Where Military Families Are Moving Near San Antonio and Austin
Are you a veteran homebuyer wondering where to put down roots near San Antonio or Austin? You’re in the right place. Whether you’re PCSing (Permanent Change of Station) to Joint Base San Antonio (JBSA) or looking to settle down after your service, these Texas cities are brimming with opportunity.
In fact, according to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Texas is home to over 1.5 million veterans—many of whom choose the Hill Country region for its strong military community and affordable living.
Below, we’ll walk you through prime neighborhoods around San Antonio and Austin, explain why they’re popular among military and veteran families, and share tips on how to leverage your VA loan benefits. We’ll also give you a side-by-side comparison of costs, commute times, and schools so you can make the best decision for your family. Let’s dive in.
Why Military Families Are Moving to San Antonio and Austin
San Antonio: “Military City, USA”
San Antonio has long been called “Military City, USA.” Joint Base San Antonio (JBSA) ties together three primary locations: Lackland Air Force Base, Fort Sam Houston, and Randolph Air Force Base. This area hosts over 80,000 service members and civilian employees, making it one of the largest military hubs in the country.
For veteran homebuyers, that means a wealth of resources—like veteran-focused real estate agents, robust VA hospital services, and a huge community of fellow military families.
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Austin: A Growing Veteran Scene
Just 80 miles up I-35, Austin is rapidly expanding, especially in the tech sector. Camp Mabry, home to the Texas Military Department, is a quick commute from many suburbs. Veterans are drawn to Austin for its job market, music scene, and educational opportunities.
Despite higher housing costs in the city proper, the surrounding suburbs like Cedar Park and Round Rock are more budget-friendly, particularly for those looking to use VA home loans.
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Common Reasons Veterans Choose This Region
Solid Schools: Texas invests heavily in education. Many of the Independent School Districts (ISDs) around both cities rank high nationally.
Affordable Housing Options: San Antonio’s cost of living is about 14% below the national average, while Austin suburbs help offset the city’s higher prices.
Strong Job Market: Beyond military opportunities, you’ll find thriving sectors like tech in Austin and healthcare in San Antonio.
No State Income Tax: Texas is one of the nine states that do not levy a state income tax, which can be a big plus for retired veterans on fixed incomes.
VA Loan Opportunities: Purchasing a home with a VA loan can mean little to no down payment, flexible credit requirements, and no private mortgage insurance (PMI)—a huge advantage for qualified veterans.
Top Spots Near San Antonio
San Antonio spans a large area, giving you a variety of neighborhoods to choose from. Here are some of the top picks for veteran homebuyers.
1. Alamo Ranch
Location & Commute: Located on the west side, roughly 15–20 minutes from Lackland AFB.
Home Prices: Typically range from the low $300,000s to $500,000, offering 2,000–3,000 square-foot homes.
Community Perks: You’ll find master-planned communities packed with amenities like pools, parks, and walking trails. Northside ISD serves this area, boasting schools such as Taft High. Shopping is convenient, with a local Walmart, HEB grocery store, and Alamo Ranch Marketplace.
Why Veterans Love It: The commute to Lackland AFB is short, and the neighborhood is known for being very military-friendly. Quick weekend gatherings with fellow service members are common, making it easy to build a support network.
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2. Stone Oak
Location & Commute: Situated north of downtown, near Camp Bullis and Brooke Army Medical Center (BAMC). Commutes average about 20 minutes.
Home Prices: Typically range from $250,000 to $600,000. Gated communities are available for extra security.
Schools & Amenities: Northeast ISD’s Reagan High is well-regarded, and Stone Oak’s proximity to the San Antonio International Airport, as well as upscale shopping at The Shops at La Cantera, is a plus.
Why Veterans Love It: High-quality healthcare options are nearby, which can be crucial if you rely on VA medical services or want a choice of local providers. Stone Oak tends to be a long-term stay area thanks to a strong sense of security and top-tier amenities.
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3. Schertz
Location & Commute: Found northeast of San Antonio, roughly 20 minutes to Randolph AFB and Fort Sam Houston.
Home Prices: Generally between $200,000 and $400,000.
Community & Schools: Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City ISD boasts a graduation rate around 96%. Olympia Hills Golf Course and local parks provide weekend family fun.
Why Veterans Love It: Schertz has a small-town feel with quick access to big-city perks. Many military families find it easier to form close-knit communities here.
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4. New Braunfels
Location & Commute: About 30 miles up I-35 from San Antonio, making for a 45-minute commute to JBSA.
Home Prices: Median prices hover around $350,000, with some homes reaching $550,000, depending on size and location.
