📊 Lifestyle Match
Visualizing the tradeoffs between Burlington and San Antonio
Head-to-Head Analysis
Burlington vs San Antonio
Detailed breakdown of cost of living, income potential, and lifestyle metrics.
📋 The Details
Line-by-line data comparison.
| Category / Metric | Burlington | San Antonio |
|---|---|---|
| Financial Overview | ||
| Median Income | $68,854 | $62,322 |
| Unemployment Rate | 2.6% | 4.2% |
| Housing Market | ||
| Median Home Price | $551,600 | $264,900 |
| Price per SqFt | $342 | $153 |
| Monthly Rent (1BR) | $1,441 | $1,197 |
| Housing Cost Index | 101.7 | 94.2 |
| Cost of Living | ||
| Groceries Index | 96.3 | 91.9 |
| Gas Price (Gallon) | $3.40 | $2.35 |
| Safety & Lifestyle | ||
| Violent Crime (per 100k) | 173.3 | 798.0 |
| Bachelor's Degree+ | 60.5% | 30.5% |
| Air Quality (AQI) | 36 | 39 |
Expert Verdict
AI-generated analysis based on current data.
San Antonio vs. Burlington: An Epic Head-to-Head Showdown
Choosing where to plant your roots is one of life's biggest decisions. It’s not just about a job or a house—it’s about the rhythm of your days, the community you build, and the daily grind (or lack thereof). Today, we’re throwing two utterly different American cities into the ring: the sprawling, sun-drenched metropolis of San Antonio, Texas, and the compact, four-season jewel of Burlington, Vermont.
This isn't a fair fight in the traditional sense. Comparing a city of 1.4 million souls to a town of 44,000 is like comparing a family-sized SUV to a nimble sports car. Both will get you where you need to go, but the ride, the fuel efficiency, and the destinations are worlds apart.
So, grab a coffee (or a sweet tea, if you’re leaning Texas). Let’s break down the data, the vibes, and the real-life implications of choosing between these two powerhouses.
The Vibe Check: Alamo City vs. The Queen City
First impressions matter. What does each city feel like on a Tuesday afternoon?
San Antonio: The Laid-Back Giant
San Antonio is a city of contrasts. It’s a modern, booming tech and medical hub wrapped in centuries of history. You can spend your morning in a downtown innovation district and your afternoon strolling the iconic River Walk, lined with restaurants and mariachi bands. The culture is overwhelmingly Texan—warm, friendly, and proud. It’s a city where "Southern hospitality" meets "large-scale sprawl." The vibe is warm, family-oriented, and historically rich, but it’s also car-dependent and sprawling. It’s perfect for someone who wants the amenities of a major city (major league sports, a world-class zoo, a vibrant food scene) without the frantic pace or price tag of New York or San Francisco.
Burlington: The Compact, Outdoorsy Haven
Burlington feels like a small town that punches way above its weight. Nestled on the shores of Lake Champlain, with the Green Mountains as a backdrop, it’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The city is compact, walkable, and bikeable. The vibe is progressive, eco-conscious, and active. It’s a college town (thanks to the University of Vermont) with a strong arts scene and a farm-to-table ethos. Life here revolves around the seasons: hiking and sailing in summer, leaf-peeping in fall, skiing in winter, and maple syrup in spring. It’s for someone who values community, nature, and a slower, more intentional pace of life over sheer scale and sprawl.
Who’s It For?
- San Antonio is for families looking for space, young professionals seeking a low-cost entry into a major city, and history buffs.
- Burlington is for active singles, outdoor lovers, retirees seeking a scenic and safe community, and those who prioritize walkability and a strong sense of place.
The Dollar Power: Where Does Your Salary Stretch Further?
Let’s talk money. In the age of inflation, "bang for your buck" is everything. We’ll use a baseline of a $100,000 salary to see the purchasing power in each city.
The Tax Factor: The Texas Advantage
This is the elephant in the room. Texas has 0% state income tax. Vermont, on the other hand, has a progressive income tax system with rates ranging from 3.35% to 8.75%. For a $100,000 earner in Vermont, you could be paying around $4,000-$5,000 more per year to the state than you would in Texas. This is a massive, immediate win for San Antonio.
Cost of Living Breakdown
Here’s a direct comparison of everyday expenses (National Average = 100):
| Expense Category | San Antonio | Burlington | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Housing Index | 94.2 (7% below avg) | 101.7 (1.7% above avg) | San Antonio |
| Median Home Price | $264,900 | $551,600 | San Antonio |
| Rent (1BR) | $1,197 | $1,441 | San Antonio |
| Utilities | $150-$200 (AC is king) | $200-$250 (Heating is king) | Slight Edge: San Antonio |
| Groceries | ~5% below national avg | ~3% above national avg | San Antonio |
| Transportation | ~10% below avg (car-dependent) | ~5% below avg (walkable) | Tie |
Purchasing Power Verdict:
With a $100,000 salary in San Antonio, you are living large. Your effective tax burden is lower, your housing costs are over 50% cheaper (both to buy and rent), and your daily expenses are slightly lower. That same salary in Burlington feels tighter. The housing market is the primary killer; the median home price is over double that of San Antonio. Your $100k will go significantly further in Texas, allowing for a larger home, more disposable income for travel or savings, and a generally less stressful financial life.
Callout Box: The Purchasing Power Winner
San Antonio is the clear champion for raw financial power. The combination of 0% state income tax and dramatically lower housing costs means your paycheck stretches much, much further. In Burlington, you’re paying a premium for the scenery and safety, and that premium is steep.
The Housing Market: Buy vs. Rent
San Antonio: A Buyer’s Market?
