Best Places to Live in San Antonio, TX

Are you searching for the best neighborhoods in San Antonio, TX? Here are the seven best places to live in San Antonio with local favorites.

As the seventh-largest city in the United States, the beautiful city of San Antonio is considered one of the best places to live in Texas. Best Known for its River Walk, delicious Tex-Mex, and affordable cost of living, San Antonio is worth moving to.

Home of the infamous Alamo, San Antonio is steeped in history and is the location of multiple Spanish missions and historical sites. San Antonio is a safe and great place to live, and the city is recognized as one of the best places to raise a family. Texas offers many friendly communities in almost every city, such as Galveston and San Antonio.

While moving to a new city can be stressful, finding a great place to live is often overwhelming. Luckily, San Antonio, Texas, has multiple significant areas that appeal to any lifestyle and prime real estate. With the help of this neighborhood guide, learn about the city's best and most popular neighborhoods while staying away from any potentially harmful parts of town.

Learn more about the 7 Best Neighborhoods in San Antonio, Texas!

Alamo Heights 

If you are moving to Texas, you must check out the neighborhood of Alamo Heights in San Antonio. Found just five miles from Downtown San Antonio, Alamo Heights is a unique neighborhood with a family-friendly atmosphere. Offering its residents a dense suburban feel, this is a walkable place to live with various restaurants and local businesses to enjoy. Attracting many families and young professionals to the area, this is a very safe neighborhood with many fantastic schools. The Alamo Heights Independent School District is considered the best school district in San Antonio. If you are moving with school-aged children, some of the most highly rated schools nearby include Woodridge Elementary School, Alamo Heights Junior School, and Alamo Heights High School.

Local Favorites:

• The McNay Art Museum: Established in 1954, this was Texas's first modern art museum. It features many unique works, admiring paintings and sculptures in interactive exhibits and exciting permanent collections. 

• Quarry Golf Course: Ranked as the best golf course in San Antonio. Once a former quarry, this 175-acre course is a fantastic place to play. There is even live music during the week and casual dining at the clubhouse. 

• The Barbecue Station: Bring the family in for mouthwatering smoked Texas barbecue served alongside classic sides that are made fresh daily. Make sure to order the mac and cheese!

• Alamo Quarry Market: What was once an operating cement factory has become an open-air shopping and entertainment center. Some popular stores and restaurants include Whole Foods Market, California Pizza Kitchen, LOFT, Drybar, and Victoria's Secret.

Terrell Hills

Located in Bexar County, close to Alamo Heights, lies the neighborhood of Terrell Hills, which has a growing population of just over 10,000 people. Found only five miles Northeast of Downtown San Antonio, Terrell Hills is a safe suburban community that is great for raising children or spending retirement. Home to multiple top-rated public schools and up to six private schools, families with school-aged children can access only the best educational opportunities. Known to be 75% safer than other areas in Texas, Terrell Hills is a great place to live. Surrounded by history, this neighborhood is well-established and is one of a kind. Full of unique opportunities, residents will be close to local boutiques, eateries, and small businesses.

Local Favorites: 

• The Alamo: This 18th-century Spanish mission was founded by Roman Catholic Missionaries and is famous for the historical Battle of the Alamo between Texas and Mexico. Visit the site today to learn more about its historical significance. 

• San Antonio River Walk: Located along the San Antonio River, this River Walk is a 15-mile stretch of urban waterway. Recognized as the most popular attraction in San Antonio, this River Walk features sightseeing, shopping, dining, and entertainment for the whole family. 

• San Antonio Zoo: Found in Brackenridge Park, this zoo is 35 acres and is home to over 3,500 animals. Welcoming over one million visitors a year, this zoo is a great place to bring your kids to learn about animal conservation and nature. 

• AT&T Center San Antonio: This indoor arena in Downtown San Antonio is home to the San Antonio Spurs National Basketball team.

