With the exciting metro scene in San Antonio, why would you consider a move away from the lights and sights of the big city? Well, if you have a family, you're probably looking for a tight-knit community, more affordable housing, family-friendly outings, and areas with lower crime rates. Or, maybe you’re just craving some of the wide-open spaces that Texas living promised to afford! No matter the reason, then the suburbs will undoubtedly deliver.
Just because you're in the 'burbs doesn't mean you can't experience the same amount of fun outings, cultural events, diverse food scenes, historic buildings, and the best school districts in San Antonio. Check out these areas to find your next home in one of these great suburbs!
1. Boerne
This hot spot 15 miles north of San Antonio has a current population of about 20,502, but it still boasts that small-town charm in the Texas Hill Country. Its downtown area, the Hill Country Mile, is a must-see with its beautifully colored storefronts, variety of restaurants, and several art galleries to pique the interest of any budding artist.
Although Boerne is small compared to San Antonio, there is always something to go out and experience in Boerne. Plus, the nearby schools and friendly community make this neighborhood ideal for raising a family!
Top Things to Do in Boerne: Being in the Texas Hill Country, it's the perfect opportunity to explore the downtown area. Check out the boutiques, coffee shops, and historical sites specific to Boerne, like the Kuhlmann-King Historic House.
Median Housing Price: $349,494
2. Terrell Hills
If you're looking to downsize to a smaller area, Terrell Hills is five miles northeast of San Antonio and has a population of about 10,000 residents. Terrell Hills offers upscale living at a slower pace, so it's the ideal area for peace and quiet.
This way of life makes it an excellent place for retirees or raising a family, and the fact that it's considered one of the safest areas in the San Antonio metro. So if you love living in an active and friendly community, this neighborhood could be the perfect fit!
Keep in mind that Terrell Hills is an affluent area, with most home prices close to the million-dollar range, so it's not an affordable neighborhood for everyone. But if it's within your price range, it's the perfect area to call home.
Top Things to Do in Terrell Hills: Not only does this neighborhood offer a variety of restaurants, bars, and coffee shops, but parks and outings for the whole family. Nearby attractions include the San Antonio Botanical Gardens and the McNay Art Museum.
Median Housing Price: $572,500
3. Alamo Heights
Neighboring Terrell Hills, the neighborhood of Alamo Heights is home to only 8,000 residents. However, it shares a bit in common with Terrell Hills, with even the local schools educating students of both areas. Alamo Heights is a beautiful small town with flowering trees and bushes that brighten up the area. It offers several shopping centers, restaurants, and grocery stores like Central Market filled with fresh, healthy food.
Similar to the neighboring town of Terrell Hills, Alamo Heights can offer more variety in housing structures. From bungalows to large estates, all sorts of diverse styles are found in this neighborhood.
Top Things to Do in Alamo Heights: Being next door to Terrell Hills, the San Antonio Botanical Garden also isn't far from Alamo Heights. But activities unique to this area include getting a bite at the Chela's Tacos restaurant, where you can get the best Mexican and Tex-Mex dishes in town!
Median Housing Price: $632,188
4. Helotes
Found in the far northwestern reaches of San Antonio, Helotes is another small town with about 10,000 residents. This area offers a beautiful, rustic charm, complete with a historic country store. This neighborhood also has more affordable housing options and luxury homes with a higher price tag if that's ideal for you.
Top Things to Do in Helotes: Speaking of that historic country store, you can check out the John T. Floores Country Store for your entertainment needs. This landmark live music venue, restaurant, and bar all-in-one has hosted country music legends like Willie Nelson and George Jones.
Median Housing Price: $390,441
5. Alamo Ranch
This neighborhood is a sought-after hotspot with an easy commute into the vibrant San Antonio metro, but Alamo Ranch also offers its own major shopping centers, entertainment, recreational activities, and even new medical facilities. In addition, Alamo Ranch is an excellent area for families and retirees looking for outdoor social activities in a tight-knit, secure community.
Many of the homes in Alamo Ranch feature a greenbelt, meaning plenty of lawn space with no homes behind their property. Other homes in this neighborhood have gated entrances for an extra layer of security.
Top Things to Do in Alamo Ranch: This neighborhood offers a community junior Olympic swimming pool that families with children are sure to appreciate, along with the separate toddler pool. Other amenities include a tennis court, basketball court, a large cabana, and a pavilion that are fantastic amenities to host parties and other events.
