Insights on ESA
San Antonio’s housing market continues to evolve as the city balances affordability, rising inventory, and shifting buyer expectations. With increased sales, more homes on the market, and a rise in flexible housing options like casitas, 2025 is shaping up to be a unique year for both homebuyers and sellers.
Whether you're considering your first home in Converse, upgrading in Stone Oak, or investing near Downtown, here’s what you need to know.
Sales Are Up, But the Market Has Stabilized
Home sales in the San Antonio metro area rose 7% in 2024, signaling renewed confidence despite elevated mortgage rates. January 2025 saw continued growth, with a 6.6% year-over-year increase.
Although numbers remain below the pandemic-era highs, the current pace suggests a healthy and sustainable market. Builders offering incentives and more flexible mortgage options are helping drive this steady uptick.
Home Prices Are Adjusting—and That’s Good for Buyers
The median home price across the San Antonio area fell to $308,101 in 2024, a 3% drop from the previous year. While that might concern sellers, it’s 32% higher than 2019, showing long-term appreciation remains strong.
For buyers, especially in neighborhoods like Helotes, Alamo Ranch, and Schertz, this adjustment brings more buying power and less competition.
Inventory Is Growing and Homes Are Sitting Longer
If you’re buying in 2025, you have options. The housing supply has expanded, giving buyers more negotiating room and reducing the bidding wars that dominated during the pandemic.
Homes now sit on the market for an average of 75 days in San Antonio—much longer than the national average of 49 days—giving buyers more time to weigh decisions and compare properties.
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) Are Gaining Popularity
Casitas, or ADUs, are making waves across the city. After San Antonio eased zoning restrictions in 2023, permits for backyard homes surged by 38%.
Why it matters:
Extra income as short- or long-term rentals
Housing for extended family
Increased property value
Neighborhoods with larger lot sizes like Southside San Antonio, North Central, and Castle Hills are seeing more interest in these flexible housing solutions.
Final Thoughts: A Balanced Market with Room to Move
2025 is shaping up to be a strong year for San Antonio real estate, with a balanced market that favors smart planning and flexibility. Sellers can benefit from long-term appreciation, while buyers are enjoying more selection and softer pricing.
If you're thinking about buying, selling, or investing this year, now is the time to speak with a local real estate expert and explore opportunities in your neighborhood.
As the Texas heat intensifies, San Antonio residents eagerly anticipate pool season. Whether you're a pool owner or planning to visit one of the city's public swimming facilities, prioritizing safety and proper maintenance ensures a refreshing and secure experience for everyone.
Public Pool Access in San Antonio (Updated for 2025)
San Antonio's Parks and Recreation Department will once again open 24 outdoor public pools across the city for the 2025 summer season, along with access to one indoor natatorium. Offerings will include open swim, free swim lessons for children, and low-cost adult water fitness classes.
In May 2025, the city plans to launch a preseason opening at 11 select pools, giving early access to residents eager to cool off ahead of the full summer schedule. This phased opening is part of the city’s continued effort to expand access to recreational swimming, provide lifeguard employment opportunities, and promote water safety education.
Residents are encouraged to check the official San Antonio Parks & Recreation website or follow city social media channels for up-to-date hours, pool locations, and enrollment dates for swim programs.
Pool Safety: A Community Responsibility
Water safety is paramount, especially during peak swimming seasons. San Antonio emphasizes the importance of educating residents on best practices to prevent accidents and ensure a safe environment for all swimmers.
Supervision: Always monitor children when they are in or near water.
Education: Enroll in swim lessons to build confidence and competence in the water.
Preparedness: Learn CPR and keep emergency equipment nearby.
By fostering a culture of awareness and preparedness, the community can significantly reduce water-related incidents.
Essential Pool Maintenance for Homeowners
For those with private pools, regular maintenance is crucial to ensure both safety and longevity. Adhering to a consistent care routine helps prevent issues such as algae growth and equipment malfunction.
Daily Skimming: Remove debris from the water's surface to maintain clarity and hygiene.
Weekly Cleaning: Brush walls and tiles to prevent buildup, and vacuum the pool floor to eliminate sediment.
Water Testing: Regularly assess chemical levels to maintain proper pH and chlorine balance, ensuring a safe swimming environment.
Implementing these steps can enhance your pool's performance and extend its lifespan.
Professional Pool Services in San Antonio
For comprehensive care, many homeowners turn to professional pool builders and maintenance services. Companies like Cody Pools offer expertise in pool construction and upkeep, ensuring that your backyard oasis remains in top condition throughout the year.
