Seguin, TX vs. San Marcos, TX: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Which city gives you more for your money – Seguin or San Marcos? This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison to help families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life expenses of living in Seguin vs San Marcos in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how typical rent and home prices compare:
| Housing Type | Seguin | San Marcos |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment (Monthly Rent) | $1,250 | $1,450 |
| 3BR House (Median Price) | $280,000 | $325,000 |
🏆 Winner: Seguin. Housing costs an estimated 14-16% less in Seguin compared to San Marcos.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility bills are a major monthly expense. In Seguin, expect to pay around $180/month for electricity, water, and gas for a 2BR apartment. San Marcos utility costs average closer to $210/month.
Both cities see 20-30% higher A/C bills in the summer compared to winter. Look for off-peak and energy saver programs to trim costs.
🏆 Winner: Seguin. Utility bills run about 15% lower than in San Marcos.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery costs are fairly similar between Seguin and San Marcos. Budget around $350-$400/month per adult for food and daily goods in either city.
Restaurant prices are also comparable, with fast food meals around $8-10 and sit-down dinners $15-25/person on average.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Grocery and daily living costs are nearly identical.
4. Taxes and Fees
Texas has no state income tax, but watch out for higher property taxes. Seguin’s property tax rate is 2.37% vs 2.54% in San Marcos.
In Seguin, HOA fees often include landscaping and trash, ranging from $150-300/month. San Marcos HOAs are pricier at $200-400/month.
🏆 Winner: Seguin. Lower property taxes and HOA fees give Seguin the edge.
5. Cost Summary Table
| Monthly Expense | Seguin | San Marcos |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (3BR mortgage*) | $1,680 | $1,950 |
| Utilities | $180 | $210 |
| Groceries | $400 | $400 |
| Transportation | $300 | $275 |
| Taxes & Fees | $550 | $625 |
| Misc Expenses | $400 | $400 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $3,510 in Seguin | $3,860 in San Marcos |
*Based on median home price with 20% down and 5% interest rate.
6. Lifestyle Fit
Seguin offers more affordable living overall, but consider other tradeoffs too:
- Seguin has lower population density and more green space
- San Marcos has more public transportation options and a vibrant downtown
- Both cities see hot summers, but San Marcos is a few degrees cooler on average
7. FAQs
Q: Is Seguin more affordable than San Marcos?
A: Yes, Seguin has lower housing, utility, and tax costs, making it 10-15% cheaper overall.
Q: Which city has lower rent?
A: Seguin rent prices are around 14% lower than San Marcos.
Q: Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
A: Seguin’s median home price is about 16% less than San Marcos in 2025.
8. Conclusion
While both Seguin and San Marcos offer a high quality of life, Seguin comes out ahead on affordability. Housing costs alone are 14-16% lower, and Seguin has cheaper utilities and property taxes as well.
Budget-conscious families, retirees, and young professionals may find their money goes further in Seguin. But those prioritizing walkability and public transit may prefer San Marcos despite the higher cost of living.
Ultimately, both cities give you access to the strong job market and attractions of the Austin-San Antonio corridor. Compare sample monthly budgets for Seguin or read an overview of Seguin living costs in 2025. Planning a move? See our 2025 moving company picks.