Lifestyle: Known for its Hill Country charm, tubing on the Guadalupe River, and family-friendly festivals like Wurstfest. Comal ISD is highly rated for academics.
Why Veterans Love It: The laid-back lifestyle and natural beauty are big draws. This area is also a good midpoint if you need to travel frequently between San Antonio and Austin.
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Top Spots Near Austin
Austin’s reputation for live music and tech jobs is famous. Camp Mabry is just west of downtown, but you’ll also find other military installations in the region. Many veteran homebuyers choose the suburbs for their affordability and top-rated schools
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1. Cedar Park
Location & Commute: About 20 miles northwest of downtown Austin, with a 30-minute drive to Camp Mabry (barring traffic).
Home Prices: Average around $400,000 to $600,000.
Schools & Lifestyle: Served by Leander ISD, which boasts multiple high-performing schools like Cedar Park High. Local highlights include Brushy Creek Lake Park and multiple greenbelts.
Why Veterans Love It: Cedar Park offers a quiet, suburban feel while still being close to Austin’s amenities. It’s popular with veterans seeking a balance between city life and a family-oriented community.
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2. Leander
Location & Commute: Neighbors Cedar Park, with a commute of 35 minutes to Camp Mabry via major highways.
Home Prices: Slightly more affordable than Cedar Park, starting around $350,000.
Community Features: Rapid growth has led to numerous new housing developments, and Leander ISD’s schools are consistently well-rated. Plus, the Capital MetroRail connects residents to downtown Austin in about 45 minutes.
Why Veterans Love It: Offers more space for your money, and being close to Cedar Park’s amenities without the higher price tag is appealing. The rail service is also handy for veterans who want to explore job opportunities in downtown Austin.
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3. Round Rock
Location & Commute: Roughly 20 miles north of Austin and 20–35 minutes from Camp Mabry, depending on traffic.
Home Prices: Typically range from $325,000 to $550,000.
Schools & Economy: Round Rock ISD is known for quality education, including schools like Westwood High. Dell’s headquarters is here, boosting the local economy. The Round Rock Premium Outlets and a variety of parks add to the family appeal.
Why Veterans Love It: The job market is robust, and it’s a family-friendly environment with great schools and plenty of outdoor space. If you’re looking for a place that offers both suburban tranquility and career opportunities, Round Rock strikes the right balance.
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What’s Driving the Moves?
Base Proximity
Quick commutes to installations like Lackland, Randolph, or Camp Mabry are crucial for active-duty folks and even veterans who seek on-base amenities or healthcare.High-Performing Schools
ISDs in these areas often rank among Texas’s best, making them attractive for families who want strong academics and extracurriculars for their children.Cost of Living
San Antonio is about 14% below the national average, which can stretch your Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) further.
Austin’s city center is pricier, but suburban living in places like Leander or Round Rock can help balance the budget.
Military Community
Living near a base often means plenty of neighbors who understand the military lifestyle. You’ll find local businesses offering military discounts and community events catering to veteran families.No State Income Tax
Texas doesn’t levy a state income tax, allowing you to keep more of your paycheck or retirement benefits—money that can go into your home or your future.
Comparing the Hotspots
Below is a quick side-by-side comparison of popular areas near San Antonio and Austin, along with some approximate figures. Always verify current data through reputable real estate resources or local MLS listings.
| Location | Avg. Home Price | Commute to Base | School District | Key Perks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alamo Ranch | $300k–$500k | 15–20 min (Lackland AFB) | Northside ISD | Pools, shopping, military-friendly |
| Stone Oak | $250k–$600k | 20 min (Camp Bullis/BAMC) | Northeast ISD | Gated communities, upscale |
| Schertz | $200k–$400k | 20 min (Randolph AFB, Fort Sam) | Schertz-Cibolo-UC ISD | Golf, small-town feel |
| New Braunfels | $350k–$550k | 45 min (JBSA) | Comal ISD | River activities, Hill Country charm |
| Cedar Park | $400k–$600k | 30 min (Camp Mabry) | Leander ISD | Parks, suburban vibe |
| Leander | $350k–$500k | 35 min (Camp Mabry) | Leander ISD | MetroRail, growing community |
| Round Rock | $325k–$550k | 20–35 min (Camp Mabry) | Round Rock ISD | Strong job market, outlets |
Costs and Lifestyle Breakdown
San Antonio
Median Home Price: $262,000 (24% below national average)
Typical Rent (3-bedroom): $1,300–$1,800/month
Utilities: Around $250/month for a family of four
Groceries: Approximately $400/month for a family of four
BAH for E-5 with Dependents (2025 Estimate): $1,800/month (Check the Defense Travel Management Office for up-to-date rates.)
