📊 Lifestyle Match
Visualizing the tradeoffs between Gillette and San Antonio
Head-to-Head Analysis
Gillette vs San Antonio
Detailed breakdown of cost of living, income potential, and lifestyle metrics.
📋 The Details
Line-by-line data comparison.
| Category / Metric | Gillette | San Antonio |
|---|---|---|
| Financial Overview | ||
| Median Income | $90,699 | $62,322 |
| Unemployment Rate | 3.4% | 4.2% |
| Housing Market | ||
| Median Home Price | $359,900 | $264,900 |
| Price per SqFt | $123 | $153 |
| Monthly Rent (1BR) | $921 | $1,197 |
| Housing Cost Index | 111.5 | 94.2 |
| Cost of Living | ||
| Groceries Index | 95.1 | 91.9 |
| Gas Price (Gallon) | $3.40 | $2.35 |
| Safety & Lifestyle | ||
| Violent Crime (per 100k) | 234.2 | 798.0 |
| Bachelor's Degree+ | 23.1% | 30.5% |
| Air Quality (AQI) | 36 | 39 |
Expert Verdict
AI-generated analysis based on current data.
San Antonio vs. Gillette: The Ultimate Head-to-Head Showdown
Let’s be real: choosing between San Antonio and Gillette is like picking between a bustling, historic fiesta and a quiet, rugged campfire. One is a massive, culturally rich metropolis; the other is a tight-knit energy hub nestled in the Wyoming plains. If you’re here, you’re considering a move that’s anything but ordinary. As your relocation guide, I’m here to cut through the noise, crunch the numbers, and tell you straight up which city is the right fit for your life.
The Vibe Check: Culture & Lifestyle
San Antonio is the seventh-largest city in the U.S. and the heart of South Texas. It’s a city of contrasts: the historic Alamo sits beside modern skyscrapers, and the famous River Walk’s serene ambiance is just a few blocks away from the electric energy of the San Antonio Spurs’ arena. The culture is deeply rooted in Tex-Mex heritage, military history (home to multiple Air Force bases), and a surprisingly vibrant arts scene. Life here moves at a distinctively friendly, laid-back pace, but with the amenities of a major metro. It’s for the person who wants access to endless dining, diverse neighborhoods, and a strong sense of community without the frenetic pace of Austin or Houston.
Gillette, on the other hand, is the "Energy Capital of the Nation." Located in northeastern Wyoming, it’s a small city (population ~33k) surrounded by vast, open plains and dramatic buttes. The vibe is quintessential West: self-reliant, outdoorsy, and deeply connected to the land. Life revolves around coal, natural gas, and wind energy, but also around hunting, fishing, and hiking in the nearby Black Hills. It’s a place where you know your neighbors, traffic is a non-issue, and the skies are unobstructed by light pollution. This is the city for someone who craves solitude, physical space, and a direct connection to nature, away from the urban sprawl.
Who It’s For:
- San Antonio: Families, foodies, history buffs, military personnel, and anyone who wants big-city amenities in a warmer, culturally rich environment.
- Gillette: Outdoor enthusiasts, energy sector professionals, remote workers seeking quiet, and people who prioritize a low-crime, tight-knit community over nightlife.
The Dollar Power: Cost of Living & Salary
This is where the rubber meets the road. You need to know where your paycheck will stretch further.
Purchasing Power Wars:
Let’s say you earn a median salary in each city. In San Antonio, with a median income of $62,322, you’ll feel the squeeze on housing, but utilities and groceries are relatively manageable. The state of Texas has 0% state income tax, which is a massive boost to your take-home pay. However, property taxes are high, which can offset that benefit if you own a home.
In Gillette, the median income is significantly higher at $90,699. This is largely due to high-paying jobs in the energy sector. Wyoming also has 0% state income tax, and its property taxes are among the lowest in the nation. However, the cost of goods (groceries, car parts, furniture) is often higher due to transportation costs to a remote location.
Where does $100k feel like more?
If you earn $100k in Gillette, your purchasing power is exceptionally strong. You can afford a median home comfortably and still have plenty left for savings and recreation. In San Antonio, $100k is a great salary, but you’ll likely be looking at a median home that’s a bit more expensive relative to your income, and you’ll be competing in a much larger market.
Cost of Living Comparison Table
| Category | San Antonio | Gillette | The Takeaway |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $264,900 | $359,900 | Gillette is 35% more expensive for a home. |
| Rent (1BR) | $1,197 | $921 | San Antonio rent is 30% higher for a 1BR. |
| Housing Index | 94.2 | 111.5 | Gillette’s housing market is tighter and pricier relative to national averages. |
| Utilities | Moderate (High A/C costs) | Low (Mild summers, very cold winters) | Gillette wins on summer cooling; San Antonio wins on winter heating. |
| Groceries | Low to Moderate | High | Expect to pay a premium for goods in remote Wyoming. |
| State Income Tax | 0% | 0% | A tie—both are tax-friendly states for income. |
The Verdict on Dollar Power: While Gillette offers higher median incomes and lower taxes, the sticker shock of housing and daily goods can be a reality. San Antonio provides more affordable entry points for renters and lower overall costs for daily life, making it easier to live comfortably on a median salary.
The Housing Market: Buy vs. Rent
San Antonio: This is a seller’s market with high competition. While the median home price of $264,900 seems accessible, inventory moves fast, and bidding wars are common, especially for well-priced homes in good neighborhoods. Renting is a viable option, with decent availability, but prices are rising steadily. The city’s growth is relentless, so buying now could be a smart long-term investment.