Conclusion
Embracing the joys of swimming during San Antonio's hot summers comes with the responsibility of safety and proper maintenance. By staying informed and proactive, residents can enjoy a fun, refreshing, and secure pool season.
Stay cool and stay safe, San Antonio! ☀️💦
San Antonio, affectionately known as the Heart and Soul of Texas, offers a rich blend of history, culture, and charm that continues to attract visitors from around the world. But it’s not just a tourist destination—it’s a place where locals experience living history, authentic flavors, and vibrant community pride every day.
Whether you’re exploring as a resident or seeing the city for the first time, here’s what makes San Antonio so special right now.
Discover the New UNESCO World Heritage Center
Located on Roosevelt Avenue near Mission Marquee Plaza, San Antonio’s new World Heritage Center serves as a gateway to the city’s five historic Spanish colonial missions. These landmarks—including the Alamo, Mission San José, Mission Concepción, Mission San Juan, and Mission Espada—were collectively designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2015.
The center offers:
Interactive exhibits exploring mission history and culture
Educational programming and lectures
Family-friendly experiences and local art showcases
It’s a major boost for residents in Southside San Antonio, providing an accessible space for community engagement and heritage tourism.
The River Walk: San Antonio’s Urban Oasis
Winding through Downtown San Antonio, the River Walk is both a tranquil escape and a bustling hotspot. Locals enjoy:
Riverside dining at local favorites
Live music and parades year-round
Seasonal events and artisan markets
If you're in nearby neighborhoods like King William, La Villita, or Downtown proper, the River Walk is part of everyday life—and one of the most photographed places in Texas.
Cultural Celebrations All Year Long
San Antonio knows how to throw a party, and its festivals are a true reflection of its diverse roots. Fiesta San Antonio remains the crown jewel, drawing thousands each spring, but other celebrations like Diwali SA, Luminaria, and Day of the Dead events showcase the city’s multicultural pride.
Many events are hosted in or near Hemisfair, Market Square, and the Eastside, helping local vendors, artists, and families come together around food, music, and tradition.
Final Thoughts: Why Now Is the Time to Explore San Antonio
Whether you're planning a staycation, hosting out-of-town family, or rediscovering your own neighborhood, there’s no shortage of reasons to fall in love with San Antonio all over again. From its World Heritage landmarks to its ever-evolving food, arts, and festival scene—this city is a celebration of culture, community, and creativity.
San Antonio’s food scene has officially stepped into the spotlight. With a Michelin star in its pocket, a UNESCO culinary designation, and an explosion of diverse and creative restaurants across the city, San Antonio is no longer just “that place for Tex-Mex.” It’s a true foodie destination.
Let’s break down why.
Southtown’s Mixtli Puts San Antonio on the Michelin Map
In a major culinary milestone, Mixtli, an intimate restaurant located in Southtown, became one of the first Texas establishments to earn a Michelin Star in 2024. Known for its rotating nine-course tasting menus inspired by regional Mexican cuisines, Mixtli was also awarded the AAA Five Diamond Award, a rare honor only shared by 2 other restaurants in Texas.
Chef duo Rico Torres and Diego Galicia are at the helm, using indigenous ingredients and storytelling to reimagine pre-Hispanic and contemporary Mexican flavors in a modern setting.
This recognition places Southtown on par with national foodie neighborhoods in cities like Austin, Chicago, and LA.
A UNESCO City of Gastronomy – And Proud of It
San Antonio isn’t just riding a trend—it’s rooted in tradition. The city was named a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, the second in the U.S. and first in Texas to earn the distinction. That title highlights the city’s deep culinary heritage—from Spanish colonial influences to German, African-American, and Indigenous roots that have shaped iconic dishes like barbacoa, tamales, and puffy tacos.
Neighborhoods like the Westside, Southside, and Downtown are rich in longstanding family-owned restaurants that preserve these traditions.
San Antonio Restaurants Gaining National Attention
Beyond Mixtli, several local spots are gaining acclaim from national publications and the Michelin Guide:
2M Smokehouse (Southeast): Beloved for elevated BBQ with Mexican influences
Ladino (Pearl District): Modern Mediterranean with wood-fired flair
Cullum’s Attaboy (Midtown): Retro-style bistro with serious creativity
The Jerk Shack (Westside): Caribbean flavors that pack a punch
Southerleigh (Pearl District): Southern comfort food with a twist
Each one represents a different flavor of the city, tied to local culture and character.
