Welcome to New Braunfels, TX
Nestled between Austin and San Antonio, New Braunfels offers the perfect blend of small-town charm and big-city convenience. This historic German settlement has transformed into one of Texas’s most desirable destinations, where crystal-clear rivers meet vibrant culture, and where families find both adventure and tranquility. With its famous water parks, authentic German heritage, and booming economy, New Braunfels attracts newcomers seeking an exceptional quality of life in the heart of Texas Hill Country.
📍 New Braunfels, TX at a Glance
- Population: 104,707 (2023 estimate)
- Location: 32 miles northeast of San Antonio, 48 miles southwest of Austin
- Incorporated: 1846
- Known For: Schlitterbahn Waterpark, German heritage festivals, and the Comal and Guadalupe Rivers
🔗 Dive Deeper into New Braunfels
💸 Cost & Budget
🏘️ Housing & Lifestyle
🚍 Utilities & Transportation
🏙️ City Comparisons
🎯 Special Content
🔍 In-Depth Relocation Overview
🗳️ Politics & Civic Life
New Braunfels maintains a balanced political climate with active civic engagement. The city council operates under a council-manager form of government, with residents participating in various boards and commissions. Local politics tend to lean conservative, though the growing population brings diverse perspectives. Community involvement is strong, with numerous volunteer opportunities and civic organizations.
🚓 Crime & Safety
New Braunfels enjoys relatively low crime rates compared to state and national averages. The city’s violent crime rate is 2.3 per 1,000 residents, well below the Texas average. Property crime rates are also lower than comparable cities. The New Braunfels Police Department maintains strong community relations through neighborhood watch programs and regular community engagement initiatives.
🍽️ Dining & Entertainment
The dining scene reflects New Braunfels’ German roots while embracing Texas flavors. Krause’s Biergarten serves authentic German cuisine in a historic setting, while The Gristmill River Restaurant offers Texas fare with scenic river views. Huisache Grill provides upscale dining, and Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que delivers classic Texas barbecue. Entertainment options include the historic Brauntex Theatre, numerous live music venues, and seasonal festivals like Wurstfest.
🏛️ Local Government
The City of New Braunfels operates efficiently with a professional city manager overseeing daily operations. City services receive high marks from residents, including utilities, parks maintenance, and emergency services. The city maintains a AAA bond rating and has won numerous awards for financial management and transparency.
🚍 Transportation
While New Braunfels lacks extensive public transit, its strategic location along I-35 provides easy access to Austin and San Antonio. Most residents rely on personal vehicles. The city is investing in infrastructure improvements, including road expansions and traffic management systems. San Antonio International Airport is 30 minutes away, while Austin-Bergstrom is within 45 minutes.
🏘️ Housing & Real Estate
The housing market remains competitive with median home prices around $385,000. Popular neighborhoods include Gruene Historic District, River Chase, and Vintage Oaks. The city offers diverse housing options from historic homes to modern master-planned communities. Property taxes average 2.3%, with no state income tax offsetting some housing costs.
🌳 Parks & Outdoor Life
Outdoor recreation defines New Braunfels’ lifestyle. Landa Park spans 51 acres along the Comal River, offering swimming, tubing, and picnicking. Prince Solms Park provides river access for tubing enthusiasts. The city maintains over 40 parks and numerous trails. Natural Bridge Caverns and Canyon Lake offer additional outdoor adventures within minutes of downtown.
💼 Job Market
The economy thrives with a median household income of $78,465. Major employers include Schlitterbahn Waterpark, Continental Automotive Systems, CGI Federal, and Rush Enterprises. The unemployment rate typically runs below state averages. Many residents commute to Austin or San Antonio for work, while others enjoy the growing local job market in healthcare, manufacturing, and hospitality.
🧑🏫 Education
New Braunfels Independent School District serves most students with highly-rated schools. The district includes 14 elementary schools, 5 middle schools, and 3 high schools. Comal ISD also serves portions of the city. Private options include St. Paul Lutheran School and New Braunfels Christian Academy. Higher education is accessible through nearby Texas State University in San Marcos and multiple San Antonio institutions.
🌞 Climate & Weather
New Braunfels enjoys a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. Average summer highs reach the mid-90s, while winter temperatures rarely drop below freezing. The area receives about 35 inches of rain annually, with May and October being the wettest months. Spring and fall offer ideal weather for outdoor activities, contributing to the city’s year-round appeal.
💬 Community Sentiment
Residents consistently praise New Braunfels’ family-friendly atmosphere, outdoor recreation opportunities, and strong sense of community. Newcomers appreciate the welcoming nature of locals and the city’s efforts to preserve its heritage while managing growth. Common concerns include increasing traffic and rising housing costs, though most residents feel the quality of life justifies these challenges.
✨ Why People Are Moving to New Braunfels
New Braunfels continues to attract new residents seeking the perfect balance of recreation, culture, and economic opportunity. The combination of world-class water attractions, authentic German heritage, excellent schools, and proximity to major Texas cities creates an irresistible package for families and professionals alike. As the city thoughtfully manages its growth while preserving its unique character, New Braunfels stands out as a premier destination for those ready to embrace the best of Texas Hill Country living.