Median Housing Price: $350,000
6. Hollywood Park
Hollywood Park is a popular, upscale neighborhood located in northern San Antonio. With a much smaller population of 3,327, housing tends to be few and far between, but it's possible to find an affordable home in this neighborhood. For example, there are several houses priced under $500,000, with few properties priced over $1,000,000.
Although it's farther away from San Antonio compared to other suburbs, the low crime and exceptional local schools make this area a hotspot. Hollywood Park is a wonderful in-between if you're looking to get away from the city without being too isolated.
Top Things to Do in Hollywood Park: There are many fun activities in Hollywood Park, from bars to food to hopping over to San Antonio for sightseeing. Check out The Hoppy Monk to hang out in a beautiful patio setting and then visit Chester's Hamburgers to grab dinner. If you have kids, you must visit The DoSeum Children's Museum and hit Gorrell Park afterward for its playground.
Median Housing Price: $333,500
7. Fair Oaks Ranch
Fair Oaks Ranch is a beautiful entrance to the Texas Hill Country that will become another hotspot. With a population of about 9,944, it's a small area neighboring Boerne and San Antonio.
Most of the homes in this neighborhood are custom built and within the $450,000 price point, but some properties are well above that price. However, because of the custom homes in this area, there are several empty lots available to build your ideal home.
Top Things to Do in Fair Oaks Ranch: For activities, hit the Fair Oaks Ranch Golf & Country Club for a fabulous tee time and enjoy the gorgeous scenery. There are also numerous nature trails and parks to check out when you need to get away from the city scene.
Median Housing Price: $455,400
8. Cibolo
Cibolo is an area with about 27,963 residents that has a low crime rate, highly rated public schools, community events, and affordable housing options. In addition, since it neighbors San Antonio, commuting is easy if you want to enjoy the plethora of activities found in the city! With these aspects, Cibolo is considered an ideal place to raise a family.
Top Things to Do in Cibolo: If you're looking for a quaint coffee shop that's also kid-friendly (yes, you read that right), you must check out Emily's Place Coffee Shoppe to enjoy a specialty coffee while the kids can enjoy the playground on site. For other family-friendly outings, grab a bite at Harmon's BBQ before enjoying an ice cream at Scoop at the Mill.
Median Housing Price: $275,478
9. Garden Ridge
Garden Ridge may be 20 miles northeast of San Antonio, but it's one of the fastest-growing communities in South Texas. With a population of about 3,961, this tight-knit community has low crime rates and beautiful homes tucked away from the street under large oak trees.
This neighborhood also overlooks the gorgeous wildflower fields from the Texas Hill Country. So if you're looking for a smaller community with more affordable housing, Garden Ridge may be the perfect place for you!
Top Things to Do in Garden Ridge: This neighborhood offers unique lunch spots like Avocado Cafe & Juice Bar and Wraptitude, where you can get healthy and delicious options from gourmet wraps to burgers. For a drink, check out Ranger Creek Brewing & Distilling for craft beers and whiskey.
Median Housing Price: $450,800
10. Schertz
This populous neighborhood of 43,692 residents is one of the central suburbs of Northeast San Antonio. Schertz has a rich agricultural and entrepreneurial heritage stretching back to its first settlers in the 1840s. Being so close to San Antonio, there are many great activities in this family-friendly area and more affordable housing options.
Top Things to Do in Schertz: First things first, you must check out "Schertzfest," an annual celebration of the town's founding at Pickrell Park with Texas BBQ and live music. Schertz is also home to the Natural Bridge Caverns, which is a great outing for families and nature lovers alike.
Need to take the family out on the weekend? Check out Bussey's Flea Market with over 500 vendors and a traditional flea market feel that will get you into the treasure hunting mood!
Median Housing Price: $266,000
There you have it, the perfect way to enjoy the city life of San Antonio without the commitment of living within the hustle and bustle. Whether you're looking for a less populous city or a charming small town, you can find the perfect suburb to fit your needs.
Don't let anyone tell you that nothing exciting happens in the suburbs, especially when these great neighborhoods have so much to offer with fun outings and unique food spots. Join other young professionals and families in these growing communities that are sure to please.
For more buying advice to find your dream home in Texas, check out BHGRE HomeCity!
