Head-to-Head Analysis

Levittown CDP vs San Antonio

Detailed breakdown of cost of living, income potential, and lifestyle metrics.

Levittown CDP
Candidate A

Levittown CDP

PA
Cost Index 103.5
Median Income $102k
Rent (1BR) $1190
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San Antonio
Candidate B

San Antonio

TX
Cost Index 93.7
Median Income $62k
Rent (1BR) $1197
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📊 Lifestyle Match

Visualizing the tradeoffs between Levittown CDP and San Antonio

đź“‹ The Details

Line-by-line data comparison.

Category / Metric Levittown CDP San Antonio
Financial Overview
Median Income $101,619 $62,322
Unemployment Rate 4.2% 4.2%
Housing Market
Median Home Price $311,000 $264,900
Price per SqFt $null $153
Monthly Rent (1BR) $1,190 $1,197
Housing Cost Index 117.8 94.2
Cost of Living
Groceries Index 100.3 91.9
Gas Price (Gallon) $3.40 $2.35
Safety & Lifestyle
Violent Crime (per 100k) 413.7 798.0
Bachelor's Degree+ 25.1% 30.5%
Air Quality (AQI) 30 39

Expert Verdict

AI-generated analysis based on current data.

San Antonio vs. Levittown CDP: The Ultimate Head-to-Head Showdown

You’re staring down the barrel of a relocation, and you’ve boiled it down to two contenders: the sprawling, historic metropolis of San Antonio, Texas, and the tight-knit, suburban community of Levittown, New York (CDP). One is a city of a million-plus with a culture all its own; the other is a modest slice of Long Island life. It’s not just a choice of geography—it’s a choice of lifestyle, budget, and what you want your daily life to feel like.

As your relocation expert, I’m here to cut through the noise. This isn’t a dry recitation of stats; it’s a real-world comparison to help you decide where you’ll thrive. Let’s dive in.

The Vibe Check: Culture & Lifestyle

San Antonio is a city that doesn't whisper; it sings. It’s a vibrant blend of deep Texan roots, Mexican heritage, and modern military and tech influence. The River Walk is a tourist mecca, but the real magic is in the neighborhoods—from the historic King William District to the trendy Pearl District. Life here moves at a different pace. It’s family-friendly, with a booming food scene, major sports teams (Go Spurs!), and a calendar packed with festivals. The vibe is laid-back but energetic, with a strong sense of community and a "keep Austin weird" sister city vibe that’s a bit more grounded. It’s a city that feels both massive and surprisingly intimate once you find your corner.

Levittown CDP is the quintessential post-WWII American suburb. Born from William Levitt’s vision of affordable housing for veterans, it’s a place of uniform capes, quiet streets, and a deep-seated sense of place. This isn’t a tourist destination; it’s a place to live. The vibe is quiet, stable, and family-centric. You’re close enough to the culture and jobs of New York City (about an hour’s drive) but far enough to enjoy a quieter pace. Life here revolves around school districts, local parks, and weekend trips to the beach or the city. It’s less about flashy festivals and more about the rhythm of suburban life.

Who is it for?

  • San Antonio is for those who crave city energy, cultural diversity, and a lower cost of living without sacrificing amenities. It’s ideal for families, young professionals, and anyone who wants a taste of big-city life without the staggering price tags of coastal metros.
  • Levittown is for those who prioritize the classic suburban dream: a good school district, a safe community, and access to the East Coast’s economic engine. It’s for families and commuters who can afford the premium for location.

The Dollar Power: Cost of Living & Salary

This is where the rubber meets the road. Let’s talk about what your paycheck actually gets you.

Expense Category San Antonio, TX Levittown CDP, NY The Winner
Median Household Income $62,322 $101,619 Levittown
Median Home Price $264,900 $311,000 San Antonio
Rent (1BR) $1,197 $1,190 It's a Tie
Housing Index (National Avg = 100) 94.2 (More Affordable) 117.8 (Less Affordable) San Antonio
State Income Tax 0% (No state income tax) 4% - 10.9% (NY State + NYC tax if applicable) San Antonio

The Salary Wars: Purchasing Power Explained

On paper, Levittown handsomely beats San Antonio with a median income of $101,619 vs. $62,322. But let’s not get fooled by headline numbers. This is where purchasing power comes into play.

If you earn $100,000 in San Antonio, your money stretches much further. You’re not paying state income tax, and your housing costs are significantly lower. That $264,900 median home price is nearly $46,000 less than Levittown’s. Your monthly mortgage payment will be hundreds of dollars lower, freeing up cash for savings, travel, or dining out. The "sticker shock" of moving from a high-cost area to San Antonio is real—and positive.

In Levittown, that $101,619 median income is immediately hit by New York’s progressive income tax. A single filer earning that amount could pay over $5,000 in state and local taxes annually before touching federal taxes. When you factor in the higher housing index (117.8), your dollar has to work harder. While rent is oddly comparable, buying a home is more expensive, and property taxes on Long Island are notoriously high.

Insight: For pure, unadulterated bang for your buck, San Antonio is the clear victor. You can maintain a similar or better standard of living on a lower salary thanks to the lack of state income tax and more affordable housing.


The Housing Market: Buy vs. Rent

San Antonio:
The market is active but still accessible for the median buyer. At a median home price of $264,900, homeownership is a tangible goal for many. The market is competitive but not insane. You’ll find a mix of historic homes, new builds, and everything in between. Renting is also a strong option, with a plentiful supply of apartments and single-family rentals. It’s generally a buyer’s market for those with a budget, with more inventory than in coastal cities.

