📊 Lifestyle Match
Visualizing the tradeoffs between Everett and San Antonio
Head-to-Head Analysis
Everett vs San Antonio
Detailed breakdown of cost of living, income potential, and lifestyle metrics.
📋 The Details
Line-by-line data comparison.
| Category / Metric | Everett | San Antonio |
|---|---|---|
| Financial Overview | ||
| Median Income | $74,276 | $62,322 |
| Unemployment Rate | 4.6% | 4.2% |
| Housing Market | ||
| Median Home Price | $564,990 | $264,900 |
| Price per SqFt | $362 | $153 |
| Monthly Rent (1BR) | $1,864 | $1,197 |
| Housing Cost Index | 151.5 | 94.2 |
| Cost of Living | ||
| Groceries Index | 107.9 | 91.9 |
| Gas Price (Gallon) | $3.65 | $2.35 |
| Safety & Lifestyle | ||
| Violent Crime (per 100k) | 567.0 | 798.0 |
| Bachelor's Degree+ | 32.2% | 30.5% |
| Air Quality (AQI) | 34 | 39 |
Expert Verdict
AI-generated analysis based on current data.
San Antonio vs. Everett: The Ultimate Head-to-Head Showdown
So, you’re caught between the Alamo City and the Pacific Northwest. On one hand, you’ve got San Antonio—a sprawling, sun-drenched metropolis with deep Texan roots and a vibe that’s equal parts historic charm and modern growth. On the other, you’ve got Everett—a compact, Pacific-facing city in Washington State, nestled between the Puget Sound and the Cascade Mountains, offering a more intimate, nature-adjacent lifestyle.
This isn’t just another spreadsheet comparison. This is a real-world, "where-should-I-put-my-life" decision. We’re going to break it down dollar-by-dollar, degree-by-degree, and vibe-by-vibe. Grab your coffee, settle in, and let’s figure out which of these two vastly different cities is your next home.
The Vibe Check: Culture, Lifestyle & Who It’s For
San Antonio: The Lone Star Melting Pot
San Antonio is a city that wears its history on its sleeve. The River Walk, the missions, the Alamo—it’s a living museum. But it’s also a booming modern city. The vibe is laid-back, family-oriented, and unpretentious. It’s a place where you’ll see a mix of cultures, hear Spanish spoken on every corner, and find a deep sense of community. The energy is warm (literally and figuratively). It’s big, but neighborhoods feel distinct and tight-knit. Think: great tacos, military presence, and a booming tech and healthcare sector.
- Who is San Antonio for? Families looking for space and a strong sense of community. Young professionals who want big-city amenities without the Big Apple price tag. Foodies and history buffs. Anyone who thrives in sunshine and doesn’t mind the heat.
Everett: The Pacific Northwest Grit & Grace
Everett is a different beast entirely. It’s a working-class port city with a stunning natural backdrop. The vibe is outdoorsy, industrious, and quietly progressive. You’re minutes from hiking trails, kayaking in the Sound, or skiing in the Cascades. The city itself is less about flashy nightlife and more about community events, local breweries, and a strong maker scene. It’s smaller, denser, and feels more like a large town than a major metro. The air is fresh, the coffee is serious, and the pace is deliberate.
- Who is Everett for? Outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Professionals in aerospace or tech (thanks to Boeing). Those who prefer a smaller community feel with easy access to big-city Seattle. People who value green space and a more temperate (if gray) climate over relentless sun.
Verdict: If you want a warm, large, culturally rich city with a distinct Southern flair, San Antonio is your spot. If you crave mountains, water, and a tight-knit, outdoorsy community, Everett wins the vibe check.
The Dollar Power: Cost of Living & Salary Wars
This is where the rubber meets the road. We’re not just comparing sticker prices; we’re talking purchasing power. Where does your paycheck actually stretch further?
Let’s get the data on the table.
| Category | San Antonio, TX | Everett, WA | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Income | $62,322 | $74,276 | Everett |
| Median Home Price | $264,900 | $564,990 | San Antonio |
| Rent (1BR) | $1,197 | $1,864 | San Antonio |
| Housing Index | 94.2 | 151.5 | San Antonio |
| Sales Tax | 8.25% | 9.5%+ (varies by district) | San Antonio |
| State Income Tax | 0% | ~5-7% (Progressive) | San Antonio |
The Salary Wars: Purchasing Power Explained
At first glance, Everett’s median income looks better—$74,276 vs. $62,322. A $12k difference. But let’s run the numbers. The biggest expense in anyone’s life is housing, and here’s where the story flips dramatically.
- In San Antonio: With a median home price of $264,900, a 20% down payment is about $53,000. A mortgage on that home (at 7% interest) would be roughly $1,400/month (principal & interest). Add taxes and insurance, and you’re looking at ~$1,700/month. For a renter, a $1,197 1BR is very manageable on that income.
- In Everett: With a median home price of $564,990, a 20% down payment is a staggering $113,000. That same mortgage would be $3,000/month (P&I), pushing the total monthly payment to ~$3,600+. Renting isn’t much better at $1,864 for a 1BR.
The Texas Tax Advantage: This is the knockout punch. Texas has 0% state income tax. Washington has a state income tax that can range from 5% to 7% for this income bracket, depending on deductions. On a $74,276 salary in Everett, you could pay $4,000-$5,000 more in state taxes annually than you would in Texas. That’s $300-$400 less in your paycheck every single month, before you even pay your higher housing costs.
The Bottom Line: If you earn $100,000 in San Antonio, your purchasing power is massively higher. You can afford a nice home, a decent car, and still have money for tacos and the River Walk. In Everett, that same $100,000 salary gets stretched thin by housing and taxes. Sticker shock is real in the PNW.
Verdict: San Antonio is the undisputed champion for dollar power. Your money simply goes much further here.