What This Means for Locals and Visitors
For residents in neighborhoods like Southtown, Downtown, and the Pearl, the city’s culinary growth is more than just buzz—it’s a lifestyle. With nationally ranked restaurants in walkable, mixed-use districts and a surge in chef-owned businesses, San Antonio is growing as a place where food drives community and creativity.
And for visitors? It means a destination where tacos and fine dining live side by side—and both are unforgettable.
San Antonio is investing big in its downtown—and the changes on the horizon are poised to reshape the city’s future. With plans for a new sports and entertainment district, an expanded convention center, and infrastructure upgrades throughout key corridors like Broadway, downtown is entering a new era of revitalization. Here's what locals need to know.
A New Sports & Entertainment District Could Anchor the Downtown Core
At the center of the city's long-term vision is a proposed sports and entertainment district—nicknamed Project Marvel—that could bring a brand-new arena for the San Antonio Spurs to the Hemisfair area. City officials and developers have discussed the idea of replacing the Institute of Texan Cultures site with a state-of-the-art arena and building a land bridge over I-37 to reconnect the area with the Alamodome.
Other key elements of the plan include:
A multi-purpose venue in the historic federal courthouse building
New hospitality spaces and public areas
Modernized infrastructure to support large-scale events
This ambitious plan is projected to cost $2.75 billion or more, funded through a mix of public and private investment, and could become a magnet for national tourism, sports fans, and conventions.
Convention Center Expansion in the Works
To stay competitive with cities like Austin, Houston, and Dallas, San Antonio is also moving forward with a major expansion of the Henry B. González Convention Center. Plans call for up to 200,000 additional square feet of exhibit space, giving San Antonio the capacity to host larger events and trade shows.
The proposed expansion ties into broader downtown development, including:
A new convention center hotel
Street-level enhancements for better walkability
Stronger connectivity between venues and nearby attractions
This would reinforce the downtown area as a go-to destination for national conferences and boost the local economy.
Why It Matters for Residents and Local Business Owners
If you live, work, or run a business in or near Downtown San Antonio, these developments could have a major impact on your daily life and bottom line. Expect more foot traffic, increased property values, and an influx of visitors drawn to new amenities and venues.
The city is betting big on revitalizing downtown—not just for tourism, but to create a more connected, livable, and economically vibrant core for all San Antonians.
San Antonio proudly wears the title of Military City USA, and for good reason. With the presence of Joint Base San Antonio (JBSA), a deep respect for service members, and a wide network of resources for both active-duty families and veterans, this city offers more than just a duty station—it offers a home.
Here’s why military families across the U.S. are choosing to plant roots in the Alamo City.
Joint Base San Antonio: A Powerful Military Network
San Antonio is home to Joint Base San Antonio (JBSA)—the largest joint military base in the country—made up of three major installations:
Lackland Air Force Base (Southwest San Antonio): Known as the “Gateway to the Air Force,” this base is where every enlisted Airman begins their career. It also houses the 37th Training Wing and a wide range of technical programs.
Randolph Air Force Base (Northeast San Antonio): Located in the Universal City area, Randolph serves as the headquarters for Air Education and Training Command (AETC), overseeing pilot and instructor training.
Fort Sam Houston (Alamo Heights & Midtown): Often called the “Home of Army Medicine,” Fort Sam hosts the Brooke Army Medical Center (BAMC) and is the hub of military medical education in the U.S.
Together, these facilities support over 80,000 active-duty personnel, civilians, and contractors in the area—and many more veterans who choose to stay after service.
Support Systems for Military Families
San Antonio goes above and beyond to ensure military families are cared for, whether they’re arriving for a new assignment or preparing for transition:
Military & Family Readiness Centers (M&FRCs) at each JBSA location offer financial counseling, deployment support, education planning, and spouse employment programs.
The Supporting Military Families San Antonio (SMF.SA) initiative—launched by the Greater San Antonio Chamber—centralizes hundreds of resources, making it easier to find help for childcare, mental health, housing, and more.
Veteran service organizations, such as Soldier’s Angels and SAMMinistries, offer everything from food support to reintegration guidance.
Career & Economic Opportunities
Military families often face employment challenges—but in San Antonio, there’s strong support to help spouses and transitioning service members thrive:
Major employers like USAA, Valero, and H-E-B offer veteran hiring pipelines and career development programs.
