Homes for Sale Under 500K in San Antonio, TX

Denver Heights and the West Side are among San Antonio's most affordable areas. Denver Heights homes typically range from $150,000 to $220,000, about ten minutes from downtown. Lackland Terrace and South San Antonio also offer below-median home prices. San Antonio's citywide median sits near $247,500, well below Austin or Dallas.

San Antonio draws much of its drinking water from the Edwards Aquifer. Growth over its recharge zone has sparked ongoing development disputes. If you're buying on the city's edges, check whether the area is in the recharge zone. You should also confirm who supplies water and if conservation restrictions apply.

Alamo Heights, Hollywood Park, and Fair Oaks Ranch rank among the safest areas. These communities report property and violent crime rates well below citywide averages. Fair Oaks Ranch and Hollywood Park maintain their own dedicated police departments. Active homeowner associations and community-watch programs reinforce neighborhood safety.

The median home sale price in San Antonio is approximately $247,500 as of mid-2026. You should also budget for closing costs, property taxes, homeowners insurance, and HOA fees. Bexar County's effective property tax rate averages around 1.73%, above the state median. Flood insurance may add costs if your property sits in a FEMA flood zone.

Yes, San Antonio is one of the strongest VA loan markets in the country. Joint Base San Antonio includes Fort Sam Houston, Lackland AFB, and Randolph AFB. With full entitlement, you face no VA loan limit and can buy with zero down. The 2026 conforming loan limit of $832,750 only applies if your entitlement is partial.

Buying in San Antonio makes sense if you plan to stay at least three to four years. That's roughly when your equity gains begin to offset closing costs and upfront fees. Renting works better for shorter stays, avoiding property taxes and maintenance costs. Your decision depends on how long you'll stay and your available cash.

San Antonio's median household income is $65,056 per year. This figure is about 16% below the national median of $77,719. The lower income is offset partly by San Antonio's below-average cost of living. Texas has no state income tax, which also boosts your take-home pay.

Most suburban HOA fees in San Antonio range from $150 to $350 per month. Your actual cost depends on the community's amenities and whether the neighborhood is gated. Some master-planned communities with pools and clubhouses may charge more. Always review the HOA's financials and rules before buying.

San Antonio offers home prices well below Austin and Dallas, plus no state income tax. A strong military presence through Joint Base San Antonio anchors steady employment opportunities. However, summers regularly exceed 100°F, which drives up your utility bills significantly. Bexar County property tax rates also run higher than the Texas state average.

Flood insurance is only mandatory if your home is in a FEMA Special Flood Hazard Area. You'll also need a federally backed mortgage for this requirement to apply. However, FEMA recommends coverage even for homes outside designated flood zones. You should always check a property's specific flood zone designation before buying.