Oakland Estates

Great for young families and couples, the neighborhood of Oakland Estates is considered one of the best places to live in San Antonio. With a population of just over 8,100 people, 23% are families. For those moving with school-aged children, some of the top-rated schools in the area include McAndrew Elementary School and Health Careers High School. Plus, with affordable housing prices, Oakland Estates is a fantastic place to live for first-time homebuyers. Offering its residents a mixture of suburban and urban living, residents are surrounded by great restaurants and entertainment.

Local Favorites:

• The Magnolia Pancake Haus: Best known for its array of breakfast and lunch items, this restaurant specializes in all things pancakes. A hot spot among the locals, arrive early to ensure a table for you and your party. 

• NOVO Acai Bowls: Get your acai bowls, smoothies, juices, and other healthy foods. This is a relaxing place to work and cool off on a hot day. 

• Alamo Cafe: Serving only some of the best Tex-Mex in town. Order authentic fajitas, margaritas, and other classic favorites. Homemade flour tortillas are one of their specialties. 

• Brindles Awesome Ice Creams: This family-owned ice cream shop is a beloved destination for all things sweet and delicious. We serve unique ice cream flavors, homemade gelato, and even espresso. Make sure to order a waffle cone!

Monte Vista 

The neighborhood of Monte Vista is an affluent and historical neighborhood founded in the late 19th century. Home to thousands of different residents throughout the year, this part of town currently has 3,000 people. Near San Antonio College, Monte Vista is an architectural wonder full of Classical Revival, Queen Anne, Tudor, Craftsman, and Spanish Eclectic single-family home styles. This neighborhood is excellent for families and history buffs and reflects old Texas charm.

Known as a tight-knit community, residents can be seen attending various community events, social gatherings, and get-togethers. Plus, praised for its highly-rated public school system, Monte Vista takes the education of its youth very seriously. Some of the best schools in the area include Mark Twain Middle School and Thomas Edison High School. So, if you are looking for a historical place to call home, Monte Vista may be just the place for you.

Local Favorites: 

• San Antonio Missions National Historical Park: This National Park preserves four Spanish Missions in San Antonio. Visit the park for free to learn about the significance and history of these missions. 

• Six Flags Fiesta Texas: This amusement park is owned by Six Flags and is an excellent place to visit for any thrill seeker. Make sure to stay for fun-themed events for Halloween or during the holiday season.  

• San Antonio Museum of Art: Featuring extensive collections of art from around the world spanning over 5,000 years. Find historical art pieces from Asia, Latin America, and the Mediterranean. 

• San Pedro Springs Park: Spanning 46 acres, this is the oldest park in all of Texas. This is a great place to bring the whole family anytime, featuring a public pool, parking, walking trails, and tennis courts.

Tanglewood Ridge

Tanglewood Ridge is a larger neighborhood in San Antonio, with over 14,500 people in the Northwest. With an average age of 51, this neighborhood is ideal for established professionals and retirees. Built in the 1970s for the middle class, Tanglewood Ridge has grown into a diverse area with many opportunities for work and play. Known as a safe and affordable place to live, this neighborhood is great for first-time homebuyers. Providing its residents with a perfect mixture of suburban and urban living, living here is truly the best of both worlds. With a fantastic school district and many fun things to do, it is no surprise that Tanglewood Ridge is one of the most sought-after neighborhoods in San Antonio.

Local Favorites:

• Natural Bridge Caverns: Recognized as the most extensive commercial cavern system in the whole state of Texas. Take a cavern tour and travel up to 180 feet underground. 

• The University of Texas at San Antonio: A famous higher educational institution that teaches over 34,000 students. This is the eighth-largest university by enrollment in the state of Texas. A GPA of 3.4 is required to be accepted into this university. 

• Japanese Tea Gardens: Located in an abandoned limestone rock quarry, this tea garden features a 60-foot waterfall, Koi ponds, lush vegetation, and fauna. This park is free for entry, but there is up to a $20 fee for photographers. 

• San Fernando De Bexar Cathedral: This Roman Catholic Church was founded in 1731 and is considered the oldest cathedral in Texas. Visit today to attend a service on this historical site.

