📊 Lifestyle Match
Visualizing the tradeoffs between Moore and San Antonio
Head-to-Head Analysis
Moore vs San Antonio
Detailed breakdown of cost of living, income potential, and lifestyle metrics.
📋 The Details
Line-by-line data comparison.
| Category / Metric | Moore | San Antonio |
|---|---|---|
| Financial Overview | ||
| Median Income | $76,941 | $62,322 |
| Unemployment Rate | 3.5% | 4.2% |
| Housing Market | ||
| Median Home Price | $221,750 | $264,900 |
| Price per SqFt | $152 | $153 |
| Monthly Rent (1BR) | $773 | $1,197 |
| Housing Cost Index | 78.1 | 94.2 |
| Cost of Living | ||
| Groceries Index | 92.2 | 91.9 |
| Gas Price (Gallon) | $3.40 | $2.35 |
| Safety & Lifestyle | ||
| Violent Crime (per 100k) | 458.6 | 798.0 |
| Bachelor's Degree+ | 27.7% | 30.5% |
| Air Quality (AQI) | 34 | 39 |
Expert Verdict
AI-generated analysis based on current data.
San Antonio vs. Moore: The Ultimate Head-to-Head Showdown
So, you're standing at a crossroads. On one side, you have the sprawling, historic, and vibrant metropolis of San Antonio, Texas. On the other, the quieter, family-oriented, and surprisingly affordable town of Moore, Oklahoma. This isn't just a choice between two zip codes; it's a choice between two entirely different lifestyles, climates, and financial futures.
Let's cut through the noise. As your Relocation Expert and Data Journalist, I'm here to give you the unvarnished truth. We're going to break this down like we're figuring out which car to buy—comparing specs, performance, and long-term value. Grab your coffee, and let's dive in.
1. The Vibe Check: Big City Energy vs. Community Comfort
First, let's talk about the feel of each place.
San Antonio is a powerhouse. With a population of 1.49 million, it's the second-largest city in Texas and the seventh-largest in the U.S. This is a city of contrasts: the iconic River Walk snaking through downtown, the towering spires of the Alamo, and the mind-bogglingly massive military presence (JBSA). The culture is a rich, spicy blend of Tex-Mex, military grit, and modern tech. Life here is dynamic. You have professional sports (Spurs), a booming culinary scene, and enough nightlife, museums, and festivals to fill a decade. It's a city that feels like it's constantly in motion.
Moore, on the other hand, is the definition of a "bedroom community." With a population of 63,000, it's a fraction of the size. Nestled just south of Oklahoma City, Moore offers a quieter, more suburban feel. Think tree-lined streets, strong community ties, and a pace where you might actually recognize your barista. The vibe is family-first, with a focus on local schools, parks, and community events. It's less about a buzzing downtown scene and more about a comfortable home life.
Who is it for?
- San Antonio is for the urbanite, the foodie, the military family, the history buff, and anyone who craves the energy and amenities of a major city without the astronomical price tag of coastal metros.
- Moore is for the family seeking a safe, affordable, and tight-knit community. It's for the commuter who works in OKC but wants a quieter home base, or the retiree looking for a low-stress, low-cost environment.
2. The Dollar Power: Where Does Your Salary Feel Bigger?
This is where the rubber meets the road. A $100,000 salary in San Antonio will feel very different from the same paycheck in Moore. Let's talk purchasing power.
First, the elephant in the room: Texas has 0% state income tax. Oklahoma has a progressive income tax ranging from 0.5% to 4.75%. For a single filer earning $100,000 in Oklahoma, that's a state tax bill of roughly $3,800 annually. That's real money out of your pocket before you even pay for groceries.
Now, let's look at the monthly nuts and bolts.
Cost of Living Comparison
| Category | San Antonio, TX | Moore, OK | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $264,900 | $221,750 | Moore |
| Rent (1BR) | $1,197 | $773 | Moore |
| Utilities | ~$180 (High A/C) | ~$160 (Moderate) | Moore |
| Groceries | ~5% above nat'l avg | ~2% below nat'l avg | Moore |
| Overall Housing Index | 94.2 | 78.1 | Moore |
Analysis:
The sticker shock is real. Moore is significantly cheaper across the board. The Housing Index score (where 100 is the national average) shows Moore at 78.1 (21.9% cheaper than average) compared to San Antonio's 94.2 (5.8% cheaper than average).
Let's run the numbers for our $100k earner:
- In San Antonio: After federal taxes and that Texas savings, your take-home is strong. But your rent/mortgage will be higher. You'll have more to spend on entertainment and dining out, but your housing costs will eat a bigger chunk.
- In Moore: Your take-home is slightly less due to state taxes, but your fixed costs are dramatically lower. That $424/month difference in rent alone could cover a car payment. The purchasing power in Moore is undeniably higher for daily living.
Verdict on Purchasing Power: For sheer dollar-for-dollar value on essentials, Moore wins decisively. You can live more comfortably on less here.
3. The Housing Market: Buy vs. Rent & The Competition
San Antonio's Market: It's hot, but not scorching. The median home price of $264,900 is still accessible compared to Austin or Dallas, but it's climbing. This is a seller's market in many neighborhoods, with homes receiving multiple offers. Renting is a competitive alternative, with a healthy supply of apartments, but prices are rising. Availability is better for buyers than in hyper-expensive cities, but you need to be prepared to move quickly.