The Housing Market: Buy vs. Rent & The Competition
San Antonio: A Buyer’s (Mostly) Market
With a median home price under $300k, San Antonio is one of the last major metros in the U.S. where homeownership is within reach for the middle class. The market is active but not typically frenzied like Austin or Seattle. You’ll find a good inventory of single-family homes, especially in the suburbs. Renting is also competitive with plenty of options, keeping prices in check.
Everett: A Seller’s Market with a Ceiling
Everett’s housing market is fierce. With a median price of $564,990, it’s nearly double San Antonio’s. Given its proximity to Seattle (where prices are even higher), it’s a sought-after hub for commuters. Competition is stiff, bidding wars are common, and inventory is often low. Renting is expensive, and vacancy rates are tight. For most, buying here requires a significant income, a large down payment, or a willingness to settle for a condo/townhome.
Verdict: For buyers, San Antonio offers opportunity and accessibility. For renters, San Antonio is also the clear winner on price and availability. Everett’s market is for those with deeper pockets or a specific career tie to the region.
The Dealbreakers: Quality of Life
This is where personal preference trumps data.
Traffic & Commute:
- San Antonio: Traffic is a challenge, especially on I-35 and I-10 during rush hour. The city is spread out, so a car is a non-negotiable necessity. Commute times can be long if you live far from work.
- Everett: Traffic exists but is more manageable than in Seattle. The city is more compact, and many residents work locally (Boeing, Port of Everett) or commute to Seattle via the I-5 corridor, which can be a predictable but busy drive. Public transit (buses, commuter rail) is a more viable option in Everett than in San Antonio.
Weather:
- San Antonio: Hot. Summers are long and brutally hot, with highs regularly in the 90°F+ range and high humidity. Winters are mild (rarely freezing), but you get the occasional ice storm. You trade four true seasons for about 8 months of summer.
- Everett: Cool, Gray, and Green. Expect a temperate marine climate: cool summers (avg. 70°F), mild winters (avg. 48°F), and lots of overcast skies, especially from fall to spring. Rain is frequent but usually a drizzle, not a downpour. You get four distinct, mild seasons with stunning greenery year-round. Snow is rare in the city itself.
Crime & Safety:
This is a tough but necessary conversation. Using the provided data (Violent Crimes per 100k):
- San Antonio: 798.0/100k
- Everett: 567.0/100k
Context is key. San Antonio’s rate is higher than the national average (approx. 380/100k), but it’s a large, dense city, and crime is often concentrated in specific areas. Everett’s rate is also above the national average but lower than San Antonio’s. Both cities have safe neighborhoods, but as in any urban area, you must research specific areas. Generally, Everett feels more "small-town safe" due to its size, while San Antonio requires more urban awareness.
Verdict: For weather, it’s a personal call: San Antonio for sun lovers, Everett for those who prefer mild temps and greenery. For traffic/commute, Everett has a slight edge. For safety, Everett has statistically lower crime, but both require neighborhood-specific research.
The Verdict: Which City Wins for YOU?
After weighing the data, the culture, and the costs, here’s our final, no-fluff verdict.
Winner for Families: San Antonio
Why: The math is undeniable. A family can afford a $265k home on a median income, with 0% state income tax to boot. The city is packed with kid-friendly activities (zoos, parks, museums, the River Walk), has a strong public school system (with many charter options), and a community-centric culture. The weather allows for year-round outdoor play (if you can handle the heat).
Winner for Singles & Young Professionals: San Antonio
Why: Unless your career is specifically in aerospace or you’re a die-hard PNW nature devotee, San Antonio offers a better launchpad. The lower cost of living means you can save money, pay off student loans, and still enjoy a vibrant food and arts scene. The social scene is lively, and the dating pool is large. Everett is great, but it’s a specific taste.
Winner for Retirees: San Antonio
Why: For retirees on a fixed income, San Antonio is a financial sanctuary. No state income tax, affordable property taxes (compared to many states), and a $265k home means your retirement savings goes much further. The warm climate is easier on arthritic joints, and the city’s walkable historic districts (like King William) offer charm without the need for constant travel. Everett’s gray winters and higher costs can be a challenge on a fixed budget.
Final Pros & Cons Lists
San Antonio, TX
PROS:
- Incredible Value: Low cost of living, especially housing.
- 0% State Income Tax: More money in your pocket.
- Vibrant Culture & Food: A world-class culinary and arts scene.
- Family-Friendly: Endless activities, strong community feel.
- Job Growth: Thriving in healthcare, military, and tech.
CONS:
- Brutal Summers: Heat and humidity can be oppressive for 5-6 months.
- Car-Dependent: Public transit is limited; you’ll drive everywhere.
- Higher Crime Rate: Needs careful neighborhood selection.
- Traffic Congestion: Can be significant on major highways.
Everett, WA
PROS:
- Outdoor Paradise: Unbeatable access to mountains, water, and forests.
- Milder Climate: No extreme heat or cold; four distinct seasons.
- Smaller-Town Feel: Easier to build community in a more compact city.
- Proximity to Seattle: Big-city amenities are a short drive away.
- Lower Crime (vs. SA): Statistically safer than San Antonio.
CONS:
- High Cost of Living: Especially housing, which is nearly double SA’s.
- State Income Tax: Reduces purchasing power.
- Gray Winters: Lack of sunshine from November to April can affect mood.
- Competitive Market: Hard to buy or rent without a high income.
- Limited Options: Fewer cultural and entertainment venues than a major metro.
The Bottom Line: Choose San Antonio if your priority is financial freedom, space, and a warm, lively culture. Choose Everett if your priority is nature, a milder climate, and a smaller community, and you’re willing to pay a premium for it.
Wherever you land, make sure it’s a place that feels like home. Good luck