The median home price of $264,900 is incredibly attractive for a major U.S. city. It’s a gateway to homeownership for many. The market is competitive but not cutthroat. You get more square footage for your dollar, often with a yard. The downside? You’ll almost certainly need a car. The sprawl is real, and your commute could be significant if you work downtown but live in the suburbs (like Alamo Heights or Stone Oak). Renting is a viable, affordable option, with plenty of inventory.
Burlington: A Seller’s Market with Scarcity
Burlington’s housing market is a different beast entirely. With a median home price of $551,600, affordability is a major challenge, especially for first-time buyers. The market is tight, with low inventory driving up prices. You’re paying for location—walkability, lake views, mountain access, and safety. Renting is also expensive, and competition for desirable apartments is fierce. You get less space for your money, but you gain the ability to live car-free in many neighborhoods.
The Verdict on Housing:
- For Buyers: San Antonio is the hands-down winner for affordability and availability. You can own a home here on a median income.
- For Renters: San Antonio is also more affordable, but if you can afford the premium, Burlington offers a unique, walkable lifestyle that’s hard to find in Texas.
The Dealbreakers: Quality of Life Factors
This is where personal preference truly kicks in.
Traffic & Commute
- San Antonio: The commute is a major factor. The city is built for cars. Traffic on I-10, I-35, and Loop 1604 can be heavy, especially during rush hour. Average commute times are around 25-30 minutes, but can be much longer depending on your location and job. Car ownership is non-negotiable for most.
- Burlington: Traffic is a foreign concept here. The city is small, and public transit (CTV) is decent. Many residents bike or walk to work. The average commute is under 20 minutes. You can live a car-lite or even car-free life here, which is a huge quality-of-life upgrade for many.
Weather: Humidity vs. Snow
- San Antonio: Welcome to the Texas heat. Summers are long, brutal, and humid, with temperatures regularly soaring above 95°F for months. Winters are mild and short. If you hate the cold, San Antonio is your paradise. If you hate oppressive heat and humidity, it’s a dealbreaker.
- Burlington: You get the full four-season experience. Winters are cold and snowy (average temp in January is ~20°F, with significant snowfall). Summers are warm and beautiful, but brief. Fall is spectacular. If you love seasonal change and winter sports, it’s perfect. If you dread shoveling snow and driving in ice, it’s a hard pass.
Crime & Safety: A Stark Contrast
This is the most significant data point in our showdown.
- San Antonio: Violent crime rate is 798.0 per 100,000. This is notably higher than the national average (~398 per 100k). Safety varies dramatically by neighborhood. Some areas are perfectly safe, while others struggle. You must be savvy about where you live and work.
- Burlington: Violent crime rate is 173.3 per 100,000. This is exceptionally low, even for a small city. It’s one of the safest places in America. The peace of mind this provides is priceless for many, particularly families and retirees.
Callout Box: The Safety Verdict
Burlington is the undisputed winner for safety. With a violent crime rate less than a quarter of San Antonio’s, it offers a level of security and peace of mind that’s hard to match. This is a major, non-negotiable factor for many relocators.
The Final Verdict: Who Wins Your Relocation?
It comes down to your priorities. There is no universal "best" city, only the best city for you.
Winner for Families: San Antonio
Why: The math is undeniable. A family earning $100,000 can afford a large home with a yard ($264,900 median price vs. $551,600), excellent schools (in certain districts), and endless family activities (zoos, theme parks, museums). The lower cost of living reduces financial stress. The trade-off is higher crime and a car-dependent lifestyle, but the financial freedom and space are compelling for growing families.
Winner for Singles & Young Professionals: It Depends on Your Vibe
- Choose San Antonio if you want a low cost of living in a major city, a vibrant social and food scene, and career opportunities in tech, healthcare, or military sectors. Your salary goes far, allowing for travel and fun.
- Choose Burlington if you prioritize an active, outdoor lifestyle, a progressive and tight-knit community, and a walkable, safe environment. You’ll pay more for rent and daily life, but you’re buying a unique, high-quality-of-life experience.
Winner for Retirees: Burlington
Why: Safety is paramount in retirement. Burlington’s low crime rate (173.3/100k) is a massive draw. The walkability, access to nature, and four-season beauty provide a fulfilling and active retirement. While the cost of living is higher, retirees often have fixed incomes, and the peace of mind is worth the premium. San Antonio’s heat and higher crime can be challenging for older adults.
Final Pros & Cons Breakdown
San Antonio, Texas
Pros:
- Unbeatable Affordability: Low home prices, rent, and 0% state income tax.
- Major City Amenities: Pro sports, world-class healthcare, diverse job market, endless dining/entertainment.
- Rich Culture & History: Unique blend of Texan, Mexican, and Spanish influences.
- Warm Weather: Mild winters, perfect for cold-weather avoiders.
Cons:
- High Crime Rate: Requires careful neighborhood selection.
- Car-Dependent: Sprawling layout makes a car a necessity.
- Brutal Summer Heat & Humidity: Can be oppressive for months.
- Traffic: Significant congestion on major highways.
Burlington, Vermont
Pros:
- Exceptional Safety: One of the safest cities in the U.S.
- Outdoor Paradise: Unparalleled access to hiking, skiing, sailing, and biking.
- Walkable & Bikeable: Easy to live without a car in many neighborhoods.
- Clean, Green, and Progressive: Strong sense of community and environmental values.
Cons:
- Extreme Housing Costs: Median home price over $550k is a huge barrier.
- High State Taxes: Progressive income tax eats into your salary.
- Harsh Winters: Long, cold, and snowy winters can be a dealbreaker.
- Limited Scale: Fewer major corporate HQs and less economic diversity.
The Bottom Line: If your priority is financial freedom, space, and big-city amenities on a budget, San Antonio is your champion. If your priority is safety, nature, walkability, and a tight-knit community, and you can afford the premium, Burlington is your paradise. Choose wisely.