San Marcos, TX vs. New Braunfels, TX: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Deciding between San Marcos and New Braunfels, Texas? Housing costs alone are $325 cheaper per month on average in San Marcos. This cost of living comparison will help families relocating, professionals evaluating job offers, or anyone weighing the real-life expenses of San Marcos vs. New Braunfels in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
When it comes to housing, San Marcos offers lower prices across the board:
| Housing Type | San Marcos | New Braunfels |
|---|---|---|
| Median 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,250 | $1,475 |
| Median 3BR Home Price | $325,000 | $375,000 |
🏆 Winner: San Marcos
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility bills in San Marcos and New Braunfels are fairly comparable. In both cities, expect to pay around:
- $150/month for electricity
- $75/month for water and sewer
- $50/month for natural gas (if applicable)
Summer A/C bills tend to be higher in New Braunfels due to hotter temperatures. Both cities offer off-peak savings plans to help manage costs.
🏆 Winner: San Marcos
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery prices are similar between San Marcos and New Braunfels. Budget around $350-$450 per month for a typical family. Restaurant prices are about 5% lower in San Marcos.
🏆 Winner: San Marcos
4. Taxes and Fees
Property taxes are slightly lower in San Marcos at 2.25% vs. 2.39% in New Braunfels. HOA fees in both cities typically range from $150-$350/month and often include amenities like landscaping, pools, and trash service.
🏆 Winner: San Marcos
5. Cost Summary
| Category | San Marcos | New Braunfels |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $1,250 | $1,475 |
| Utilities | $275 | $300 |
| Groceries | $400 | $400 |
| Transportation | $250 | $275 |
| Taxes & Fees | $225 | $250 |
| Misc | $300 | $300 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $2,700 | $3,000 |
6. Lifestyle Fit
While San Marcos is more affordable, New Braunfels offers perks like a quaint downtown, the Comal and Guadalupe Rivers, and Schlitterbahn water park. San Marcos has a younger vibe with more green space and walkability near the Texas State University campus.
7. FAQ
- Is San Marcos more affordable than New Braunfels? Yes, the cost of living is about 10% lower in San Marcos on average.
- Which city has lower rent? Rents are around $225/month cheaper in San Marcos for a typical 2BR apartment.
- Where is it cheaper to buy a home? Home prices are roughly $50,000 lower in San Marcos for a comparable 3BR house.
8. The Bottom Line
Overall, San Marcos comes out ahead in this cost of living comparison. A household moving from New Braunfels to San Marcos could save $300 or more per month on living expenses. However, the lifestyle and local flavor of New Braunfels may be worth a small premium for some.
Budgeting for a move to San Marcos? Check out our Monthly Budget Examples for San Marcos Residents. For a deeper dive, see our full Cost of Living in San Marcos (2025 Guide).
Note: All income and cost figures are expressed as gross monthly amounts (pre-tax). Actual take-home pay and expenses may vary.