Random thought, I'm originally from Salt Lake City and Household incomes average around $88,257 in New Braunfels. Poverty rate is 4.1%, which is pretty low. Rent is about $1,536/month for a decent place. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The food scene here is surprisingly good. What are your go-to spots? The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The city has invested a lot in new development. The parks and outdoor areas are a huge plus. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level.
23 upvotes
16 Replies
Sophie
underrated comment
40 upvotes
Paisley M.
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a nurse who relocated here from Atlanta about 13 years ago. The main reasons were a fresh start and a job opportunity.
Pros I've experienced:
- Growing food and restaurant scene
- Four distinct seasons
- Close to major attractions
Cons that are real:
- Nightlife is limited
- Bugs and humidity in summer
Financially, we've found it solid compared to where we came from. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable. Groceries are reasonable, gas is improving.
Socially, it's improved dramatically in recent years. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
36 upvotes
Genesis R.
We moved here with our family and it exceeded my expectations. Schools in Downtown area are better than expected. Kids love it here.
33 upvotes
Elizabeth Price
yep
29 upvotes
Grayson Robinson
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 2-bedroom. I'm still on the fence after all this time. Compared to Houston it's solid.
29 upvotes
Jace Myers
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a sales manager, 25, moved here 11 years ago from Atlanta. I've lived in Lakewood and Old Town, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Cost of living is very reasonable
2. Active local events and festivals
3. Good airport with direct flights
4. The people are generally solid - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Traffic during rush hour is rough
2. Homeless population growing downtown
3. The healthcare situation is developing and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Lakewood: Great for young professionals. surprisingly good vibes, walkable.
- Old Town: More affordable, family-friendly.
**Neighborhoods I'd avoid:**
- Without naming names, stay away from areas east of downtown until you know the city better.
**Cost comparison:**
Coming from Atlanta, everything felt average. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are reasonable. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $90K-$70K here.
**Final verdict:**
Hope this helps!. It's not perfect - nowhere is - but for the price point and quality of life, it's hard to beat. DM me if you have specific questions.
29 upvotes
seattlegirl2020
OK so I've been meaning to write this for a while. I moved here 4 years ago from Tampa and here's my honest breakdown:
Housing: Lots of new construction which should help. We're paying /mo for a 2-bed in Meadowbrook. It's underrated for what you get.
Jobs: The market is pricey right now, especially in hospitality. If you're in manufacturing you might struggle.
People: Generally decent. It took about 6 months to build a solid friend group.
Food: excellent. Tons of options if you like farm-to-table.
Good luck with whatever you decide..
19 upvotes
Xavier Robinson
Great question. I'll try to be comprehensive here.
I'm a accountant who relocated here from Miami about 8 years ago. The main reasons were family and quality of life.
Pros I've experienced:
- Nice parks and green spaces
- Four distinct seasons
- Close to major attractions
Cons that are real:
- Limited public transit options
- Limited high-paying job options
Financially, we've found it underrated compared to where we came from. If you look outside the main areas you can find deals. Groceries are stable, gas is average.
Socially, I love the pace of life here. Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
17 upvotes
Audrey Reyes
Weather-wise, the summers are better than expected and winters are manageable. You get used to it after the first year.
15 upvotes
Maya Hall
Hot take but it's not perfect but it works for me. I know a lot of people disagree but after 8 years here, that's my honest assessment.
14 upvotes
Emilia Hernandez
thanks for sharing
14 upvotes
Olivia
Came here for cost of living and stayed because I have mixed feelings honestly. The cultural scene is honestly better than expected and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
13 upvotes
Savannah Foster
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 4-bedroom. it was the best decision I ever made. Compared to Minneapolis it's solid.
10 upvotes
Emmett Turner
I'm a pharmacist and I've found I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now. The community is excellent and there's always something going on.
7 upvotes
Emily W.
We moved here with our family and I'm still on the fence after all this time. Schools in Highland area are surprisingly good. Kids love it here.
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