What Is the Average Cost of Living in San Antonio?

The cost of living in San Antonio is a frequent consideration for those contemplating a move to this Texas city.

Overall Cost of Living Snapshot

The city’s Cost of Living Index (COLI) typically hovers around 91.2 to 91.3, indicating that expenses are approximately 8.7% to 8.8% lower than the national benchmark of 100. While living costs in San Antonio are often lower than the U.S. average, they can be about 4% to 13% higher than the Texas state average, depending on the specific category. This affordability positions San Antonio favorably when compared to other large Texas cities such as Austin, Dallas, and Houston.

For a single individual, estimated monthly expenses can range from approximately $2,162 to $3,567. A family of four might anticipate monthly costs between $4,080 and $5,021. To maintain a comfortable standard of living, a typical family with two adults and two children may need to earn around $92,055 annually.

Housing Expenses

The median home sale price in San Antonio has recently been around $256,000 to $308,101. This range is notably lower than the national median, with San Antonio’s housing costs estimated to be 21% to 31% less than the U.S. average. For renters, the average monthly rent in San Antonio was approximately $1,095 as of August 2025, which is about 33% lower than the national average. A one-bedroom apartment typically costs between $955 and $1,250 per month. For a two-bedroom residence, renters can expect to pay anywhere from $1,186 to $1,517 monthly.

Transportation Costs

Transportation expenses in San Antonio are generally lower than the national average, often by about 6% to 8.8%. Gasoline prices fluctuate, with recent averages ranging from $2.74 to $3.20 per gallon.

Car insurance in San Antonio averages an annual cost of $2,181 to $2,318 for full coverage. On a monthly basis, this can translate to approximately $177. These rates are slightly higher than both the Texas state average and the national average for car insurance. For those utilizing public transportation, VIA Metropolitan Transit has maintained stable fares, with a monthly bus pass costing around $38.

Food and Utility Expenses

Grocery costs in San Antonio are typically more favorable, generally ranging from 5% to 11% below the national average. A single person might spend between $275 and $400 per month on groceries. For a household of four, the monthly grocery budget could be around $600. Specific item prices reflect this trend, with a gallon of milk costing approximately $4.40 and a dozen eggs around $3.30.

Utility costs in San Antonio are also generally lower than the national average, by about 17% to 18%. An average monthly utility bill for a mid-sized home, encompassing electricity, water, and natural gas, might fall between $165 and $180. While electricity costs can vary, recent estimates suggest an average monthly electric bill of around $170.45. The average water bill is approximately $60.88 per month.

Healthcare and Other Essential Spending

Healthcare expenses in San Antonio tend to be higher than the national average, typically ranging from 7% to 17% above it. For an individual, the average monthly health insurance premium can be around $500 to $510. Specifically, a Silver plan averages about $580 per month.

A standard doctor’s visit may cost around $150, while a dentist appointment averages $125 to $139. Additionally, prescription medication costs in San Antonio are estimated to be 21.4% higher than the national average. Beyond these, other essential spending categories, such as personal care and entertainment, are generally comparable to, or slightly less expensive than, national averages.