It’s often said that retirement is like a fresh beginning or a long vacation, where one gets to start anew and do all the things they couldn’t do while they were younger because work, family life, and other adult responsibilities got in the way. Many of those who want (and can afford) to live their later life to the fullest often choose to pack their bags and move to a different city or region. Some become nomads, pushed by their adventurous spirits to explore new corners of the Earth, while others look for a place where they can settle and live a quiet and peaceful life.
Choosing a retirement destination is never an easy decision as it can have a major impact on one’s health and wellbeing, and therefore requires taking into consideration numerous factors. Judging by the relocation trends in recent years, it appears that an increasing number of elders who prefer to stay in the US after retirement are setting their eyes on San Antonio, Texas.
While larger cities like Dallas, Houston, and Austin have long been regarded as the most suitable locations for retirement in Texas, the Alamo City seems to be catching up fast, boasting a growing community of seniors. So, let’s see what’s driving this trend and prompting so many retirees to make San Antonio their forever home.
The warm climate
Weather is, without a doubt, one of the primary considerations when searching for a nice place to retire, and San Antonio’s warm climate definitely agrees with seniors. After all, who wouldn’t trade long, harsh winters for warmth and sunshine?
Located in south-central Texas, San Antonio has a transitional humid subtropical climate, with hot, dry summers and mild winters. The average temperatures during winter months range from 40°F to 60°F, and there are over 220 sunny days per year. This means that retirees get to enjoy plenty of sunlight and warm weather all year round, which provides opportunities for numerous outdoor activities.
Seniors can take advantage of the warm climate to try their hand at gardening, which seems to be a popular hobby among their age group, as it provides therapeutic benefits and gives them the chance to grow their own produce. Those who don’t have a green thumb and aren’t interested in cultivating one can spend their time exploring and relaxing in one of the many parks and green spaces that the city boasts, or enjoy different open-air activities such as hiking, cycling, or golfing. And when the weather is too hot to roam the outdoors, there are still plenty of things to do in San Antonio since the city hosts numerous events throughout the year.
The favorable housing situation
It’s not just the great weather that is drawing seniors to San Antonio. The housing situation is also a major selling point in this respect. According to recent data, the average home price in San Antonio stands at around $258,000, which is considerably lower than in other major cities in Texas or across the US. To put things into perspective, the national median price for a home is close to $400,000, based on estimates provided by the National Association of Realtors.
Add to that the fact that the cost of living in San Antonio is approximately 9% below the national average, and you can easily see why so many retirees have been flocking to the city in recent years. This makes it easier for seniors to stretch their dollars further and lead a comfortable life, without worrying about financial distress.
Tax benefits
Speaking of finances, another reason why San Antonio is a perfect place for retirement is the tax benefits. As of 2025, there are only eight states in the US that don’t apply taxes on individual income, and Texas is one of them. For many seniors who see their monthly income decrease significantly after retirement, moving to a state that is practically considered a tax haven can make a real difference to the quality of their lives.
The lack of state income tax means that retirees can save up to 13% in taxes every year if we compare their situation to that in California. Texas does have a higher property tax than most states, but with housing being very affordable here, that shouldn’t pose an issue for most residents.
Accessible health care
For seniors, having access to adequate medical care is crucial, since many of them suffer from different health conditions and undergo treatment or have to go to the doctor for regular checkups. Fortunately, the healthcare sector in San Antonio has improved a lot in recent years, with plenty of health centers and medical providers focused on making health services more affordable and accessible for those who need them.
The city has also invested heavily in mental health care initiatives, another topic that directly concerns older adults, who often deal with issues such as depression and anxiety. Overall, there are currently 297 mental health facilities in Texas, so finding skilled mental health providers and attending therapy or counseling sessions near you in San Antonio is easy and convenient.
Rich history and culture
San Antonio is known for its fascinating history and the unique blend of cultures and traditions that is reflected in its architecture and iconic landmarks such as the Alamo, the vibrant art scene, and the local community spirit. The city is also renowned for being home to a large military population, making it a great destination for veterans.
There are plenty of things to see and do in San Antonio, starting with the colorful River Walk where one can taste the finest dishes and listen to live music, to world-class concert halls and theaters, shopping venues, fitness centers, sports events, volunteering centers and so on, so getting bored is highly unlikely.
San Antonio has a lot to offer in terms of housing, tax benefits, healthcare, attractions, and entertainment, so it’s no surprise that this Texan city is fast becoming a go-to destination for retirees from all across the US.
