The 15 Best Neighborhoods & Towns in San Antonio for Veterans
San Antonio’s nickname, “Military City USA,” reflects its deep ties to the Military community, with bases like Joint Base San Antonio (JBSA) and robust Veteran support networks.
Whether you’re a Veteran seeking urban energy, upscale living, or a quiet Hill Country retreat, this guide organizes the best neighborhoods in San Antonio and its surrounding towns by lifestyle.
We’ve included median home prices, commute times to the Audie L. Murphy VA Hospital, school districts, and Veteran-friendly amenities to help you find your ideal home.
For your home purchase in the San Antonio area
Key Takeaways
- San Antonio offers Veteran-friendly neighborhoods near JBSA and the Audie L. Murphy VA Hospital, with strong Military support services.
- Median home prices range from ~$250K in Government Hill to ~$650K in Alamo Heights, with many homes eligible for VA loans.
- Veteran families benefit from top school districts like Alamo Heights ISD and Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City ISD.
- Commute times to major VA healthcare facilities average 10–25 minutes from most popular neighborhoods.
- Popular Veteran hubs include Alamo Ranch, Boerne, Stone Oak, Schertz, and Southtown for their amenities and community feel.
- VA loan-eligible homes are common across the region, with no PMI and $0 down for qualified Veterans.
- Military discounts are available at River Walk, parks, retailers, and events like Boerne’s Berges Fest.
- San Antonio’s cost of living is below the national average, making it a financially smart choice for Veterans and retirees.
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For a Vibrant, Urban Lifestyle
Craving walkable streets, cultural hubs, and quick access to VA services? These neighborhoods put Veterans in the heart of San Antonio’s action.
Downtown San Antonio
Downtown is perfect for Veterans seeking an urban lifestyle. Home to the River Walk and the Alamo, it offers condos and lofts that are VA loan-eligible. The nearby South Texas Veterans Health Care System and Veteran Resource Center provide healthcare and job support. Military discounts at River Walk restaurants add value.
- Vibe: Bustling, cultural, Military-friendly.
- Median Home Price: ~$399,000 (Redfin, May 2026).
- Commute to Audie L. Murphy VA Hospital: 10–15 minutes.
- Key School District: San Antonio ISD (e.g., James Bonham Academy).
- Notable Amenity: The River Walk, with Military discounts.
- Best For: Single Veterans, urban-dwelling Military retirees.
Government Hill
Government Hill, steps from Fort Sam Houston, is a historic gem for Veterans. Affordable homes and proximity to JBSA-Fort Sam Houston’s commissary and services make it ideal. The neighborhood’s gentrifying vibe offers investment potential for VA loan buyers.
- Vibe: Historic, Military-centric, up-and-coming.
- Median Home Price: ~$250,000 (Redfin, February 2026).
- Commute to Audie L. Murphy VA Hospital: 10–15 minutes.
- Key School District: San Antonio ISD.
- Notable Amenity: Fort Sam Houston, hosting Veteran events.
- Best For: Veterans prioritizing base proximity, first-time buyers.
Southtown
Southtown, encompassing Lavaca and Lone Star, is an artsy enclave with Veteran-friendly community events like First Friday. Affordable homes (some as low as ~$140,600 in Collins Garden) and proximity to downtown VA clinics suit Veterans on a budget.
- Vibe: Hip, creative, eclectic.
- Median Home Price: ~$300,000 (Hard Hat Real Estate, April 2026).
- Commute to Audie L. Murphy VA Hospital: 10–15 minutes.
- Key School District: San Antonio ISD.
- Notable Amenity: Blue Star Arts Complex, with Veteran art programs.
- Best For: Creative Veterans, young Military families.
Also Consider:
- Dignowity Hill: Affordable (~$250,000, Redfin, February 2026) with Victorian homes and a 10-minute commute to VA facilities. Great for Veteran investors.
- King William: Historic with pricier homes (~$506,900, Zillow, June 2026), ideal for Veterans seeking charm near the River Walk.
- Tobin Hill: Walkable with condos (~$350,000, Zillow, June 2026) and Veteran-friendly coworking spaces.