Mahncke Park 

The urban neighborhood of Mahncke Park is located on the Eastern side of Midtown San Antonio. Found close to Downtown, Mahncke Park has a smaller population of just over 3,500 residents. Known to be highly safe, this is an excellent place to live for families since it is ideal for raising children. Surrounded by multiple parks, walking trails, and botanical gardens, this neighborhood is great for outdoor enthusiasts and explorers. While homes here may be priced above the national average, the real estate is worth the price and is close to highly-rated schools and businesses.

Local Favorites: 

• W D Deli San Antonio: Serving sandwiches, soups, and salads in a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. If the weather is nice, sit out on the patio. 

• Smoke Shack BBQ: Get your classic Texas-style BBQ and homemade sides at this local eatery. Enjoy brisket, sausage, ribs, creamed corn, and fried okra! 

• Cheesy Jane's: This American eatery makes delicious burgers, fries, milkshakes, and other classic dishes. Do not forget to order a chocolate shake and tater tots!  

• The Hayden: Located at the Boardwalk on Broadway, this restaurant is pristinely decorated and an incredible overall experience. Famous for its weekend brunch, sandwiches, and craft cocktails, this place is great for bringing friends for great food and fun times.

Tobin Hill

Tobin Hill is considered one of San Antonio's inner neighborhoods and is an up-and-coming area for young professionals and couples. This fun and diverse community is a safe area near the city center and is a go-to place to live due to its location and affordable housing. Many college students call Tobin Hill home since it is near San Antonio College and the San Antonio River Walk. Full of cute boutiques, eclectic eateries, and exciting new breweries, the residents of Tobin Hill always have something to do and see. Find locals attending farmer's markets on the weekends, weekly outdoor concerts, or soaking up the nightlife at one of the nearby pubs and bars. Besides many outdoor trails for walking and biking, Tobin Hill is the perfect neighborhood for any lifestyle. 

Local Favorites: 

• Scobee Education Center and Planetarium: Learn about the stars, planets, galaxies, and all things in space at this planetarium that has been open since 1961. 

• The Grotto: Found on the River Walk, this riverfront cave is a hidden gem, a three-story structure, and a shelter with water features.

• Crockett Park: Often called "Twin Parks," this park is a great place to bring your kids or significant other for a romantic evening. You feature open green spaces, playgrounds, benches, and a gazebo. 

• Tycoon Flats: Enjoy burgers and all things Tex-Mex at this family-friendly restaurant.

FAQ - 7 Best Neighborhoods in San Antonio, TX

Here are some commonly asked questions about the best neighborhoods in San Antonio, TX.

What's the best area to live in San Antonio, TX?

San Antonio has many safe neighborhoods; the safest include Southtown, Monte Vista, and Fort Sam Houston.

Where is the richest part of San Antonio?

The most wealthy parts of San Antonio include Olmos Park, Alamo Heights, Terrell Hills, and Hill Country Village. Each neighborhood is known for its stunning homes, safe atmosphere, and friendly community.

What is the crime rate in San Antonio, Texas?

San Antonio is a relatively safe place to live, but it does have a higher-than-average crime rate. The violent crime rate is 735 per 100K people, higher than the national average. 

Is it worth moving to San Antonio?

Other than the beautiful neighborhoods, San Antonio features a low cost of living, low housing costs, a friendly community, abundant things to do, exciting culture, delicious food, and much more. 

Best Neighborhoods in San Antonio, TX - The Bottom Line

Whether you are moving to San Antonio for work or simply for a change of scenery, there is a neighborhood for you. By reading this guide, our team hopes you can find your dream home in a safe and highly-rated area of San Antonio. By learning about where you should and should not live, this guide's neighborhoods are worth considering. Check out some of the other amazing cities with great neighborhoods in Texas, like Houston, Galveston, and Plano

Before moving, reach out to one of our knowledgeable and friendly Realty Specialists to help aid and guide you through the home-buying process. Contact us today to find your dream neighborhood in San Antonio, Texas!