Everything You Should Know Before Moving to San Marcos, TX
Thinking about moving to San Marcos, TX? With a vibrant population of 70,372 and a youthful median age, San Marcos boasts affordable living—median home prices around $315,000 and average rent near $1,350. The city enjoys a warm climate with over 62% sunny days, and short commutes averaging 24 minutes. Education is a standout thanks to Texas State University, and residents benefit from a lively community, low cost of living, and easy access to nature along the San Marcos River. Learn more about housing, schools, and local amenities below to plan your next move!
Demographics - San Marcos, TX
Demographics - San Marcos, TX
San Marcos is home to about 70,000 residents, featuring a youthful vibe with a median age of 24.8, a nearly even gender balance, and a diverse community where over 21% speak a language other than English. The city’s population density of 2,200 people per square mile and a strong representation of Hispanic and White residents create a vibrant, multicultural atmosphere.
Population:
70,372
Density:
2,200 per sq mi
Median Age:
24.8
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
21.4%
Ethnic Composition
White:
57.7%
Black:
6.9%
Asian:
2.1%
Others:
33.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in San Marcos, TX?
With a cost of living index just below the national average, San Marcos offers affordable housing—median home values are around $315,000 and average rent is about $1,350. Utility and grocery costs are reasonable, and Texas’ lack of state income tax helps residents stretch their budgets further.
Median House Value:
$315,000
Gross Rent:
$1,350
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$135
Auto Insurance:
$1,350
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,850
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$675
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
0%
Cost Of Living Index:
98.6
Grocery:
91.2
Housing:
95.0
Utilities:
104.1
Transportation:
92.5
Health Care:
97.8
Miscellaneous:
99.0
Crime
Is San Marcos, TX a safe place to live?
San Marcos experiences moderate crime rates, with a 1 in 380 chance of violent crime and a 1 in 40 chance of property crime annually. While the overall crime index is higher than the national average, most incidents are non-violent, and many neighborhoods remain family-friendly and welcoming.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
263
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,480
Crime Index:
2,743
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 380
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 40
Weather
What is the weather like in San Marcos, TX year-round?
Residents enjoy a warm climate, with summer highs reaching the mid-90s and mild winters averaging in the low 60s. The city receives about 35.5 inches of rainfall annually and boasts 62% sunny days, making it ideal for outdoor activities along the San Marcos River.
Winter
Min:
41°F
Max:
63°F
Spring
Min:
56°F
Max:
80°F
Summer
Min:
72°F
Max:
96°F
Fall
Min:
56°F
Max:
82°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
35.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
The community features a median household income of $44,800 and a family income of $62,400, though the area’s 27% poverty rate reflects a significant student population from Texas State University. Most residents have at least a high school education, commute about 24 minutes, and enjoy a low unemployment rate of 3.8%.
Median Income:
$22,000
Household Income:
$44,800
Family Income:
$62,400
Per Capita Income:
$25,600
Income Male:
$27,200
Income Female:
$23,400
Poverty Rate:
27.2%
Non English Speakers:
21.4%
Rent:
$1,350
Unemployment Rate:
3.8%
Public Transport Usage:
2.5%
Commute Time:
23.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
89.6%
Bachelors or More:
30.2%
Education
How are the schools in San Marcos, TX?
San Marcos offers a range of educational opportunities, from quality public and private schools to higher education at Texas State University, which enrolls about 38,000 students. Local schools maintain favorable student-teacher ratios, supporting a strong academic environment for families.
Public Schools
Name:
San Marcos High School
Street:
2601 Rattler Rd
Phone:
512-393-6800
Students:
2,200
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.7
Name:
De Zavala Elementary School
Street:
600 W Hopkins St
Phone:
512-393-6250
Students:
550
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.3
Private Schools
Name:
San Marcos Baptist Academy
Street:
2801 Ranch Rd 12
Phone:
512-753-8000
Students:
300
Colleges
Name:
Texas State University
City:
San Marcos
State:
TX
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
38,000
Name:
Austin Community College – Hays Campus
City:
Kyle
State:
TX
Distance:
10 miles
Students:
6,500
Healthcare
San Marcos provides reliable healthcare services, including the CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Hospital and a physician ratio of 1.9 per 1,000 residents. Nearly 80% of the population has health insurance, giving locals good access to medical care and emergency services.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Central Texas Medical Center (now CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Hospital – San Marcos)
Address:
1301 Wonder World Dr, San Marcos, TX 78666
Phone:
(512) 353-8979
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.9
Health Insurance Coverage:
79.5%
Health Care Index:
69.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in San Marcos, TX?
The housing market in San Marcos is competitive, with a median home price of $315,000 and a strong rental market—average two-bedroom apartments rent for $1,350. Home values have appreciated by 4.6% in the past year, and the area’s low foreclosure and vacancy rates indicate stable demand.
Median Home Price:
$315,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,350
Owner Occupied Rate:
27.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.0%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.6%
New Construction Rate:
2.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
San Marcos residents handle vehicle registration and licensing through the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles, with the nearest full-service office located in Austin. Convenient online and phone services are available for routine DMV needs.
State:
Texas
Department:
Texas Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
4000 Jackson Ave, Austin, TX 78731
Phone:
1-888-368-4689
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.