Converse is considered moderately affordable in 2025, with average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment around $1,450 and utilities slightly lower than the national average.
When Lila and her husband moved to Converse, TX in 2025, they were pleasantly surprised by the reasonable cost of living compared to other suburbs near San Antonio. “We found a cozy 2-bedroom apartment for just under $1,500 a month,” Lila shared. “And our utility bills have been manageable, even with the Texas heat!”
For those considering a move to Converse, it’s important to understand the various expenses that contribute to the overall cost of living. Let’s break down the key factors, from housing and utilities to groceries and taxes.
Housing Costs in Converse
Housing is typically the largest expense in any household budget. In Converse, renters can expect to pay around $1,450 per month for a 2-bedroom apartment. Prices may vary slightly depending on the neighborhood and amenities, with newer complexes commanding higher rents.
For those looking to purchase a home, the median price for a 3-bedroom house in Converse hovers around $280,000. However, prices can range from $220,000 for older homes to over $350,000 for newer builds in sought-after neighborhoods. Some key factors to consider:
- Homes in established neighborhoods near Judson ISD schools tend to be more affordable
- Newer developments along Loop 1604 often have higher prices but more modern amenities
- HOA fees are common in many Converse neighborhoods, averaging $200-400 annually
Utilities and Energy Bills
Utility costs in Converse are generally in line with the national average, with some seasonal variation. Residents can expect to pay around $150-200 per month for basic utilities like electricity, water, and trash for a 2-bedroom apartment. Keep in mind that cooling costs may spike during the hot Texas summers.
| Utility | Average Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Electricity | $100-150 |
| Water/Sewer | $40-60 |
| Trash | $20-30 |
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Food costs in Converse are slightly lower than the national average. A single person can expect to spend around $300-350 per month on groceries, while a family of four may budget closer to $800-1,000. This assumes a mix of cooking at home and occasional dining out.
To get a sense of local prices, here’s a sample “grocery basket”:
- 1 gallon of milk: $3.50
- 1 dozen eggs: $2.75
- 1 lb of chicken breast: $4.00
- 1 lb of ground beef: $5.50
- 1 loaf of bread: $2.25
Taxes and Fees
Converse residents benefit from Texas’ lack of state income tax. However, property taxes and sales taxes still apply. The property tax rate in Converse is around 2.5%, which translates to $5,000 annually for a $200,000 home. The local sales tax rate is 8.25%, combining the state rate of 6.25% and the Converse city rate of 2%.
For vehicle owners, annual registration fees and inspections are also a factor. Expect to pay around $75 for registration and $25-40 for inspections, depending on the vehicle.
Monthly Budget Snapshot
| Expense Category | Single Person | Couple | Family of 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing (rent/mortgage) | $1,000-1,500 | $1,400-2,000 | $1,600-2,500 |
| Utilities | $150-200 | $200-300 | $300-400 |
| Groceries | $300-400 | $500-700 | $800-1,000 |
| Transportation | $200-300 | $300-500 | $400-600 |
| Misc/Entertainment | $200-400 | $400-600 | $600-800 |
| Total Monthly Budget (pre-tax) | $1,850-2,800 | $2,800-4,100 | $3,700-5,300 |
Keep in mind these are rough estimates and actual budgets can vary significantly based on lifestyle and personal circumstances. It’s always wise to have a cushion for unexpected expenses and savings goals.
Lifestyle Considerations
When evaluating the cost of living in Converse, it’s important to consider lifestyle factors as well. Converse offers a suburban feel with easy access to San Antonio’s amenities and job market. Commute times into the city average 20-30 minutes, which can mean higher transportation costs but more affordable housing compared to central San Antonio.
Converse also boasts a strong public school system, ample parks and green spaces, and a tight-knit community feel. For families prioritizing space and a yard, the tradeoff of a slightly longer commute may be worth the lower housing costs and strong schools.
Ultimately, the decision to live in Converse depends on your unique budget, preferences, and lifestyle goals. Working with a reputable moving company can help make the transition smoother and less stressful.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What salary do you need to live comfortably in Converse?
A: To live comfortably in Converse, a single person would need a gross monthly income of at least $2,800 (or $33,600 annually). For a family of four, a comfortable budget would start around $5,300 per month ($63,600 annually).
Q: Is Converse cheaper than living in San Antonio?
A: Yes, housing costs in Converse are generally 10-20% lower than in central San Antonio. However, transportation costs may be slightly higher due to longer commute times.
Q: Are utilities expensive in Converse?
A: Utility costs in Converse are fairly typical for the region. Expect to pay $150-400 per month depending on the size of your home and seasonal factors like summer cooling.
Q: What are property taxes like in Converse?
A: The property tax rate in Converse is around 2.5%. For a $250,000 home, that translates to roughly $6,250 in annual property taxes.
Q: How much should I budget for groceries in Converse?
A: Plan to budget $300-400 per month for groceries for a single person, $500-700 for a couple, and $800-1,000 for a family of four. This assumes a mix of cooking at home and dining out.
Q: What’s the sales tax rate in Converse?
A: The total sales tax rate in Converse is 8.25%, which includes the Texas state rate of 6.25% and the Converse city rate of 2%.
Q: Is Converse a good place to raise a family?
A: Converse can be an excellent place for families, offering strong public schools, ample green space, and a close-knit community feel. The lower housing costs compared to central San Antonio are also appealing for growing families.