JBSA Employment Readiness Programs provide job fairs, resume help, and direct connections to companies looking to hire military-affiliated candidates.
The city’s tech, healthcare, education, and construction sectors continue to grow—offering job security beyond the uniform.
The Bottom Line
Military families choose San Antonio not just for the assignments—but for the community, culture, and support. Whether you’re just arriving at JBSA or retiring here for good, San Antonio offers a place to belong, grow, and thrive.
San Antonio's historic Gunter Hotel is undergoing a transformative $50 million renovation aimed at restoring its prominence as a cultural and musical landmark in the heart of downtown. This extensive project seeks to honor the hotel's storied past while integrating modern amenities to enhance the guest experience.
Revitalizing Musical Roots
The Gunter Hotel's deep connection to music history is central to its renovation. Notably, blues legend Robert Johnson recorded in Room 414 during the 1930s, cementing the hotel's place in musical lore. To celebrate this heritage, plans include the addition of a new recording studio and the reopening of Bar 414, creating vibrant spaces for artists and music enthusiasts alike.
Enhancing Guest Experience
The renovation involves reconfiguring the hotel's accommodations, reducing the number of rooms to create 30 expansive suites named after notable musician guests. Each suite will feature a record player, blending nostalgic charm with modern luxury. Upgrades to essential systems, such as air conditioning, water pipes, and internet, will ensure guest comfort while preserving the building's historic character.
Historical Significance
The Gunter Hotel's history dates back to 1837, just a year after the Battle of the Alamo, when the Frontier Inn opened on the site. Over the years, the location evolved, eventually becoming the Gunter Hotel in 1909. Throughout its existence, the hotel has hosted numerous notable figures, including U.S. Presidents and celebrities, and has witnessed significant historical events.
Community-Centric Additions
The renovation also includes the introduction of Paris Baguette on the ground floor, offering guests and locals a new spot to enjoy quality baked goods and beverages. This addition reflects the Gunter's commitment to serving both visitors and the San Antonio community.
Looking Ahead
With completion expected in the spring, the Gunter Hotel's renovation is poised to enrich San Antonio's cultural landscape, attracting both travelers and residents to experience its renewed vibrancy. By honoring its rich history and embracing modern enhancements, the Gunter Hotel aims to reclaim its status as an iconic destination in downtown San Antonio.
A major new development is coming to the Southwest Side: Port San Antonio has unveiled plans for a cutting-edge office tower that’s as forward-thinking as the companies it aims to serve. The project is part of the Port’s rapidly growing Tech Port campus, already home to some of the region’s most dynamic work in aerospace, cybersecurity, robotics, and advanced manufacturing.
Expected to break ground in 2025, this 16-story tower will stand as one of the tallest buildings in the area—and a new symbol of San Antonio’s tech future.
Built for Innovation, Designed to Inspire
Spanning more than 240,000 square feet, the high-rise will feature flexible office layouts, shared workspaces, and collaboration zones tailored to tech-forward tenants. Port San Antonio envisions the building as a hub for cross-industry partnerships, where startups, research teams, and global enterprises can come together to create.
The design comes from internationally acclaimed architecture firm Pelli Clarke & Partners, with construction led by Sundt Construction. The tower will feature a sleek glass exterior, panoramic views of downtown and Kelly Field, and energy-efficient systems throughout.
Inside, expect natural lighting, smart infrastructure, and next-gen amenities—including tech showcase areas, co-working lounges, and high-tech conference rooms.
More Than Just Office Space
What sets this project apart is its role in Port San Antonio’s long-term vision. This isn’t just about real estate—it’s about creating a connected, innovation-first community.
Over the last several years, the Port has grown into a powerhouse for job creation, research, and public-private partnerships. Projects like the Boeing Center at Tech Port and collaborations with national defense and aerospace leaders have made headlines.
This tower builds on that momentum—adding vertical space to an already bustling horizontal campus. And by managing the project directly, Port San Antonio will reinvest profits back into the local economy, education initiatives, and infrastructure.
A Game-Changer for Southwest San Antonio
Port San Antonio’s leadership says the tower will attract new tenants and further establish San Antonio as a national center for tech and defense innovation. With tenants likely to include companies in aviation, cybersecurity, and AI, the building is expected to bring hundreds of high-paying jobs to the region.
It’s also a sign of growth for Southwest San Antonio, a historically underdeveloped part of town now emerging as a critical innovation zone.
Construction is expected to take about two years once underway.