Lewisville vs San Antonio

Category / Metric	Lewisville	San Antonio
Financial Overview
Median Income	$88,784	$62,322
Unemployment Rate	4.2%	4.2%
Housing Market
Median Home Price	$386,500	$264,900
Price per SqFt	$208	$153
Monthly Rent (1BR)	$1,291	$1,197
Housing Cost Index	117.8	94.2
Cost of Living
Groceries Index	105.0	91.9
Gas Price (Gallon)	$2.35	$2.35
Safety & Lifestyle
Violent Crime (per 100k)	234.0	798.0
Bachelor's Degree+	38.4%	30.5%
Air Quality (AQI)	34	39

San Antonio vs. Lewisville: The Head-to-Head Texas Showdown

So, you're looking at Texas. Smart move. No state income tax, booming economies, and enough barbecue to fill a stadium. But you've narrowed it down to two very different beasts: the massive, historic metropolis of San Antonio and the polished, northern suburb of Lewisville.

Let’s cut the fluff. This isn't just about jobs or rent; it's about where you'll spend your weekends, how hard your paycheck hits, and whether you'll feel safe walking to the corner store.

I’ve dug into the data, crunched the numbers, and talked to folks on the ground. Here’s the raw, no-nonsense breakdown to help you pick your new home.

The Vibe Check: Big City Soul vs. Suburban Polish

San Antonio is a city with a heartbeat you can feel from the River Walk to the Pearl District. It’s the seventh-largest city in the U.S., a sprawling cultural hub where historic Spanish missions sit next to modern military bases (Joint Base San Antonio is a massive economic engine). The vibe is laid-back, family-oriented, and deeply rooted in Tex-Mex culture. It’s a city of neighborhoods, each with its own flavor. Think of it as a big, friendly giant with a rich history and a growing, diverse economy.

Lewisville, on the other hand, is a classic North Texas suburb. Located about 30 miles north of Dallas in Denton County, it’s a strategic spot for professionals who want Dallas salaries but without the downtown Dallas price tag or chaos. The vibe is cleaner, more manicured, and decidedly quieter. It’s part of the "DFW Metroplex" sprawl, meaning you have endless shopping (hello, The Vista Ridge Mall) and chain restaurants, but less of that unique, gritty city soul. It’s for people who prioritize convenience, safety, and modern amenities over historic character.

Who is it for?

• San Antonio: Families, history buffs, foodies, military personnel, and anyone who wants a major city feel without the northeast price tag.
• Lewisville: Young professionals commuting to Dallas/Fort Worth, families seeking top-rated school districts, and those who prefer a quieter, planned-community lifestyle.

The Dollar Power: Where Does Your Paycheck Stretch Further?

This is where the rubber meets the road. You might earn more in Lewisville, but does it go as far? Let's talk purchasing power.

First, the big picture: Texas has 0% state income tax. That’s a massive win for both cities compared to states like California or New York. Your paycheck is automatically bigger here. But local costs vary.

Cost of Living Snapshot

Category	San Antonio	Lewisville	The Takeaway
Median Home Price	$264,900	$386,500	Winner: San Antonio. The sticker shock is real in Lewisville.
Rent (1BR)	$1,197	$1,291	Winner: San Antonio. A slight edge, but not a dealbreaker.
Housing Index	94.2	117.8	Winner: San Antonio. San Antonio is 25% more affordable for housing.
Median Income	$62,322	$88,784	Winner: Lewisville. The income advantage is significant.

Salary Wars: The $100k Test
Let’s imagine you earn $100,000.

• In Lewisville, your paycheck is higher, but your biggest expense—housing—consumes a larger chunk. A median home in Lewisville costs $386,500, while in San Antonio, it's $264,900. That’s over $120,000 less! Even with a slightly higher rent, your overall cost of living is lower in San Antonio.
• Purchasing Power Verdict: Your $100k feels more like $110k+ in San Antonio because housing eats up less of your budget. In Lewisville, you earn more but are priced into a higher-cost housing market. For pure financial flexibility, San Antonio wins.

The Housing Market: Buy or Rent?

San Antonio: It’s a buyer’s market right now. With a Housing Index of 94.2 (below the national average of 100), homes are relatively affordable. Inventory is decent, giving you some leverage. It’s a great time for first-time homebuyers or anyone looking to get more house for their money. The rental market is stable, with prices rising but not exploding.

Lewisville: This is a seller’s market. The Housing Index of 117.8 screams demand. You’re competing with Dallas commuters and families flocking to the area for its schools and safety. Expect bidding wars, especially on well-priced homes. Rent is higher, but the rental stock is newer and often in polished complexes with pools and gyms. If you’re looking to buy, you’ll need patience and a strong offer. If you’re renting, you’ll pay a premium for that newer construction.