Levittown CDP:
The housing stock is almost exclusively single-family homes built in the 1940s and 50s. That $311,000 median price is for these classic capes and ranches. However, this is a seller’s market in a classic sense. Inventory is tight, and desirable homes sell quickly, often above asking price. You’re not just buying a house; you’re buying into a specific school district and neighborhood. The "starter home" concept is different here—renovations are common. Renting is an option, but the rental market is smaller and can be volatile.

The Verdict: If you want to buy a home without entering a bidding war, San Antonio offers more flexibility and lower entry costs. Levittown is for those who are committed to the Long Island lifestyle and are prepared for a competitive buying process.


The Dealbreakers: Quality of Life

Traffic & Commute

  • San Antonio: Traffic is a reality, especially on I-10, I-35, and Loop 1604 during rush hour. It’s a car-dependent city, but commutes are generally manageable compared to other major metros. Average commute time is around 25-30 minutes.
  • Levittown CDP: This is a commuter suburb. If you work in NYC, your commute is the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR), which is reliable but expensive (think $300+ monthly). Driving into the city involves battling the Long Island Expressway (LIE) or Cross Bronx. Commute times can easily hit 60-75+ minutes each way. This is a major lifestyle factor.

Weather

  • San Antonio: Forget a white Christmas. You’re looking at hot, humid summers (regularly 95°F+), mild winters (rarely below freezing), and a generous amount of sunshine year-round. It’s perfect for those who love outdoor activities but be prepared for the heat.
  • Levittown CDP: Enjoy all four seasons distinctly. Summers are warm and humid, falls are gorgeous, winters bring cold and snow (you’ll need a snow blower), and springs are lovely. The provided data point of 54.0°F is likely an annual average, but expect a range from 20°F in winter to 85°F in summer.

Crime & Safety

This is a critical, honest conversation.

  • San Antonio: The violent crime rate is 798.0 per 100,000. This is significantly higher than the national average. While the city is vast and many neighborhoods are perfectly safe, the overall statistic is a real concern. Researching specific neighborhoods is non-negotiable.
  • Levittown CDP: The violent crime rate is 413.7 per 100,000. While this is lower than San Antonio’s, it’s still above the national average. However, as a suburban community, the perception and day-to-day reality of safety are generally higher. It’s considered a safe place to raise a family, with standard suburban precautions.

The Safety Verdict: Levittown CDP is statistically safer. However, San Antonio’s crime is highly concentrated. With diligent neighborhood selection, you can find safe pockets, but the city-wide data is a valid dealbreaker for some.


The Final Verdict: Which City Wins for You?

There is no single "best" city—it’s about the best fit for your life stage and priorities.

Winner for Families: San Antonio

  • Why: While Levittown has great schools, San Antonio’s combination of highly affordable housing, no state income tax, and a wealth of family-oriented activities (zoos, museums, Six Flags, nature) is unbeatable. You can afford a larger home with a yard, and the financial breathing room is a game-changer for a growing family.

Winner for Singles/Young Professionals: San Antonio

  • Why: The cost of living is a massive advantage. You can build a career, pay off debt, and still have a social life. The city’s nightlife, food scene, and events provide plenty of opportunities to meet people. Levittown’s social scene is quieter and more family-focused, which can be isolating for a young professional.

Winner for Retirees: Levittown CDP

  • Why: This is a close call, but Levittown gets the edge for retirees who value proximity to world-class healthcare (NYC hospitals) and the changing seasons. The walkable, quiet streets and established community are ideal for a peaceful retirement. San Antonio’s heat can be a serious health consideration for older adults, and while healthcare is good, it doesn’t match the density of top-tier specialists found near NYC.

At a Glance: Pros & Cons

San Antonio, TX

Pros:

  • Radically Affordable Cost of Living: Your salary goes much, much further.
  • No State Income Tax: A direct boost to your take-home pay.
  • Rich Culture & Food Scene: A unique blend of Tex-Mex, history, and modern amenities.
  • Family-Friendly: Endless activities for kids and a strong sense of community.
  • Growing Economy: Strong in military, healthcare, and tech.

Cons:

  • High Violent Crime Rate: Requires careful neighborhood research.
  • Extreme Summer Heat: The humidity and heat can be oppressive for months.
  • Car Dependency: You’ll need a car for almost everything.
  • Limited Public Transit: Not as robust as larger coastal cities.

Levittown CDP, NY

Pros:

  • Excellent Location: Close to NYC culture, jobs, and airports.
  • Strong School Districts: A major draw for families.
  • Established Community: Stable, quiet, and safe (relatively).
  • Four Distinct Seasons: Enjoy the full range of weather.
  • Solid Housing Stock: Classic, well-built homes.

Cons:

  • High Cost of Living: Especially when factoring in taxes and property costs.
  • Expensive Commute: LIRR costs and time add up quickly.
  • Competitive Housing Market: Finding and buying a home can be stressful.
  • "Starter Home" is a Misnomer: Most homes need updating and maintenance.
  • Long Island Traffic: Congestion is a daily reality.

Final Take: If your priority is financial freedom, space, and a vibrant, growing city, choose San Antonio. If your priority is proximity to NYC, top-tier schools, and classic suburban stability (and you can afford the premium), choose Levittown CDP. The data points to San Antonio as the smarter financial move for most, but the heart often points to the home that feels right for your family’s future.