For Established, Upscale Living
Want prestigious neighborhoods with top schools and VA loan options? These areas offer refined living for Veterans and Military professionals.
Alamo Heights
Alamo Heights blends historic charm with modern amenities, perfect for Veteran families. The Alamo Heights Independent School District is top-rated, and a nearby VA outpatient clinic ensures healthcare access. Homes are VA loan-eligible with strong resale value.
- Vibe: Upscale, walkable, Military-friendly.
- Median Home Price: ~$650,000 (Zillow, June 2026).
- Commute to Audie L. Murphy VA Hospital: 10–15 minutes.
- Key School District: Alamo Heights ISD (e.g., Cambridge Elementary).
- Notable Amenity: McNay Art Museum, offering Veteran discounts.
- Best For: Veteran families, high-ranking Military officers.
Terrell Hills
Adjacent to Alamo Heights, Terrell Hills is near Fort Sam Houston, ideal for Veterans. With a livability score of 88 and VA loan-friendly homes, it attracts Military families seeking prestige and convenience.
- Vibe: Prestigious, suburban, Veteran-focused.
- Median Home Price: ~$575,000 (Zillow, June 2026).
- Commute to Audie L. Murphy VA Hospital: 10–15 minutes.
- Key School District: Alamo Heights ISD.
- Notable Amenity: The Quarry, with Military-friendly shops.
- Best For: Veterans seeking status, Military professionals.
Olmos Park
Olmos Park offers elegant homes and a serene vibe, perfect for retired Veterans. Its proximity to the San Antonio Military Medical Center and VA loan eligibility makes it a strong choice for healthcare access.
- Vibe: Elegant, serene, upscale.
- Median Home Price: ~$600,000 (SoFi, February 2026).
- Commute to Audie L. Murphy VA Hospital: 5–10 minutes.
- Key School District: Alamo Heights ISD.
- Notable Amenity: Olmos Basin Park, hosting Veteran events.
- Best For: Retired Veterans, high-income Military families.
Also Consider:
- Oak Park-Northwood: Upscale yet affordable (~$400,000, Zillow, June 2026), with Alamo Heights ISD schools and VA-friendly homes.
- Monte Vista: Historic with architectural diversity (~$550,000, Zillow, June 2026), near VA facilities and Trinity University.
For Modern, Family-Friendly Suburbs
Need safe streets, great schools, and Military-friendly communities? These suburbs cater to Veteran families with modern amenities and VA loan options.
Stone Oak
Stone Oak, a master-planned community in North San Antonio, offers gated neighborhoods and top schools in the North East Independent School District. Its low crime rate and proximity to JBSA-Randolph make it Veteran-friendly.
- Vibe: Safe, modern, family-oriented.
- Median Home Price: ~$450,000 (Zillow, June 2026).
- Commute to Audie L. Murphy VA Hospital: 15–20 minutes.
- Key School District: North East ISD (e.g., Reagan High School).
- Notable Amenity: The Village at Stone Oak, with Military discounts.
- Best For: Veteran families, growing Military households.
Alamo Ranch
Alamo Ranch, near Lackland AFB, is a fast-growing suburb with affordable, VA loan-eligible homes. Community parks and Veteran support groups make it welcoming for Military families.
- Vibe: Modern, community-oriented, affordable.
- Median Home Price: ~$350,000 (The Luxury Playbook, April 2026).
- Commute to Audie L. Murphy VA Hospital: 20–25 minutes.
- Key School District: Northside ISD.
- Notable Amenity: Government Canyon State Natural Area, with Veteran hiking groups.
- Best For: First-time Veteran buyers, Military families.
Also Consider:
- Timberwood Park: North of Stone Oak, with large lots (~$425,000, Zillow, June 2026) and Comal ISD schools.
- Sonterra: Gated with golf amenities (~$475,000, Zillow, June 2026), near JBSA-Randolph.
- Oakland Estates: Diverse with homes (~$298,626, Zillow, June 2026) near UTSA and VA facilities.
