There’s no place in Texas quite like San Antonio. This history-rich city in Central Texas teems with adventure, natural beauty, and plenty of affordable housing options, making it an ideal choice for retirees. Active adults looking for San Antonio, Texas homes for sale have their pick of multiple 55+ communities, each offering its own distinctive appeal.
Hill Country Retreat, another 55+ community in San Antonio, will contain nearly 2,000 single-family homes upon completion. Here, homeowners can enjoy tennis courts, bocce ball courts, walking and biking trails, and a 28,000-square-foot clubhouse that offers an abundance of amenities and activities.
If you have your sights set on San Antonio, read on to discover why Alamo City is an ideal retirement destination.
Low Cost of Living
Affordability is one of the biggest reasons retirees choose to settle in San Antonio. The city’s cost of living is 14 percent lower than the rest of the country, according to PayScale. Retirees on fixed incomes can stretch their dollars further in River City, allowing them to embark on more adventures and enjoy more financial freedom.
A Rich Heritage
Established in 1718, San Antonio was the first settlement in Texas. Originally founded as a Spanish outpost, the city still contains many Spanish architectural and cultural elements. San Antonio’s roots run deep, from the iconic Alamo to the world-famous River Walk. Mission San Jose, which has been an active Texas church for more than 250 years, is another spectacular testament to the city’s history.
Plenty of Free Things to Do
Living in San Antonio doesn’t require spending a fortune to have fun. The city offers many activities that are completely free, whether you’re into perusing art museums, catching a live performance at an outdoor theater, or enjoying a picnic at the park.
A favorite among locals is historic Brackenridge Park, where people often gather for yoga, birdwatching, and a variety of sports. Retirees who love art or modern culture can take it in for free at Artpace. This destination features works of art from artists around the globe and offers free parking and free admission.
Access to World-Class Healthcare
Retirees enjoy peace of mind living in San Antonio. The city is a hub for top-notch healthcare, providing residents with abundant options for specialized and emergency care. San Antonio is also home to researchers and physicians who tap into new technologies to develop best-in-class treatments. According to a list from U.S. News and World Report, three San Antonio hospitals are among the 20 best in Texas.
Sunshine-Packed Days
Retirees who enjoy soaking up the sun have many opportunities in San Antonio. With an average of 300 sunny days each year, the city is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. San Antonio retirees also enjoy relatively mild temperatures year-round, with winter temperatures seldom falling below 40 degrees.
A Colorful Shopping Scene
San Antonio offers many places to shop for just about anything, whether you’re browsing for antiques or art. San Antonio retirees often spend less than in larger cities nearby, such as Houston or Dallas. Alamo City offers a mix of locally owned boutiques, vintage stores, and upscale venues, giving retirees never-ending variety when browsing for their next treasure.
At Adelante, San Antonio retirees can browse women’s clothing, accessories, and jewelry. This eclectic boutique got its start 35 years ago in the famed Pearl Brewery district. Good Goods, an interior design shop just a few minutes from Downtown San Antonio, offers Texas-chic tables, chairs, rugs, and artwork. It’s just the spot for retirees to discover the perfect addition to their home.
Flavorful Food
San Antonio prides itself on its vibrant culinary scene. It’s one of just two U.S. cities designated as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, making it an international culinary destination. Tucson, Arizona shares this recognition as well.
San Antonio shines with some of Texas’ best food and drinks, from a top-shelf margarita at Rosario’s to authentic chicken mole enchiladas at Panchito’s.
Fun Festivals
Retirees can experience San Antonio through various festivals and seasonal events. Whether retirees want to immerse themselves in a cultural festival, tap their toes at a music event, or taste their way through a culinary festival, San Antonio offers an exciting lineup of events to suit nearly every interest. Fiesta San Antonio is the city’s signature event, which honors the memory of the battles of the Alamo and San Jacinto.
