📊 Lifestyle Match
Visualizing the tradeoffs between Longview and San Antonio
Head-to-Head Analysis
Longview vs San Antonio
Detailed breakdown of cost of living, income potential, and lifestyle metrics.
📋 The Details
Line-by-line data comparison.
| Category / Metric | Longview | San Antonio |
|---|---|---|
| Financial Overview | ||
| Median Income | $57,211 | $62,322 |
| Unemployment Rate | 4.2% | 4.2% |
| Housing Market | ||
| Median Home Price | $270,950 | $264,900 |
| Price per SqFt | $148 | $153 |
| Monthly Rent (1BR) | $930 | $1,197 |
| Housing Cost Index | 66.0 | 94.2 |
| Cost of Living | ||
| Groceries Index | 91.9 | 91.9 |
| Gas Price (Gallon) | $2.35 | $2.35 |
| Safety & Lifestyle | ||
| Violent Crime (per 100k) | 446.5 | 798.0 |
| Bachelor's Degree+ | 21.4% | 30.5% |
| Air Quality (AQI) | 35 | 39 |
Expert Verdict
AI-generated analysis based on current data.
San Antonio vs. Longview: Which Texas Town Should You Call Home?
You're looking at two very different slices of Texas life. On one hand, San Antonio—a sprawling, historic metropolis where the Alamo meets modern tech, and the River Walk buzzes with tourists and locals alike. On the other, Longview—a tight-knit East Texas hub with pine trees, a slower pace, and that classic small-town charm.
So, which one wins? It depends entirely on what you're looking for. Let's break it down, no holds barred.
The Vibe Check: Big City Buzz vs. Small-Town Soul
San Antonio is a city that never sits still. It’s the 7th-largest city in the U.S. by population (1.49 million), a cultural melting pot where history is alive on every corner. The vibe is energetic, diverse, and family-friendly. You've got the Spurs, Fiesta San Antonio, world-class museums, and a food scene that blends Tex-Mex, BBQ, and high-end dining. It feels like a major city that hasn't lost its soul. It's for the person who craves options—endless restaurants, concerts, and neighborhoods to explore—and doesn't mind a little hustle.
Longview is the definition of a "pace of life" choice. With a population of just 84,418, it feels like a real community. The pace is noticeably slower, the traffic is minimal, and the connection to nature (think Lake Gregor and the surrounding piney woods) is a huge draw. Life revolves around local events, Friday night football, and knowing your neighbors. It’s for the person who finds joy in simplicity, values community over constant stimulation, and wants to escape the big-city grind. If San Antonio is a bustling downtown, Longview is a quiet porch swing.
The Verdict: If you want the energy and amenities of a major metro, San Antonio is your pick. If you crave a slower, more connected lifestyle, Longview wins the vibe check.
The Dollar Power: Where Your Salary Feels Like More
Texas has no state income tax, which is a massive win for both cities. But where you actually feel your paycheck stretch further is a different story. Let's talk purchasing power.
Cost of Living Comparison
| Category | San Antonio | Longview | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $264,900 | $270,950 | Longview (Slightly) |
| Median Income | $62,322 | $57,211 | San Antonio |
| Rent (1BR) | $1,197 | $930 | Longview |
| Housing Index | 94.2 | 66.0 | Longview |
Salary Wars & Purchasing Power:
Let’s say you earn the median income in each city. In San Antonio, you're making $62,322, and the median home is $264,900. That’s a home-to-income ratio of about 4.25x. In Longview, you're making $57,211 for a $270,950 home—a ratio of 4.73x.
Here’s the kicker: While Longview has a lower median income, its Housing Index (66.0) is significantly lower than San Antonio's (94.2). This means housing costs in Longview are 34% cheaper relative to the national average. The "sticker shock" of home prices is similar, but your other expenses—groceries, utilities, transportation—will be noticeably lighter in Longview. Your dollar simply goes further in daily life.
Sticker Shock Alert: If you're moving from a high-cost coastal state, both will feel like a bargain. But Longview offers the deepest discount on the overall cost of living.
The Verdict: For overall affordability and bang for your buck, Longview takes the crown. However, if you're in a high-paying field (tech, healthcare, finance), San Antonio's higher median income and larger job market might offer better long-term earning potential.
The Housing Market: To Buy or To Rent?
San Antonio
The market is competitive but not as cutthroat as Austin or Dallas. The median home price of $264,900 is still accessible for many. It's a solid buyer's market with growing inventory, meaning you have more room to negotiate. Renting is a popular option, with a healthy supply of apartments and duplexes, though prices have risen steadily. The key here is neighborhood choice—prices can vary wildly from the historic King William district to the suburbs of Stone Oak.