- Leon Valley: Affordable (~$260,000, Zillow, June 2026) with Northside ISD schools and Veteran community centers.
For Classic Hill Country Charm
Dreaming of rolling hills, small-town vibes, and outdoor adventures? These towns northwest of San Antonio offer Hill Country serenity for Veterans.
Boerne
Boerne, 30 miles northwest, is a Hill Country gem with German heritage and a vibrant Main Street. The City of Boerne promotes Veteran-friendly events like Berges Fest, and the Cibolo Nature Center offers hiking.
- Vibe: Quaint, historic, nature-focused.
- Median Home Price: ~$500,000 (Zillow, June 2026).
- Commute to Audie L. Murphy VA Hospital: 30–35 minutes.
- Key School District: Boerne ISD.
- Notable Amenity: Cibolo Nature Center, with Veteran outdoor programs.
- Best For: Retired Veterans, nature-loving Military families.
Helotes
Helotes, 20 miles northwest, blends rural charm with modern subdivisions. The Cornyval Festival and Northside Independent School District make it family-friendly, while VA loan-eligible homes appeal to Veterans.
- Vibe: Rural, relaxed, community-driven.
- Median Home Price: ~$375,000 (Zillow, June 2026).
- Commute to Audie L. Murphy VA Hospital: 20–25 minutes.
- Key School District: Northside ISD.
- Notable Amenity: Old Town Helotes, with Military-friendly shops.
- Best For: Veterans seeking space, Military retirees.
Bulverde
Bulverde offers a peaceful Hill Country setting with larger lots and access to Guadalupe River State Park. Its proximity to VA clinics in New Braunfels makes it convenient for Veterans.
- Vibe: Tranquil, rural, nature-centric.
- Median Home Price: ~$450,000 (Zillow, June 2026).
- Commute to Audie L. Murphy VA Hospital: 30–35 minutes.
- Key School District: Comal ISD.
- Notable Amenity: Guadalupe River State Park, with Veteran kayaking groups.
- Best For: Outdoor-loving Veterans, retirees.
Also Consider:
- Fair Oaks Ranch: Upscale rural (~$550,000, Zillow, June 2026) with Boerne ISD schools and Veteran community events.
- Spring Branch: Quiet with homes (~$400,000, Zillow, June 2026) near Comal ISD schools.
- Kendall County: Rural with large lots (~$450,000, Zillow, June 2026) and Veteran-friendly outdoor amenities.
For Affordable & Growing Communities
Looking for budget-friendly homes near Military bases? These northeast suburbs offer value and strong Veteran communities.
Schertz & Cibolo
Schertz and Cibolo, near JBSA-Randolph, are hotspots for Military families. The Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City ISD is highly rated, and events like the Schertz Jubilee foster community. VA loan-eligible homes are abundant.
- Vibe: Affordable, Military-centric, growing.
- Median Home Price: ~$350,000 (Zillow, June 2026).
- Commute to Audie L. Murphy VA Hospital: 20–25 minutes.
- Key School District: Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City ISD.
- Notable Amenity: Pickrell Park, hosting Veteran events.
- Best For: First-time Veteran buyers, Military families.
New Braunfels
New Braunfels, 35 miles northeast, is known for the Comal and Guadalupe Rivers, ideal for Veteran outdoor enthusiasts. The New Braunfels Independent School District is top-rated, and VA-friendly homes are common.
- Vibe: Recreational, historic, laid-back.
- Median Home Price: ~$400,000 (Zillow, June 2026).
- Commute to Audie L. Murphy VA Hospital: 30–35 minutes.
- Key School District: New Braunfels ISD.
- Notable Amenity: Schlitterbahn Waterpark, with Military discounts.
- Best For: Active Veterans, Military families.
Also Consider:
- Live Oak: Affordable (~$260,000, Zillow, June 2026) with Judson ISD schools and proximity to JBSA-Randolph.
- Universal City: Military-friendly (~$270,000, Zillow, June 2026) near Randolph AFB.
- Converse: Budget-friendly (~$250,000, Zillow, June 2026) with Veteran community centers.
- Kirby: Very affordable (~$200,000, Zillow, June 2026) with easy access to Fort Sam Houston.
