Boerne, TX vs. Converse, TX: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Which city gives you more for your money – Boerne or Converse? This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison between Boerne and Converse, perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real cost of living in these two Texas cities in 2025.
Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living differences. Here’s how typical housing expenses compare between Boerne and Converse:
| Housing Type | Boerne | Converse |
|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $450,000 | $325,000 |
| Mortgage Payment (20% down) | $2,150/month | $1,550/month |
| 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,800/month | $1,400/month |
🏆 Winner: Converse. Housing costs are significantly lower in Converse compared to Boerne, with savings of $600/month or more on a typical home.
Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility bills are another important monthly expense. In Boerne, expect to pay around $180/month for electricity, water, and gas for a 1,500 sq ft home. Costs are slightly lower in Converse at about $160/month.
Both cities experience hot Texas summers, so budget more for A/C from June through September. Winter heating needs are minimal.
🏆 Winner: Converse, but utility costs are fairly similar between the two cities. You might save $20-30/month in Converse.
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery prices are comparable in Boerne and Converse. Budget around $350-400/month per person for food and household items in either city.
Eating out is also similarly priced. A meal at a mid-range restaurant averages $18 in Boerne vs $16 in Converse. Fast food runs about $8 per meal in both cities.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Costs for groceries and dining out are nearly identical between Boerne and Converse.
Taxes and Fees
Texas has no state income tax, so you’ll keep more of your paycheck in either city compared to states with high income taxes. However, property taxes and sales taxes still apply.
Boerne’s property tax rate is 2.29% vs Converse’s rate of 2.81%. For a $400K home, annual property taxes would be $9,160 in Boerne and $11,240 in Converse.
Sales tax is 8.25% in both cities, a combination of the 6.25% Texas state sales tax plus local city and county taxes.
🏆 Winner: Boerne. Lower property tax rates give Boerne the edge, especially for homeowners.
Cost of Living Summary
| Category | Boerne | Converse |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $2,150 | $1,550 |
| Utilities | $180 | $160 |
| Groceries | $400 | $400 |
| Transportation | $130 | $120 |
| Taxes | $765 | $935 |
| Misc | $400 | $350 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $4,025 | $3,515 |
*Estimated pre-tax monthly expenses for a family of 3 in 2025. Actual amounts will vary.
Lifestyle Considerations
While Converse is more affordable, Boerne offers a charming historic downtown, highly-rated schools, and easy access to the Texas Hill Country for outdoor recreation. Converse has a lower cost of living but fewer amenities – most shopping and entertainment requires a trip into San Antonio.
Boerne is about 10°F cooler than Converse during the summer thanks to its higher elevation. But Converse’s location on the outskirts of San Antonio offers shorter commutes and more convenient access to big city amenities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Boerne more affordable than Converse?
No, Converse is more affordable than Boerne overall, primarily due to lower housing costs. See our full cost of living breakdown for Boerne.
Which city has lower rent prices?
Converse has lower rent than Boerne. A typical 2BR apartment runs about $1,400/month in Converse compared to $1,800/month in Boerne.
Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
Homes are significantly less expensive in Converse. The median home price in Converse is around $325,000 vs $450,000 in Boerne as of 2025.
The Bottom Line
Converse offers a lower overall cost of living, with particularly large savings on housing expenses. A household moving from Converse to Boerne might pay $600 more per month for a similar home.
However, Boerne provides a higher quality of life for many, with top-notch schools, a quaint downtown, and gorgeous Hill Country views. It’s ideal for families craving an upscale small-town lifestyle and who can afford the higher price tag.
Ultimately, the right choice depends on your budget, lifestyle priorities, and how much space you need. Run the numbers for your specific situation and see our average monthly expenses in Boerne to estimate your costs.
Considering other Texas cities? Check out our cost of living comparisons for major metros like Austin, Dallas, and Houston to find your ideal hometown.