With a population of around 1.5 million, San Antonio is a livable city with a small-town feel. Rich in history and boasting a diverse population, the city is attracting new residents all the time. The Texas city has been getting more attention lately and if you’re thinking of moving to San Antonio, here are 13 things you should know before packing up your belongings. If you’re considering the move, getting your finances in order is a must. A financial advisor can help you create a plan for your finances.
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1. The River Walk Is Worth the Hype
Not many American cities boast a pedestrian-only street along a beautiful river, lined with restaurants, bars and local shops. It’s a year-round attraction, as well as the site of popular annual festivals along – and on – the river. While many tourist destinations are overhyped, this one is actually worth everything that people talk about and more. It is something that must be experienced.
2. Everyone Roots for the Spurs
The performance of the San Antonio Spurs drives a lot of water cooler conversations in San Antonio. Even if you’ve never been a huge basketball fan in the past, it’s worth catching a Spurs game at least once after moving to San Antonio. The NBA team is part of the culture of the city and a major talking point.
3. The Population Is on the Rise
San Antonio appears on a lot of lists of fast-growing cities with booming economies. There’s an air of optimism in the city. This year, San Antonio made SmartAsset’s list of the best American cities for tech workers, as well as the top 10 best cities for first-time homebuyers. With its affordable homes, San Antonio can be a great place to settle.
4. Taxes Are a Mixed Bag
If you’re moving to San Antonio from a state with an income tax you’re in for a pleasant surprise. The Lone Star State has no income tax, and cities don’t impose their own income taxes. Sure, the city’s combined state and local sales tax rate of 8.25% is a little high, but the lack of an income tax goes a long way. On the other hand, the average effective property tax rate in Bexar County, where San Antonio is, is over 2%.
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5. The Food in San Antonio Is Amazing
San Antonio has a highly regarded food scene that extends from food trucks to haute cuisine. Many say the taco is the star of the show, and we wouldn’t want to argue otherwise. But it’s by no means the only part of San Antonio’s culinary life that’s thriving. Local coffee roasters, breweries and even Hill Country wineries are attracting loyal customers, too. And of course, there’s Texas barbecue.
6. Natural Bridge Caverns Is at Your Fingertips
If you’re moving to San Antonio and you want to do something you’ve never done in another city, put Natural Bridge Caverns on your list. It’s commercially run, so you’ll have to pay to enter. But once you do, you’ll be amazed by the limestone formations you see. You may find yourself bringing your visitors back to the caverns.
7. So Is Texas Hill Country
The Texas Hill Country is at your fingertips when you’re based in San Antonio. You can easily drive out of the city and into wildflower fields and rugged hills. Hill Country is a popular tourist destination for a reason – it’s beautiful.
8. Remember the Alamo
If you learned about San Antonio at all in school, it was probably to cover the basics of the Alamo. The Alamo is still a big part of San Antonio’s identity, and one of the city’s nicknames is Alamo City. If you don’t remember what happened there, it might be a good idea to brush up before moving to San Antonio. You also might find yourself getting interested in more San Antonio history after making the move there.
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9. You Can Hit up One of the Country’s Biggest Rodeos
The San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo is a big deal in the city. More than two million visitors flock to the event each year. Not interested in livestock? You may still want to check out the show. First of all, the sheer spectacle can make for a fun day or evening out. But also, there are some big-name artists who come to give live performances. In 2016, performers included Brad Paisley, Toby Keith and Pitbull.
10. Yes, Football Is That Big
One thing to consider before moving to San Antonio is that football is big, especially high school football. It’s huge throughout the state of Texas but San Antonio is home to many prominent high school football programs. Many high schools throughout the area are constantly in the conversation for state championships, such as Alamo Heights and New Braunfels high schools.
11. There’s more to San Antonio’s History Than Just the Alamo
As much hype as the Alamo gets in San Antonio, it’s not the only historical attraction. History lovers can head to Fort Sam Houston, a National Historic Landmark. There’s also the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, Mission Concepcion, the Cathedral of San Fernando and the Spanish Governor’s Palace. Oh, and the Mission San Francisco de la Espada, was established way back in 1690.
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12. There’s a World-Class Modern Art Museum
The McNay Museum in San Antonio was the first modern art museum in the Lone Star State. It was named for Marion Koogler McNay, who donated the core of the museum’s collection. McNay also donated her home and the surrounding 23 acres, which are now the site of the museum. Even if you’re not an art lover it’s worth visiting to check out the 24-room Spanish Colonial Revival home. The McNay is also a popular wedding venue in San Antonio.
13. It’s Called Military City, USA for a Reason
The city of San Antonio has one of America’s largest populations of active and retired military personnel. Every year, tens of thousands graduate from military training in San Antonio, and some stay in the city. Joint Base San Antonio is a massive military presence that’s home to the U.S. Army base Fort Sam Houston, the U.S. Air Force’s Randolph Air Force Base and Lackland Air Force Base. There’s also a massive Department of Defense medical facility on site.
The Bottom Line
If you’re thinking about moving to Texas, San Antonio might be a great option. There are several interesting things to be aware of before taking the leap, though. The most important aspect of any move is how the cost of living compares to your current budget. This will give you a good idea of whether you can afford the move and how it will impact your lifestyle.
Tips for Moving to San Antonio
- A financial advisor can help you navigate big life changes like a move, or just identifying and meeting your financial goals in general. SmartAsset’s free tool matches you with up to three financial advisors who serve your area, and you can interview your advisor matches at no cost to decide which one is right for you. If you’re ready to find an advisor who can help you achieve your financial goals, get started now.
- If you are moving to a new city, it’s a good idea to understand how the change will impact your budget. SmartAsset’s Texas paycheck calculator can help you determine how living in the Lone Star State will impact your take-home pay.
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