- Selma: Growing with homes (~$280,000, Zillow, June 2026) near Schertz-Cibolo ISD schools.
- Garden Ridge: Quiet with larger lots (~$400,000, Zillow, June 2026) and Comal ISD schools.
Master Comparison Table
| Location | Median Home Price | Vibe | Commute to VA Hospital | Key School District | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Downtown | ~$399,000 | Bustling, urban | 10–15 min | San Antonio ISD | Single Veterans, retirees |
| Government Hill | ~$250,000 | Historic, Military-centric | 10–15 min | San Antonio ISD | Veterans near bases, buyers |
| Southtown | ~$300,000 | Hip, creative | 10–15 min | San Antonio ISD | Creative Veterans, families |
| Alamo Heights | ~$650,000 | Upscale, walkable | 10–15 min | Alamo Heights ISD | Veteran families, officers |
| Terrell Hills | ~$575,000 | Prestigious, suburban | 10–15 min | Alamo Heights ISD | Veterans, Military professionals |
| Olmos Park | ~$600,000 | Elegant, serene | 5–10 min | Alamo Heights ISD | Retired Veterans, families |
| Stone Oak | ~$450,000 | Safe, modern | 15–20 min | North East ISD | Veteran families |
| Alamo Ranch | ~$350,000 | Modern, affordable | 20–25 min | Northside ISD | First-time Veteran buyers |
| Boerne | ~$500,000 | Quaint, historic | 30–35 min | Boerne ISD | Retired Veterans, nature lovers |
| Helotes | ~$375,000 | Rural, relaxed | 20–25 min | Northside ISD | Veterans seeking space |
| Bulverde | ~$450,000 | Tranquil, rural | 30–35 min | Comal ISD | Outdoor-loving Veterans |
| Schertz & Cibolo | ~$350,000 | Affordable, Military-centric | 20–25 min | Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City ISD | First-time Veteran buyers |
| New Braunfels | ~$400,000 | Recreational, laid-back | 30–35 min | New Braunfels ISD | Active Veterans, families |
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Spot
- Proximity to Military Bases and VA Facilities: Veterans near Fort Sam Houston (Government Hill, Terrell Hills) or Lackland AFB (Alamo Ranch) benefit from base amenities. The Audie L. Murphy VA Hospital is central, with clinics in New Braunfels and Schertz.
- VA Loan Eligibility: Most homes in these areas qualify for VA loans, offering zero-down options. Check with lenders for current rates.
- School Quality: Veteran families prioritize districts like Alamo Heights ISD, North East ISD, and Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City ISD for top education.
- Veteran Community Support: Look for towns with active Veteran organizations, like Schertz’s VFW Post or Boerne’s Veteran events.
- Cost of Living: San Antonio’s cost of living is ~8% below the national average . Kirby and Converse offer the best value.
- Lifestyle Needs: Urban Veterans may prefer Downtown, while retirees might choose Boerne’s tranquility.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most Veteran-friendly neighborhood in San Antonio?
Government Hill, near Fort Sam Houston, is highly Veteran-friendly due to affordable homes (~$250,000, Redfin, February 2026), base proximity, and access to VA services (10–15 minutes to Audie L. Murphy VA Hospital).
Which neighborhood is closest to JBSA bases?
Government Hill (Fort Sam Houston) and Alamo Ranch (Lackland AFB) are closest, with commutes under 10 minutes to their respective bases and 10–20 minutes to the VA hospital.
Are homes in San Antonio VA loan-eligible?
Most homes in these neighborhoods and towns qualify for VA loans, especially in affordable areas like Schertz, Kirby, and Alamo Ranch. Confirm with your lender for specifics.
What’s the most affordable town for Veterans near San Antonio?
Kirby offers the lowest median home prices (~$200,000, Zillow, June 2026) with proximity to Fort Sam Houston and a 15-minute commute to the VA hospital.
Which areas have the best schools for Veteran families?
Alamo Heights ISD (Alamo Heights, Terrell Hills, Olmos Park) and Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City ISD (Schertz, Cibolo) are top-rated for Veteran families seeking quality education.