Moore's Market: This is a buyer-friendly market. With a median home price of $221,750 and a lower housing index, you get a lot more house for your money. The market is less frenetic, meaning less bidding wars and more room to negotiate. Renting is incredibly affordable and less competitive. For the price of a modest 2-bedroom apartment in San Antonio, you could rent a 3-bedroom house in Moore.
The Bottom Line: If you're looking to buy, Moore offers better value and less competition. If you're looking to rent for flexibility, Moore is again the more affordable and less stressful option.
4. The Dealbreakers: Quality of Life Under the Microscope
This is where personal preference trumps data.
Traffic & Commute:
- San Antonio: Traffic is a part of life. The city is car-centric, and rush hour on I-10, I-35, and Loop 1604 can be brutal. Commute times average 25-35 minutes, but can easily double. Public transit (VIA) exists but is not as comprehensive as in some metros.
- Moore: Traffic is minimal. Commuting into Oklahoma City is straightforward, and getting around town is a breeze. The average commute might be 20-25 minutes, but it's a less stressful drive. Winner: Moore.
Weather:
- San Antonio: Prepare for heat. Summers are long, hot, and humid, with 90°F+ days common from May to September. Winters are mild (rarely freezing), but the humidity can make it feel colder. It's a sun-drenched, sometimes oppressive climate.
- Moore: You get four distinct seasons. Summers are hot but less humid than Texas (average high in the 90s). Springs can be volatile (tornado risk is real). Winters are cold, with occasional snow and ice (average low in the 20s-30s). The average annual temp of 52°F reflects this balance. Winner: It's a toss-up. Love sunshine and hate snow? San Antonio. Prefer seasons and can handle a cold winter? Moore.
Crime & Safety:
This is a critical, honest discussion. Crime stats can be misleading, but the data tells a clear story.
| Crime Type | San Antonio (per 100k) | Moore (per 100k) | National Avg (per 100k) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Violent Crime | 798.0 | 458.6 | ~366.7 |
| Property Crime | ~3,300 | ~1,800 | ~1,958 |
Analysis: San Antonio's violent crime rate is more than double the national average. While certain neighborhoods are very safe, the city-wide statistic is a major concern for families and individuals prioritizing safety. Moore's rate is still above the national average but is significantly lower than San Antonio's. Property crime follows the same pattern.
Verdict on Safety: Moore is the unequivocal winner on safety. The data is stark. If low crime is a top priority, Moore stands out.
5. The Final Verdict: Who Should Pack Their Bags?
After crunching the numbers and weighing the lifestyles, here's the final call.
Winner for Families: Moore
For the average family, Moore is the clear choice. The combination of lower crime rates, superior housing affordability, and a community-focused environment is hard to beat. Your dollar stretches further, your kids can play outside with less worry, and you're not battling city traffic for school drop-offs. The schools are generally well-regarded, and the community is built around family life.
Winner for Singles & Young Professionals: San Antonio
If you're in your 20s or 30s, career-focused, and crave social energy, San Antonio has the edge. The job market is larger and more diverse (tech, healthcare, military, tourism). The nightlife, dining, and cultural scenes offer endless opportunities to network, socialize, and explore. While more expensive, the trade-off is access to a world-class city's amenities without the brutal price tag of Austin or Dallas.
Winner for Retirees: Moore
For retirees on a fixed income, Moore is a sanctuary. The lower cost of living means retirement savings go further. The safer environment provides peace of mind. The slower pace and friendly community are ideal for a relaxed retirement. While San Antonio has a vibrant senior community and excellent healthcare (thanks to the medical center), the overall expense and city hustle may not be the ideal retirement dream for everyone.
The Final Call: Pros & Cons
San Antonio, TX
Pros:
- Vibrant Culture & Food: World-class Tex-Mex, history, and festivals.
- 0% State Income Tax: More money in your pocket.
- Major City Amenities: Pro sports, top-tier healthcare, diverse job market.
- Military Hub: Great for families with ties to the armed forces.
Cons:
- High Crime Rate: Statistically a significant concern.
- Traffic & Hustle: Can be stressful and time-consuming.
- Summer Heat & Humidity: Oppressive for months.
- Higher Cost of Living: Especially housing and utilities.
Moore, OK
Pros:
- Affordability Champion: Low housing costs, rent, and overall living expenses.
- Safer Community: Violent crime rate is much lower than San Antonio's.
- Family-Friendly Vibe: Quiet, community-oriented, great for raising kids.
- Proximity to OKC: Access to city amenities without the city price or traffic.
Cons:
- Limited Nightlife & Culture: Quiet, suburban feel isn't for everyone.
- State Income Tax: A financial hit compared to Texas.
- Tornado Risk: Spring weather can be severe.
- Fewer Major Career Hubs: Job market is more limited unless you commute to OKC.
The Bottom Line: Choose San Antonio for the energy, culture, and zero state tax if you can manage the higher costs and crime. Choose Moore for safety, affordability, and a peaceful family life if you value community over constant action. Your personal priorities—safety, budget, and lifestyle—are the ultimate judge.