This Texas City Is a Top Pick for Retirees Who Love to Save Money and Travel

If you’re looking to enjoy a retirement that’s less about slowing down and more about traveling, exploring, and staying active, you need a retirement destination that supports your goals. But finding a destination that pairs affordability with access to a vibrant community, robust health care networks, and easy travel options isn’t easy—especially if you’re interested in heading down to the Sunbelt.

San Antonio, Texas, however, may have just the mix of affordability and accessibility that adventurous retirees desire. Blending historic charm and modern amenities, this city offers a lifestyle that can support you through all stages of your retirement journey. Let’s take a closer look at what retirement in San Antonio could look like (and cost) for a couple preparing to relocate.

Travel Accessibility

San Antonio International Airport is located just seven miles from downtown, making it easy for retirees to hop on a plane and head off on their next adventure. Though it’s not the largest airport in the state, it offers service from 11 airlines, including major carriers like Alaska Airlines, American, Delta, Spirit, and United. Flights are available to destinations across the continental U.S., as well as Mexico and Puerto Rico.

If you’re looking to travel overseas, Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport is a quick one-hour flight or a roughly 4.5-hour drive away. For San Antonio residents, having the flexibility to choose an airport that suits their needs is especially helpful. 

Getting Around San Antonio

While the city offers the VIA Metropolitan bus system and a bikeshare program, these options are really only practical for those staying within the central downtown areas. Retirees who want to be able to travel farther throughout the city and county will need to drive a car (or prepare to pay for rideshares).

While San Antonio may become your home base, chances are you’ll want to explore more of Texas. Keep in mind, the Lone Star State is massive, totaling 268,599 square miles—second only to Alaska. Traveling to other major metropolitan areas can easily take hours. While Amtrak trains and Greyhound buses provide some intercity routes, options are limited. Still, with a bit of planning, day trips to Hill Country towns or weekend getaways to Austin or Houston are well within reach for retirees.

Cost of Living and Affordability

Despite being a bustling metropolitan area, San Antonio remains relatively affordable—especially when compared to other major Texas cities like Austin or Dallas. For retirees trying to stretch their savings and make the most of a fixed income, this is certainly worth consideration.

Bexar County, where San Antonio is located, has a median household income of $70,571, which is slightly below the national median of $80,610. That being said, home values are lower as well—which can be good news for retirees opting to relocate (especially if you’re moving from an area with a higher cost of living). The median home value in the area is around $244,100, significantly less than the national median of $416,900. 

Monthly Expenses

Monthly housing costs average about $1,318, including mortgage or rent, utilities, insurance, and taxes. Transportation costs hover around $1,173 per month, which we can likely attribute to the high rate of car ownership in the city. Even food costs are reasonable for a city of San Antonio’s size. A couple might spend about $553 per month, or under $140 per week, on groceries and dining.

If you’re seeking the energy of a large city without the price tag that usually comes with it, San Antonio offers a compelling balance. You’ll get access to all the amenities and conveniences of urban living without the high housing costs seen in other metro areas. And with such close proximity to a smaller airport, residents can easily jet off to other areas of the country.

Lifestyle Considerations for Retirees

San Antonio has a little bit of everything for everybody, whether you’re a history buff, foodie, outdoor explorer, or patron of the arts. 

With plenty of sunshine year-round, you’ll have ample opportunity to visit The Alamo, stroll along San Antonio’s Riverwalk, and explore some of the world-famous Tex-Mex restaurants scattered across the city.

Accessing Health Care

Bexar County is home to 71 hospitals and over 4,360 health care facilities. As you consider your retirement destination, it’s important to take into account an increased need for specialized services and ongoing medical care. 

San Antonio has robust resources and greater access to state-of-the-art facilities than some of the smaller, more rural towns of Texas. This may further add to its appeal for aging adults looking to relocate in retirement.

Population Growth

San Antonio is one of the South’s not-so-secret hidden gems, and just as you’re considering moving there, so are many others. Between 2023 and 2024, San Antonio was one of the 15 cities across the country with the largest population growth. It ranked number four, beat out only by New York, Houston, and Los Angeles.

Bexar County as a whole is home to 2,037,344 residents, with San Antonio accounting for over 1.5 million people—more than half the county’s total population.

While you can find pockets within San Antonio of quiet, suburban communities, it’s important to consider that the city is likely going to continue growing around you. For retirees who want a lively backdrop to retirement with easy access to good food and culture, San Antonio may be one city to consider.

Other Things To Consider

San Antonio’s climate will be a draw for many. Winters are mild, and the city enjoys long, sunny summers. However, temperatures from June to September often exceed 90 degrees, and it’s not uncommon for highs to reach well over 100. On average, the city gets about 250 days of sunshine per year and only receives around 32.91 inches of rainfall annually. While this Sunbelt city offers heat-seeking retirees an ideal climate, it may not be for everyone.

If you plan on purchasing a home in San Antonio, keep in mind the impact a natural disaster can have on your financial well-being in retirement. For example, you may need to obtain additional insurance, such as a flood insurance policy, or carry more robust coverage to ensure your property is fully protected. You may also want to spend more on a new home with greater disaster protection or upgrade the property’s infrastructure to better address potential concerns.

The Bottom Line

San Antonio offers a unique blend of affordability, accessibility, and excitement—making it an appealing option for retirees who want to keep traveling well into retirement. With easy access to both domestic and international airports, a reasonable cost of living, health care access, and an abundance of sunshine, this southern Texas city might just be the perfect backdrop for your future retirement.

Before making a move, consider spending a few days exploring the area. Walk the River Walk, check out the restaurants, and test the ease of flying in and out of the city.