How far is New Braunfels from VA facilities?
New Braunfels is ~30–35 minutes from Audie L. Murphy VA Hospital but has a local VA clinic, making it convenient for Veterans seeking healthcare access.
What makes Boerne appealing for retired Veterans?
Boerne’s small-town charm, Veteran-friendly events like Berges Fest, and outdoor amenities like Cibolo Nature Center make it ideal for retirees seeking tranquility.
Is Stone Oak safe for Veteran families?
Yes, Stone Oak’s low crime rate, gated communities, and North East ISD schools make it a safe, family-friendly choice for Veterans (~15–20 minutes to VA hospital).
Are there Veteran discounts in San Antonio neighborhoods?
Many areas, like Downtown’s River Walk and Stone Oak’s Village, offer Military discounts at restaurants, shops, and attractions like Schlitterbahn in New Braunfels.
Which town is best for outdoor-loving Veterans?
New Braunfels offers river activities, hiking, and Schlitterbahn Waterpark, with Veteran-friendly outdoor groups and a ~30-minute commute to VA facilities.
Tips for Veterans Exploring San Antonio
- Visit Military Bases: Tour Fort Sam Houston or Lackland AFB to explore commissaries and Veteran services.
- Attend Veteran Events: Check out Schertz’s Jubilee or Boerne’s Berges Fest to connect with local Veteran communities.
- Research VA Loan Options: Use resources like the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to understand loan benefits.
- Explore in Person: Walk neighborhoods like Government Hill or Southtown to feel their Military-friendly vibe.
- Connect with Locals: Visit Veteran-owned businesses, like coffee shops in Helotes, to get insider tips.
Making Your Move
San Antonio’s neighborhoods and surrounding towns offer Veterans and Military families a range of options, from urban hubs like Downtown to affordable suburbs like Schertz and serene Hill Country towns like Boerne.
With VA loan-eligible homes, top schools, and proximity to bases and VA facilities, you can find a community that fits your lifestyle.
Explore these areas, attend Veteran events, and leverage Military resources to make an informed decision for your next home.
Helpful Resources for Your San Antonio Home Search
To assist with your research, we’ve compiled a list of official and authoritative resources for information on military services, schools, safety, and local government in the greater San Antonio region.
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Military & Relocation Resources
- Joint Base San Antonio (JBSA) Official Website – The primary portal for all JBSA locations, including Fort Sam Houston, Lackland AFB, and Randolph AFB.
- JBSA Military & Family Readiness Center – Your most important resource for relocation assistance, spouse employment programs, and school liaison services.
- City of San Antonio Office of Military and Veteran Affairs – A hub of local resources, events, and support networks specifically for the San Antonio military community.
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Local Community & Schools
- Bexar County Official Website – The main government site for information on property taxes, records, and county-wide services.
- GreatSchools.org – San Antonio – A high-authority site for detailed school ratings and parent reviews for all local districts.
- Alamo Heights ISD – The official website for one of the area’s top-rated school districts.
- North East ISD (NEISD) – The official website for the district serving areas like Stone Oak.
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VA & State of Texas Benefits
- South Texas Veterans Health Care System – The official VA page for all regional facilities, including the Audie L. Murphy Memorial Veterans’ Hospital.
- Texas Veterans Commission (TVC) – Your state-level resource for benefits claims, employment services, and healthcare advocacy.
- Texas Veterans Land Board (VLB) – The official site for Texas-specific low-interest land, home, and home improvement loans for Veterans.
For your home purchase in the San Antonio area
Explore the Complete San Antonio VA Loan Guide
- The Main Guide: Your complete overview of using a VA loan in the San Antonio area.
- Where to Live: Discover the top neighborhoods and Hill Country towns for military families near JBSA.
- The Real Cost: A detailed breakdown of the VA funding fee, closing costs, and property taxes in Bexar County.
- The VA Appraisal: Learn how to pass the appraisal and understand Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs) in Texas.
- The PCS Move: A specific guide for active-duty members on navigating a move to San Antonio with a VA loan.