📊 Lifestyle Match
Visualizing the tradeoffs between Plymouth and San Antonio
Head-to-Head Analysis
Plymouth vs San Antonio
Detailed breakdown of cost of living, income potential, and lifestyle metrics.
📋 The Details
Line-by-line data comparison.
| Category / Metric | Plymouth | San Antonio |
|---|---|---|
| Financial Overview | ||
| Median Income | $130,793 | $62,322 |
| Unemployment Rate | 4% | 4.2% |
| Housing Market | ||
| Median Home Price | $495,000 | $264,900 |
| Price per SqFt | $203 | $153 |
| Monthly Rent (1BR) | $1,201 | $1,197 |
| Housing Cost Index | 110.3 | 94.2 |
| Cost of Living | ||
| Groceries Index | 104.8 | 91.9 |
| Gas Price (Gallon) | $2.67 | $2.35 |
| Safety & Lifestyle | ||
| Violent Crime (per 100k) | 280.3 | 798.0 |
| Bachelor's Degree+ | — | 30.5% |
| Air Quality (AQI) | 30 | 39 |
Expert Verdict
AI-generated analysis based on current data.
San Antonio vs. Plymouth: The Ultimate Head-to-Head Showdown
So, you’re standing at a crossroads. On one side, you have San Antonio—a sprawling, sun-baked metropolis brimming with history, culture, and a laid-back Texas charm. On the other, you have Plymouth—a quintessential New England coastal town, steeped in colonial history, with a picture-perfect harbor and a vibe that screams "classic Americana."
Choosing between them isn't just about picking a zip code; it's about choosing a lifestyle. Are you ready for the humidity and the hustle, or do you dream of crisp autumns and a tight-knit community? Let's break it down, head-to-head, with no punches pulled.
The Vibe Check: Culture & Lifestyle
San Antonio is the cultural heart of South Texas. It’s a city where the past and present collide. You can walk the River Walk, lined with restaurants and bars, and feel the energy of a major city. The culture is a rich Tex-Mex blend, with a booming food scene, world-class museums, and a vibrant arts district. Life here is outdoorsy and social. Think weekend trips to the Hill Country, Spurs games, and a nightlife that runs late. It’s a big city with a small-town soul, but the scale is undeniable.
Plymouth is a postcard come to life. Its identity is rooted in the 1620 Mayflower landing, and the town wears its history proudly. The vibe is coastal, quiet, and seasonal. Summers are bustling with tourists drawn to the beaches and waterfront dining, while winters are serene and quiet. The lifestyle revolves around the harbor, local history, and a strong sense of community. It’s less about a fast-paced career grind and more about quality of life, nature, and heritage.
- Who is it for?
- San Antonio is for the culture seeker, the foodie, the young professional looking for opportunity, and the family that wants a mix of urban amenities and affordable living.
- Plymouth is for the history buff, the coastal lover, the retiree seeking a peaceful setting, and the individual who values safety and community over a bustling city center.
The Dollar Power: Cost of Living & Salary
Let’s talk numbers, because your paycheck is the engine that drives your life here. The first thing to note is the massive disparity in median income. Plymouth residents earn more than double their San Antonio counterparts. However, that doesn't always translate directly to purchasing power, especially when housing prices are factored in.
Salary Wars:
If you earn $100,000 in San Antonio, you’re in the top tier. With a median income of $62,322, you’d have significant purchasing power. Your money would stretch further for dining out, entertainment, and general living expenses.
In Plymouth, a $100,000 salary is closer to the median ($130,793). It’s a good income, but you’re not "rich" by local standards. The higher cost of living, particularly housing, will eat into that paycheck faster. However, the state tax situation is a game-changer. Texas has 0% state income tax, while Massachusetts has a 5% flat income tax. That’s an immediate $5,000 savings on a $100,000 salary in San Antonio, which you can reinvest into your lifestyle or savings.
Cost of Living Breakdown:
| Category | San Antonio | Plymouth | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $264,900 | $495,000 | San Antonio |
| Rent (1BR) | $1,197 | $1,201 | Plymouth (Slight) |
| Housing Index | 94.2 (Below US Avg) | 110.3 (Above US Avg) | San Antonio |
| Utilities | $180 (Summer) | $220 (Winter) | Plymouth (More stable) |
| Groceries | 10% below nat'l avg | 5% above nat'l avg | San Antonio |
Note: Utilities and Groceries are estimated based on regional averages.
The Verdict on Purchasing Power:
San Antonio wins decisively. The combination of a lower median home price, lower overall cost of living, and zero state income tax means your $100,000 salary will feel like $120,000 in San Antonio. In Plymouth, it will feel like a solid middle-class income, but you’ll be more budget-conscious, especially if you plan to buy a home.
