stone Oak.
Alamo Heights/Terrell Hills/Olmos Park:
Grouped together because they all feed into the prestigious Alamo Heights Independent School District, this established community offers a quiet, small-town feel, just minutes from downtown. The Alamo Heights area is particularly appealing to families, and as such, you will regularly see children playing in front yards, as well as soccer moms (and dads!) shuttling their kids to and from activities. While homes and taxes tend to be on the pricier side, buyers find that they are paying for the community involvement and the reputation of this renowned, affluent area in San Antonio. And one thing that is enjoyed by those with two or three children is that what you pay in taxes is less than you would pay for private school tuition, yet you get "private-school-esque" education. For those relocating from areas where private school is prominent, this is definitely an added bonus that enhances the value of an Alamo Heights home.
At a glance:
Click to see the most recent median home prices in Alamo Heights
School District: Alamo Heights ISD
Ideal for those looking for: Central location, tight-knit community
This home at 10 Chatsworth is a beautiful, tri-level, colonial style property nestled in The Park at Lincoln Heights. A gorgeous front sunken courtyard welcomes you into the five bedroom, completely renovated home draped with double or triple crown molding and hardwood flooring. The kitchen is beautifully appointed with custom cabinetry, butlers pantry with wine storage, and the expansive views from the breakfast area (and one of the two balconies) of the Quarry Golf Course and the San Antonio skyline are simply breathtaking Search for more homes in Alamo Heights /Terrell Hills.
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Shavano Park
This neighborhood is located on the edge of the Texas Hill Country and is approximately 12 miles north of downtown. This neighborhood is known as one of the safest neighborhoods in San Antonio. While homes are certainly on the more expensive side (median home value is far above the average price of a home in San Antonio), the value of this neighborhood lies in the large home sites, lush in vegetation and surrounded by trees, as well as the excellent reputation it maintains. Additionally, this well-established area in San Antonio allows for quick travel to areas such as the Medical Center, USAA, and La Cantera Shopping Center. From manageable 2,500 square foot homes to the luxury homes of Bentley Manor, if you are looking for a secluded, tree-lined property within a stone's throw of all the amenities you might need, Shavano Park may be for you.
At a glance:
Click to see the most recent median home prices in Shavano Park
School District: Northside ISD
Ideal for those seeking: a mix of modern and classic style of homes, close proximity to major amenities.
This custom home at 4419 Bayberry Row (Bentley Manor) has been immaculately cared for. The perfect home for low maintenance living, the center courtyard has been outfitted with an Easy Turf lawn, complimented by mature oaks and a flagstone patio. Crown molding and granite span throughout the home while the living room boasts of built-ins and ceiling treatments. Tie it all together with the gas fireplace (with designer glass rocks for an enhanced glow), and you've got yourself a winning combination. Search for more homes in Shavano Park.
King William/Downtown
This historic and beautiful neighborhood, sometimes referred to as Southtown, has seen serious growth over the past few years. While traditionally recognized for its renovated historic homes, newer construction of multiplexes and condominiums are coming into the area. This is great for homeowners that tend to work and travel a lot and don’t have the time to maintain a larger home and yard. These newer constructions are bringing life back into the downtown area where there has been limited residential growth in the past for lack of land. As urban living is in revival mode, the area is accommodating for individuals and families seeking a unique neighborhood culture. With many trendy, foodie-approved restaurants and unique shops, this pedestrian neighborhood provides great value for those looking for a hip, urban lifestyle. Additionally, the nearby public schools have also improved dramatically over the past few years with the implementation of dual-language programs that are highly sought after by parents of school-aged children.
At a glance: Click to see the most recent median home prices in King William
School District: San Antonio ISD
Ideal for: cultural urbanities, walkability
This beautifully restored 1910 historic home at 324 Adams St. features original wood flooring, large living spaces, lush green landscaping, and a detached 451 sq. ft building full of potential. Bonus: It's only a half mile from the Blue Star Contemporary Art Museum, River Walk routes, and mouthwatering eateries. Search for more homes in King William
Castle Hills
Less than 10 miles north of downtown, Castle Hills is ideally located in central San Antonio and provides quick access to the entire city. This family oriented neighborhood is perfect for middle class families as it offers a small-town feel amidst the hustle and bustle of the big city. The median home price is just above the average price of a home in San Antonio. More recently, the area has seen some new growth with garden homes, town homes, and condos added to the collection of more traditional architecture that Castle Hills is known for. The bulk of the area’s retail centers along Military Highway but is a short drive from the rest of San Antonio’s main attractions. Castle Hills is a part of the North East Independent School District with highly accredited schools for families as well as various private schools within the area. The value of this neighborhood lays in its central location inside the loop, where many people enjoy being so close to everything.
At a glance:
Click to see the most recent median home prices in Castle Hills
School District: North East ISD
Ideal for: traditional suburban living, easy access to city-wide amenities
A mid-century classic, this home at 200 Briarcliff Dr. is nestled perfectly in Castle Hills. Tastefully renovated, plus the benefit of easy access to shopping, restaurants and Loop 410, this home does not disappoint! Search for more homes in Castle Hills.
Boerne
Peacefully situated in the Texas Hill Country, Boerne offers all of the amenities of city living without the noise of city life. Residents looking in the Boerne area generally want acreage, a slower pace of life, more of a small-town feel, but the ease of being within minutes of the big city. Boerne is ideal for family life as it provides access to another great school district – Boerne Independent School District with award-winning schools. The median home price is one of the higher ones in the state of Texas due to the high demand. With larger yards and more access to outdoor recreation with close proximity to lakes, rivers, caves and trails, this area provides the best value for those who need the most room to play and grow outside.
At a glance:
Click here to see the most recent median home prices for Boerne
School District: Boerne ISD
Ideal for: Hill Country enthusiasts, those seeking a tight-knit community
Classic Fair Oaks Ranch, this home (located at 7822 Timber Top Dr.) is packed with tons of great features. From the Pella cut-glass doors that welcome you, to the location just steps from the golf course (park your golf cart in the extra bay!!), this home could be a staycation property you won't want to leave! Search for more homes in Boerne.
When deciding where to buy a home in San Antonio, neighborhood is key. Clearly, different areas provide different value for different buyers based on their needs. For help deciphering which neighborhood is right for you, contact any of our knowledgeable Keller Williams agents.
Median Home Value Over Time
