The Best Neighborhoods in San Antonio

Often dubbed “Alamo City,” San Antonio is a place that is as rich in history as it is in culture, as reflected by its most popular attractions, The River Walk. From its small-town feels and designated historic district to its unique mix of live music, sports, and dining options, it’s easy to see why people fall in love with the city of San Antonio.

San Antonio is a vibrant and thriving place to call home, offering a variety of neighborhoods to suit every budget, need, and lifestyle. Most notably, it touts a healthy real estate market, excellent public schools, and a lower cost of living compared to other Texas metros. Here we highlight a few areas to help you find the best neighborhood in San Antonio for you and your family.

Alamo Heights

Alamo Heights is just 10 minutes from the downtown San Antonio area. People live here for the centralized location, enviable shopping, and top-rated schools. And for the many military families living in San Antonio, Alamo Heights is one of the best neighborhoods in San Antonio for a quick commute to Joint Base San Antonio.

What truly sets Alamo Heights apart is that it offers loads of character and charm, with its early 20th century homes ideally perched on tree-lined streets. The neighborhood itself has its own police, fire, and sanitation departments, resulting in lower crime rates and a higher quality of life. Some of the wealthiest residents of San Antonio live in nearby Terrell Hills. However, there are still many reasonably priced options in Alamo Heights available for families and first-time homebuyers alike.

Southtown

Just south of downtown rests one of the best neighborhoods in San Antonio for art and color. And when we say color, imagine remodeled older homes and quaint bungalows splashed in eye-catching hues. One of the most famous homes in Southtown features a “periwinkle purple” exterior, painted by noted author Sandra Cisneros. (She caused quite a stir after painting her house this color, but it now serves as a hallmark of this quirky, edgy part of town.)

The best part of Southtown, also known as King William, is its charming arts district full of eateries and entertainment. This area is where the action is, so if you love attending art shows and having endless options for food and drinks, Southtown is for you. Another major draw of Southtown is its proximity to downtown, plus easy access to nearby private schools. It appeals to a variety of buyers, from empty-nesters to young professionals to growing families. This demand makes homes go quickly, so you’ll want to act fast if you find a place you love in this San Antonio enclave.

Stone Oak

For those who prefer the serenity of the suburbs, Stone Oak is a notable neighborhood in San Antonio’s outskirts. The area has a great school district for families with school-aged kids, as well as the added convenience of strip malls and big box stores. Homes here allow for larger lawns and square footage, with average home prices sitting around $350,000.

Locals claim to see younger members of the San Antonio Spurs often shopping at the local mall or hanging out at pubs in the area. If you’re looking to rub elbows with a few professional athletes, Stone Oak could be for you.

Helotes

Maybe you’re after the great outdoors? Helotes might be just the best neighborhood in San Antonio for you, as homes in the community typically sit on several acres of land. The area is a known hub for equestrian enthusiasts who want space to ride their horses or those just looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the big city.

A picturesque main street, complete with a feed store, post office, and general store, anchors the town. Most famously, the John T. Floore Country Store hosts some of country music’s most elite stars, including Willie Nelson, Lucinda Williams, and Lyle Lovett. Idyllic and pastoral, Helotes is a rare neighborhood in San Antonio where rugged charm meets peace and quiet, with a fantastic music scene to boot.

Mahncke Park

Mahncke Park steps in as one of the best neighborhoods in San Antonio for those in search of a budget-friendly fixer-upper. The neighborhood sits within proximity to Brackenridge Park, offering plenty of things to do right outside your door, like the San Antonio Zoo, The Japanese Tea Garden, and San Antonio Botanical Gardens.

What was once one of San Antonio’s best kept real estate secrets is now a hotbed of activity, and for good reason. Here you can live in lovingly refurbished bungalows with large wrap-around porches. Homes here also tend to be priced lower than their downtown counterpoints. These older homes offer loads of character and limitless potential, particularly if you’re willing to put in a little time and sweat equity.

Olmos Park

Olmos Park is another sought-after suburban neighborhood in San Antonio. And it often ranks among the best places in the city to raise a family or retire. With highly rated schools, low crime rates, and happening nightlife, Olmos Park tends to attract wealthier families with kids and couples who are looking to put down roots. The neighborhood was developed in the 1920s by local real estate mogul H.C. Thorman, who wanted to create a lush suburb surrounded by the City of San Antonio.

What’s the best neighborhood in San Antonio for you?

Whether you are a local who knows their way around town or a new resident, San Antonio has something to offer everyone. But even seasoned San Antonians might have trouble deciding on the best neighborhood in San Antonio to settle down in. The Orchard team has the San Antonio knowledge you need to buy the perfect home, covering everything from home prices to school districts.

And if you’re looking to sell your current San Antonio home and buy your next dream home, Orchard's Services can help. Instead of waiting for your current house to sell before you can buy your new one, Orchard gives you the ability to shop without your home sale delaying your timeline. We’ll help you make a competitive, non-contingent offer to buy your next home, then sell your current home for top dollar in 120 days or less.