San Antonio is the second-largest city in Texas, with a population of 1.3 million (2.6 million if you count the whole metro area). The city is perhaps best known for its historical landmarks (the Alamo and San Fernando Cathedral, to name a couple) and its expansive River Walk. Regarding cuisine, there are still plenty of amazing Tex-Mex options. However, the local food scene has also evolved to include more chef-driven restaurants cooking with local and artisanal ingredients. Those moving to San Antonio should expect hot summers and mild winters.
Relocation
Moving to San Antonio? Here’s What You Need to Know
If you’re relocating to San Antonio, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that housing costs (and the cost of living in general) is considerably below the national average. San Antonio currently boasts a thriving job market in a wide variety of markets, including healthcare, education, bioscience, renewable energy, and—of course—tourism. The city is currently experiencing an unprecedented period of growth and redevelopment of its downtown and surrounding neighborhoods, but even so strives to stay in touch with its Spanish roots and embrace its traditional Mexican-American culture.
San Antonio at a Glance
Best Places to Live in San Antonio
Like most Sunbelt cities, San Antonio consists of a relatively small downtown area surrounded by old neighborhoods, which eventually give way to the suburbs. If you’re looking to get a feel for some of San Antonio’s better-known districts, feel free to check out our San Antonio Neighborhoods page. And when you’re ready to kick off your search for the perfect San Antonio apartment, Smart City Locating is ready to help.
Q : What do I do if I have to move in and start work by a certain date, but I’m not able to visit San Antonio beforehand?
A : No worries! All of our agents offer video/facetime tours so you can actually see where you’ll be living. Leasing a unit sight unseen can be stressful, we like to send videos so you know if that closet will fit all of your shoes, or if that particular unit has a wine rack.
Q : I need to move to San Antonio 5 months from now, are you guys able to help?
A : This is a big one. We actually only know availability and pricing 60 days out, and while we can definitely start narrowing down potential neighborhoods and apartments, we won’t truly be able to start the search process until we’re 60 days away from move in!
Q : What if I am coming to San Antonio for only one or two days to look at apartments?
A : This is our full time job, and our agents work pretty much all the time. If you’re coming in on a Saturday, just let your agent know and we can have updated availability and pricing for you to look over before you come. We love touring out-of-towners because we get to show off how much we love this city. We can show you the different neighborhoods, best bars to meet new people, and definitely our favorite restaurants.
Q : What neighborhood should I live in?
A : This one is actually tough because there are so many different neighborhoods that we love!! Some of our favorites include Pearl, Alamo Heights, and King William/Southtown. But ultimately there are a lot of other factors that include your budget, hobbies, and work location that can determine which neighborhood is best for you! Don’t worry, we’ll walk you through the process, ask you all the right questions, and make sure you can confidently claim the best neighborhood for you.
Q : How do I set up electricity/utilities?
A : Here in San Antonio we have regulated energy so your new property will help you get that setup along with water & gas. For renters insurance, movers, and other move-in services, our Smart City Connect team is here to help — for free!
Q : What movers should I use?
A : Our Connect team can connect you with our partner services including movers, renters insurance, and furniture/appliance rentals. Browse services and get access to exclusive rates right here!
Q : What are my transportation options?
A : San Antonio is very much a car dependent city but the VIA Metropolitan Transit does offer multiple routes around the city, with lots of options in the Downtown area. Downtown/City Center and nearby neighborhoods are also pretty accommodating to cyclists and pedestrians.
Q : Are pets allowed?
A : Like much of Texas, San Antonio is pretty dog friendly. There are tons of bars and restaurants that allow dogs on their patios. Almost all of the apartments allow non-aggressive dogs as roommates (with a deposit), and some have dog parks, green areas, and even small yards. If you have an “aggressive” breed (We use quotations because we know your pit bull is sweet. Our office husky is the sweetest!) then your options will be more limited, but they still exist. Contact us and we can give you the details on what to expect and different options.
Q : What do deposits and upfront costs look like for renting in San Antonio?
A : Most properties require the following fees upfront: Application, Administration, and Deposit. Deposits are typically on a sliding scale based on credit and often waived with good credit. Expect between $200 – $500 in fees up front; but again, this can vary quite a bit from complex to complex and we won’t know for sure until we dive into your personal search.
Q : Fridge, Microwave, Parking?
A : All of the basic apartments in San Antonio will come with a refrigerator and (with very few exceptions) microwave. Luckily, most properties in the city also include free open parking; although reserved spaces and most parking at Downtown properties will cost extra monthly fees.
Q : Do you offer furnished and/or short term leases?
A : We’ve partnered with Nickson Living to help furnish apartments through furniture rentals instead of having to purchase everything!
As for short term leases, the minimum lease term we work with is 6 months, but pricing is usually MUCH higher for short term leases; sometimes double the price. We always tell people that if they’re planning on moving here for at least a year, it’s worth it to do a 12 month lease and save the money!