The Dealbreakers: Quality of Life

Traffic & Commute

• San Antonio: Traffic is manageable for a city of its size. The biggest choke points are around I-35 and I-10 during rush hour. If you work downtown, you can often find a place with a reasonable commute. The city is also quite "grid-like," making navigation straightforward.
• Lewisville: You’re in the DFW Metroplex, which is notorious for traffic. While Lewisville itself is a suburb, your quality of life depends heavily on your commute. If you work in Dallas, you’re looking at a 30-60 minute commute on I-35E, often in stop-and-go traffic. It’s the price you pay for suburban tranquility and Dallas salaries.

Weather

• San Antonio: Brutal, humid summers. Think 95°F+ with oppressive humidity for months. Winters are mild, rarely dipping below freezing. It’s a sun-lover’s paradise but can be punishing if you hate the heat.
• Lewisville: More seasonal. Summers are hot but slightly less humid than San Antonio. Winters are cooler, with occasional ice or light snow. The average low of 57°F feels pleasant compared to San Antonio’s summer. If you prefer distinct seasons, Lewisville wins.

Crime & Safety

This is a stark difference.

• San Antonio: The violent crime rate is 798.0 per 100,000. This is significantly higher than the national average. While many neighborhoods are perfectly safe, the city-wide statistic is a serious consideration for families and individuals. You must research specific neighborhoods.
• Lewisville: The violent crime rate is 234.0 per 100,000. This is well below the national average and a fraction of San Antonio’s rate. It’s a much safer bet statistically, which is a huge draw for families and those prioritizing peace of mind.

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🏆 THE VERDICT: Who Wins Each Category?

Winner for Families: Lewisville

While San Antonio offers more affordable housing and a vibrant culture, Lewisville takes the crown for families. The combination of top-tier school districts (Lewisville ISD is excellent), significantly lower crime rates (234.0 vs. 798.0), and a quieter, community-focused lifestyle is a powerful draw. The higher income potential and safer environment often outweigh the higher housing costs for families focused on education and security.

Winner for Singles/Young Pros: San Antonio

For young professionals, San Antonio offers more bang for your buck. The lower cost of living means your salary stretches further, allowing for a better lifestyle (more dining out, entertainment, travel). The city has a thriving nightlife, a growing tech and healthcare scene, and a unique culture you can’t find in a suburb. You get a major city experience without the crushing costs of Austin or Dallas. Lewisville can feel sterile and isolating for a single person unless your social life revolves exclusively around the Dallas scene.

Winner for Retirees: San Antonio

Retirees on a fixed income will find San Antonio’s lower costs and warmer winters unbeatable. The median home price is a staggering $121,600 less than in Lewisville. The city is packed with cultural activities, world-class medical facilities (thanks to the military presence), and a relaxed, retiree-friendly pace. Lewisville’s proximity to Dallas is less relevant for retirees, and its higher costs and cooler winters are downsides.

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Final Pros & Cons Breakdown

San Antonio: The Big, Friendly Giant

Pros:

• ✅ Affordable Housing: Median home price of $264,900 is a steal for a major U.S. city.
• ✅ Rich Culture & Food: Unmatched Tex-Mex, vibrant festivals, and deep history.
• ✅ Purchasing Power: Your salary goes further due to lower living costs.
• ✅ Major City Amenities: Professional sports, world-class healthcare, a growing airport.
• ✅ 0% State Income Tax: More money in your pocket.

Cons:

• ❌ High Crime Rate: Violent crime is a serious concern (798.0/100k). Neighborhood research is non-negotiable.
• ❌ Brutal Summers: The heat and humidity from June to September can be overwhelming.
• ❌ Traffic: While manageable, it’s still a large city with congestion.
• ❌ Lower Median Income: $62,322 is below the national average, though offset by lower costs.

Lewisville: The Polished Suburban Hub

Pros:

• ✅ Safety: Violent crime is remarkably low (234.0/100k).
• ✅ Higher Income Potential: Median income of $88,784 offers strong earning potential.
• ✅ Top Schools: Lewisville ISD is a major draw for families.
• ✅ Modern Conveniences: Newer housing stock, clean parks, and easy access to shopping.
• ✅ Proximity to Dallas: Access to a massive job market and entertainment.

Cons:

• ❌ High Housing Costs: Median home price of $386,500 and a high Housing Index (117.8).
• ❌ Suburban Sprawl: Can feel generic and lacking in unique character.
• ❌ Commute is a Reality: Traffic to Dallas can be grueling.
• ❌ Less "City" Vibe: Fewer independent restaurants, cultural institutions, or nightlife options.

The Bottom Line

Choosing between these two is a choice between two different lives.

Pick San Antonio if: You prioritize affordability, culture, and a true city feel. You want your paycheck to stretch further, you love warm weather, and you’re willing to do your homework on neighborhoods to ensure safety. It’s a city of character and soul.

Pick Lewisville if: Your top priorities are safety, school districts, and higher earning potential. You’re a young professional commuting to Dallas, or a family willing to pay a premium for a modern, secure, and community-oriented lifestyle. It’s a city of convenience and polish.

Your move. Which trade-off feels right for you?