The Housing Market: Buy vs. Rent
San Antonio is a buyer-friendly market (or at least, it was). With a median home price of $264,900, entering the market is achievable for many. The Housing Index of 94.2 confirms it's below the national average. While the market has heated up, it's still possible to find a single-family home with a yard without breaking the bank. Renting is also reasonable, giving flexibility to newcomers.
Plymouth is a seller's market. The median home price is nearly double that of San Antonio at $495,000. The Housing Index of 110.3 signals that homes are priced higher than the national average. Competition is fierce, especially for historic properties or homes with water views. Renting is an option, but the rental stock is limited and can be seasonal, with summer rates often spiking for tourists.
The Verdict on Housing:
San Antonio is the clear winner for affordability and accessibility. If your goal is to own a home without draining your savings, San Antonio provides a much clearer path. Plymouth is a tougher nut to crack for first-time homebuyers and requires a significantly higher income to achieve homeownership comfortably.
The Dealbreakers: Quality of Life
Traffic & Commute
- San Antonio: Traffic can be heavy, especially on I-35 and Loop 1604. Commute times can average 25-35 minutes in the city. It’s a car-dependent city, but the sprawl means you can often find a home with a shorter commute if you plan carefully.
- Plymouth: Traffic is minimal, except during the peak summer tourist season when routes to Cape Cod get clogged. Commutes are generally short (10-20 minutes), and getting around town is easy.
Weather
- San Antonio: Brutal summers. Expect 100°F+ temperatures with high humidity for months. Winters are mild, rarely dipping below freezing. The trade-off is the humidity, which can be oppressive.
- Plymouth: Classic New England seasons. Winters are cold and snowy (16°F average in January), requiring snow removal and winter gear. Summers are idyllic—warm, but rarely oppressive. The beauty of fall foliage is a major perk.
Crime & Safety
This is a stark contrast and a major factor for many.
- San Antonio: The violent crime rate is 798.0 per 100,000. This is significantly higher than the national average. While many neighborhoods are safe, this is a real concern and varies dramatically by area.
- Plymouth: The violent crime rate is 280.3 per 100,000. This is below the national average and reflects a very safe community. It’s one of the safest towns in Massachusetts.
The Safety Verdict: Plymouth is the winner by a landslide. The data doesn't lie. If safety is your top priority, Plymouth is the vastly safer choice.
The Final Verdict: Who Wins Where?
After comparing the data, the culture, and the costs, here’s the final breakdown.
Winner for Families: San Antonio
- Why: The math is unbeatable. Affording a single-family home with a yard on a median income is possible in San Antonio; it's a stretch in Plymouth. The public school system is robust, with many highly-rated districts in the suburbs. The city offers endless family-friendly activities, from the zoo and theme parks to the free cultural events on the River Walk.
Winner for Singles & Young Professionals: San Antonio
- Why: Job opportunities are more diverse and plentiful in a metro of 1.5 million people. The cost of living allows for a higher quality of life on an entry-level salary. The social scene is vibrant, with a mix of nightlife, festivals, and a growing tech and healthcare sector. The lack of state income tax is a huge financial boost early in your career.
Winner for Retirees: Plymouth
- Why: Safety is paramount, and Plymouth provides peace of mind. The community is tight-knit, and the pace of life is slower, which many retirees prefer. While the cost of living is higher, many retirees arrive with savings or home equity from previous markets. The coastal setting, healthcare access, and historical charm create an ideal retirement environment. (Note: San Antonio also has a large retiree community due to cost, but Plymouth's safety and tranquility edge it out).
At a Glance: Pros & Cons
San Antonio, TX
Pros:
- Incredible Affordability: Low cost of living for a major city.
- Zero State Income Tax: Keeps more of your paycheck.
- Rich Culture & Food: Unbeatable Tex-Mex and vibrant history.
- Job Growth: Strong in healthcare, military, and tech.
- Family-Friendly: Tons of activities and affordable housing.
Cons:
- High Crime Rate: Statistically significant concern.
- Brutal Summer Heat: 100°F+ with humidity for months.
- Car Dependency: Public transit is limited.
- Urban Sprawl: Can feel disconnected without a car.
Plymouth, MA
Pros:
- Extremely Safe: Low crime rate, tight-knit community.
- Stunning Scenery: Coastal beauty, historic charm, and four distinct seasons.
- High Median Income: Strong local economy.
- Walkable & Quaint: Easy to navigate, with a strong sense of place.
- Quality of Life: Slower pace, clean environment, rich history.
Cons:
- High Cost of Living: Especially for housing.
- State Income Tax: 5% flat tax on earnings.
- Seasonal Tourism: Summer crowds and winter isolation.
- Harsh Winters: Snow and cold require preparation.
The Bottom Line: Your choice boils down to your priorities. If you want maximum bang for your buck, cultural vibrancy, and a sun-drenched lifestyle—and you can navigate the safety concerns—San Antonio is your city. If you prioritize safety, community, coastal beauty, and a classic Northeastern lifestyle—and you have the income to support it—Plymouth is your perfect match. Choose wisely.