Overview
San Marcos is a historical city in Hays County, Texas, located northeast of San Antonio. Its ideal location and sunny weather have made it an enticing option for retirees. Besides that, the city is home to a quaint downtown with large shopping centers, as well as plenty of green spaces.
Climate and Geography
San Marcos is a small city located between Austin and San Antonio. Summers are sunny and humid, while winters are generally mild and cool, rarely freezing. Residents of San Marcos can expect to see over 200 sunny days a year.
Much like the rest of Central Texas, San Marcos is built on prairieland. The city has forested areas, rolling hills, rivers, and lakes.
Recreation, Culture & Entertainment
San Marcos is known for being home to Texas State Bobcat Stadium, where residents can join the excitement and catch a football game.
San Marcos also has an abundance of green spaces including the famous San Marcos River. Nearby parks include Blanco River, Rio Vista Park, and Five Mile Dam Park. Residents can discover different waterparks and resorts, and have the opportunity for kayaking, canoeing, and much more.
The city’s downtown is popular for its large shopping centers including San Marcos Premium Outlets and Tanger Outlets.
San Marcos is a historical city, so residents can find plenty of antique and boutique shops, historical museums as well as breweries, and wineries.
Cost of Living & Taxes
The cost of living in San Marcos is slightly higher than national and state averages. The housing cost is less than the national average. Other costs, such as utilities and transportation are higher than the national average, but the cost for groceries is lower.
Texas is a tax friendly state. There is no tax on Social Security, or income tax, and the state offers a homestead exemption for all homeowners. Retirement income remains untaxed as well. The sales tax in Texas is 6.25 percent and San Marcos does add a 2 percent tax onto that rate.
Health Care
Texas ranks among the top states in Gallup’s Well-Being Index.
San Marcos is home to two main hospitals and medical centers; Wellbridge Healthcare of San Marcos and Central Texas Medical Center. Just outside the city in Kyle, Texas, is Ascension Seton Hays, which is ranked high performing by U.S News.