Longview
Longview's housing market is surprisingly tight. The median home price ($270,950) is slightly higher than San Antonio's, which is a head-scratcher for a smaller city. This is driven by low inventory and high demand for single-family homes. It’s firmly a seller's market. Renting is more affordable ($930 vs. $1,197), but the rental stock is smaller. You'll find more older homes and newer suburban developments.
The Deal: If you're looking to buy and want more options and negotiating power, San Antonio is the better bet. If you're renting and want the lowest possible cost, Longview wins. But if you're a buyer in Longview, be prepared for a competitive search.
The Dealbreakers: Traffic, Weather, and Safety
Traffic & Commute
- San Antonio: Traffic is real. Commutes can easily hit 30-45 minutes in peak hours, especially on I-10, I-35, and Loop 1604. It's manageable compared to Houston or LA, but it's a daily reality.
- Longview: Traffic is almost non-existent. A 10-15 minute commute is the norm, even during rush "hour." This is a massive quality-of-life upgrade for many.
Winner: Longview (by a landslide).
Weather
- San Antonio: Brutal, humid summers regularly hitting 95-100°F with high humidity. Winters are mild (rarely freezing), but the humidity makes it feel hotter and stickier year-round. It's a classic Texas heat experience.
- Longview: Much more balanced. Summers are hot (highs in the 90s) but less humid than San Antonio. Winters are cooler, with occasional freezes and a light dusting of snow every few years. The 63°F average reflects a more four-season feel.
Winner: Longview for those who dislike oppressive humidity.
Crime & Safety
This is a critical data point. According to the data:
- San Antonio Violent Crime Rate: 798.0 per 100,000 people.
- Longview Violent Crime Rate: 446.5 per 100,000 people.
The reality check: Both rates are above the national average (~380/100k). San Antonio's rate is notably higher, which is common for large, dense metro areas. However, crime is hyper-local. San Antonio has incredibly safe neighborhoods (like Alamo Heights, Terrell Hills) and areas to avoid, just like any major city. Longview's rate is lower but not negligible. It’s crucial to research specific neighborhoods in both cities.
The Verdict: Statistically, Longview is safer. But in San Antonio, your safety is heavily influenced by your choice of neighborhood.
The Final Call: Pros, Cons, and Who Should Choose Where
San Antonio
Pros:
- Endless Amenities: World-class dining, culture, sports, and entertainment.
- Job Market: Diverse and growing, especially in healthcare, military, and tech.
- Cultural Depth: A rich, blend of history and modernity.
- International Airport (SAT): Direct flights across the U.S. and to Mexico.
Cons:
- Traffic & Sprawl: Commutes can be long.
- High Humidity & Heat: Summers are grueling.
- Higher Cost of Living: Especially in desirable neighborhoods.
- Urban Crime Rates: Requires careful neighborhood research.
Longview
Pros:
- Affordability: Lower overall costs and cheaper rent.
- Short Commutes: Minimal traffic stress.
- Slower Pace of Life: Less hustle, more community.
- Milder Weather: Less humidity and more seasonal variety.
- Natural Beauty: Easy access to lakes and pine forests.
Cons:
- Limited Entertainment: Fewer major concerts, pro sports, or fine dining options.
- Smaller Job Market: Less diversity in high-paying industries.
- Limited International Travel: Requires a drive to Dallas or Houston for most non-stop flights.
- Feels "Small": Can feel isolating if you're used to big-city anonymity.
THE VERDICT: Who Wins Your Heart?
Winner for Families: San Antonio. The superior school districts (in specific suburbs like Alamo Heights or Northside ISD), endless kid-friendly activities (SeaWorld, Six Flags, the DoSeum), and larger community networks make it a powerhouse for raising a family, provided you can afford the right neighborhood.
Winner for Singles/Young Professionals: San Antonio. The social scene, networking opportunities, and career growth potential in a major metro area are unmatched. Longview can feel limiting for someone looking to climb the corporate ladder or have a vibrant social life.
Winner for Retirees: Longview. This is a tough call, but Longview gets the edge. The lower cost of living, safer environment, quieter pace, and access to nature are tailor-made for retirement. San Antonio offers more cultural activities, but the heat and traffic can be a burden for older residents.
Bottom Line: Choose San Antonio if you want big-city opportunities, culture, and energy. Choose Longview if you want affordability, peace, and a true small-town community. Your lifestyle, not just your budget, will make the final decision.