My family moved here when I was a kid. Homes are going for about $269,700 on average. Crime rate is something to consider -San Marcos sits at 363.6 per 100K. Poverty rate is 11.5%, which is around average. With a population of 68,920, San Marcos is a smaller city. Household incomes average around $51,030 in San Marcos. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The city has invested a lot in new development. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Property taxes are high but you get good services. The city has invested a lot in new development. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. The food scene here is surprisingly good. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The weather takes some getting used to. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The weather takes some getting used to. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. The weather takes some getting used to. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The city has invested a lot in new development. The suburbs are where most families end up. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. The weather takes some getting used to. The suburbs are where most families end up. The suburbs are where most families end up. The weather takes some getting used to.
20 upvotes
7 Replies
Ellie Ramirez
interesting, hadn't considered that
38 upvotes
John G.
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem surprisingly good.
I've been here 11 years and it's not perfect but it works for me. The thing nobody mentions is walkability. It's wild and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the walkability is legit. And if you're into golfing, this place is decent.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Riverside side vs the Meadowbrook side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
No regrets on my end..
28 upvotes
Naomi Myers
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in South for 6 years. Moved from LA for weather. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is hit or miss. We bought in 2017 at k and it's now worth up significantly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 2-bed in a safe area. It's gotten pricier but still beats the coasts.
**Employment:**
tech is strong here. real estate is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are pricey for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it was the best decision I ever made. The outdoor scene is challenging - we have lakes within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. South schools are challenging. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.
**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Limited public transit options. Limited high-paying job options. And outdoor recreation can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 9/10. Good luck with whatever you decide.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
22 upvotes
Eliana R.
bump
8 upvotes
Elena Myers
The food scene here is challenging. Tons of great BBQ places. I love the pace of life here.
7 upvotes
Melanie Scott
Used to live on the Downtown side, now on the Greenfield side. Completely different vibe. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else right now.
4 upvotes
Miles S.
Renting here right now, paying about /mo for a 3-bedroom. the quality of life is solid. Compared to Charlotte it's solid.
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