Gillette: The housing market here is a balanced, yet tight market. With a smaller population and limited new construction, inventory is scarce. The median home price of $359,900 is a barrier for many, but the higher local incomes help offset it. Renting is surprisingly affordable compared to buying, but options are limited. You’ll need to be decisive. For those who can afford the entry price, owning here is stable, with a strong community of homeowners.
Insight: In San Antonio, the challenge is competition and rising prices. In Gillette, the challenge is the sheer cost of entry and limited options. If you’re a first-time buyer, San Antonio’s lower median price might be more approachable, but you’ll fight for it. In Gillette, you pay more upfront but face less competition.
The Dealbreakers: Quality of Life
This is where personal preference trumps data.
Traffic & Commute:
- San Antonio: Traffic is real. The I-10, I-35, and Loop 1604 can be congested during rush hour. Commutes can easily hit 30-60 minutes depending on where you live and work. It’s a car-dependent city.
- Gillette: Traffic is virtually non-existent. A commute across town is typically under 10 minutes. This is a massive quality-of-life upgrade for those who hate sitting in gridlock.
Weather:
- San Antonio: The data point is N/A, but the reality is hot. Expect scorching summers (90°F+ for months), high humidity, mild winters, and the occasional severe thunderstorm. It’s a trade-off for mild winters.
- Gillette: The data shows a mild average of 52.0°F, but that’s misleading. Winters are bitterly cold with deep snow and frequent sub-zero temperatures. Summers are mild and dry. This is a four-season climate with extreme winter conditions.
Crime & Safety:
- San Antonio: Violent crime rate is 798.0/100,000. This is significantly higher than the national average. Safety varies drastically by neighborhood—some are extremely safe, while others have higher crime rates. Research is critical.
- Gillette: Violent crime rate is 234.2/100,000, which is well below the national average. It’s a very safe community where people often leave doors unlocked. This is a major point in Gillette’s favor for safety-conscious movers.
Safety & Climate at a Glance
| Factor | San Antonio | Gillette | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Violent Crime | 798.0/100k | 234.2/100k | Gillette (By a landslide) |
| Summer Highs | 90°F+ (Humid) | 80°F (Dry) | Gillette (If you hate humidity) |
| Winter Lows | Mild (Rarely freezes) | 10°F (Often below zero) | San Antonio (If you hate extreme cold) |
The Verdict: Who Wins Where?
After breaking it all down, here’s the clear, no-nonsense verdict.
Winner for Families: San Antonio
Why: Despite higher crime rates, San Antonio offers family-centric amenities that Gillette can’t match: top-tier schools (in specific districts), countless parks, the San Antonio Zoo, SeaWorld, and endless family-friendly events. The cultural exposure for children is immense. The housing is more affordable, allowing for a larger home with a yard. The biggest factor is activities—there is always something to do with kids, year-round.
Winner for Singles/Young Professionals: San Antonio
Why: Career opportunities are vastly more diverse in San Antonio. Beyond the military, it has a growing tech sector, healthcare, and education industries. The nightlife, restaurant scene, and social opportunities are on a completely different scale. You can build a network, date, and explore hobbies in a way that’s simply not possible in a small town. Gillette’s social scene is limited to community events and outdoor clubs.
Winner for Retirees: Gillette
Why: If you’re retired and prioritize safety, low taxes, and access to outdoor recreation, Gillette is a strong contender. The low crime rate provides peace of mind, and the lack of state income tax helps fixed incomes go further. The cost of living, while higher for goods, is manageable on a retirement budget, and the community is welcoming. However, you must be prepared for harsh winters and the need to drive long distances for specialized healthcare.
Final Pros & Cons
San Antonio
Pros:
- Cultural Richness: Unbeatable food, history, and festivals.
- Affordable Median Home Price: Entry point is lower than many major metros.
- Diverse Economy: Jobs in healthcare, military, tech, and tourism.
- Big-City Amenities: Pro sports, major airports, large universities.
- 0% State Income Tax: Keeps more of your paycheck.
Cons:
- High Violent Crime: Be a savvy neighborhood researcher.
- Traffic & Commutes: Can be frustrating and time-consuming.
- Extreme Summer Heat & Humidity: Not for everyone.
- Competitive Housing Market: Bidding wars are common.
Gillette
Pros:
- Extremely Low Crime: One of the safest communities in the U.S.
- 0% State Income Tax & Low Property Taxes: Excellent for homeowners.
- Zero Traffic: Stress-free commutes and errands.
- Outdoor Paradise: Immediate access to hunting, fishing, hiking, and skiing.
- Strong Local Economy: High-paying energy jobs.
Cons:
- High Cost of Goods: Everything from groceries to car repairs costs more.
- Limited Amenities: Few chain stores, limited dining/entertainment options.
- Isolated Location: Far from major cities and airports.
- Extreme Winters: Harsh, long, and cold.
- Small-Town Social Life: Can feel limiting for singles and younger people.
The Bottom Line: Choose San Antonio if you crave culture, variety, and career options, and are willing to navigate a competitive, bustling city. Choose Gillette if your priority is safety, space, and the outdoors, and you’re ready for a quieter, more self-reliant lifestyle. Your perfect city is the one that matches your non-negotiables.