Austin
Median Home Price: $475,000 in the city; lower in suburbs like Leander ($350,000+)
Typical Rent (3-bedroom): $1,500–$2,000/month
Utilities: Around $275/month for a family of four
Groceries: Approximately $450/month for a family of four
BAH for E-5 with Dependents (2025 Estimate): $2,100/month
If you’re looking for more square footage at a lower price, San Antonio might be your best bet. However, if you want a shot at the tech industry or prefer a more urban, cultural scene, Austin-area suburbs could be ideal.
Why These Areas Work for Military and Veteran Homebuyers
Close to Key Bases: Alamo Ranch and Schertz are near JBSA. Cedar Park and Round Rock offer reasonable commutes to Camp Mabry.
Family-Oriented Amenities: You’ll find community pools, sports leagues, and recreational parks specifically designed with families in mind.
VA-Friendly Housing Market: Many local agents specialize in VA loans, and sellers in these military-heavy areas are familiar with VA loan requirements.
Veteran Services & Discounts: From grocery stores to local attractions, many businesses around bases offer discounts to veterans and active-duty service members.
Healthcare Access: If you need ongoing care through the VA, both the San Antonio and Austin regions have major VA clinics and hospitals.
Tips for Picking Your Spot
Use Your VA Loan Benefits
A VA loan typically allows zero down payment and no private mortgage insurance (PMI). This can save you thousands over the life of your mortgage. Learn more at the VA’s official website.Check Out Schools
Visit GreatSchools.org or your desired ISD’s website for ratings. Schedule tours if you can. Strong schools often mean higher property values and a more family-friendly environment.Scope the Commute
Military families know that time is valuable. Test your commute during peak hours. If possible, plan a “test drive” from any potential neighborhood to your base or workplace.Talk to Other Veteran Families
Speak with coworkers, friends, or local veteran spouse groups. A quick chat often reveals insights you won’t find online—like the best local grocers or reliable daycare options.Explore the Community
Before making an offer, drive around your prospective neighborhood on weekends. Check out local parks, grocery stores, and restaurants. Make sure it feels like home.
What’s Next for These Areas?
Both San Antonio and Austin continue to grow. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, San Antonio’s population has increased by around 2% since 2020, topping 1.5 million residents. Austin is nearing 1 million, with suburbs like Leander among the fastest-growing in Texas. As new housing developments spring up, prices may rise—but that also means more options for veteran homebuyers.
If you’re leaning toward these regions, keep an eye on new developments near Alamo Ranch in San Antonio and Cedar Park in Austin. Early buyers often lock in lower prices before demand spikes. With Texas’s strong economy, there’s no indication this growth will slow anytime soon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are military families moving near San Antonio?
Alamo Ranch, Stone Oak, Schertz, and New Braunfels are top picks. They’re all close to JBSA, offer affordable homes, and boast strong schools.What’s the best spot near Austin for military families?
Cedar Park and Round Rock are popular for their highly rated school districts and a manageable 20–30 minute commute to Camp Mabry.How far are these areas from their respective bases?
In San Antonio, expect a 15–45 minute drive to Lackland, Randolph, or Fort Sam. Around Austin, it’s about 20–35 minutes to Camp Mabry.Are these areas affordable for veteran homebuyers?
Yes. San Antonio tends to be more budget-friendly, with home prices starting in the low $200,000s. Austin suburbs are slightly higher but can still fit within BAH for many ranks.Which schools are best for military kids?
Northside ISD (Alamo Ranch), Northeast ISD (Stone Oak), Schertz-Cibolo-UC ISD, Round Rock ISD, and Leander ISD all have strong reputations and military-friendly programs.Is renting a good option in these neighborhoods?
Absolutely. Monthly rents range from about $1,300 to $2,000 for a three-bedroom near the bases, which can be covered by BAH depending on rank and location.What’s the vibe like in these neighborhoods?
San Antonio suburbs often feel tight-knit and are very military-focused. Austin suburbs mix a laid-back atmosphere with a growing tech culture.How’s the commute to work?
Expect anywhere from 20 to 50 minutes, depending on the neighborhood and time of day. Checking traffic apps during your usual commute times can give a realistic picture.Do businesses offer military discounts?
Yes. Restaurants, retailers, and entertainment venues near bases commonly extend discounts to active-duty service members, veterans, and their families.What’s the catch with these areas?
Rapid growth can mean increased traffic and rising home prices. Planning ahead and moving quickly on listings you like can help you secure the right home.
