The Housing Market in Selma Today
Selma, TX is a growing suburban community northeast of San Antonio. Its proximity to major highways and employers like Randolph Air Force Base has fueled steady housing demand in recent years. Compared to the San Antonio metro area, Selma offers a small-town feel with convenient access to big-city amenities.
As of 2025, Selma’s housing market is characterized by a mix of established neighborhoods and new developments catering to families and professionals. While home prices have risen in line with the region, Selma remains relatively affordable compared to central San Antonio. Rental options are more limited, with single-family homes making up the bulk of the market.
For those considering a move to Selma, it’s important to understand the full cost of housing beyond monthly rent or mortgage payments. Property taxes, insurance, HOA fees, and maintenance costs can add significantly to the long-term expense of owning a home. Renters should also budget for utilities and renter’s insurance on top of monthly rent. This guide breaks down the key housing costs to consider in Selma.
Renting in Selma: Typical Costs and Trends
As of 2025, the median rent for a 2-bedroom apartment in Selma is around $1,400 per month. Renters can expect to pay between $1,100 for a basic 1-bedroom unit up to $1,800+ for a newer 2-bedroom in amenity-rich complexes. Single-family home rentals, which make up a larger share of Selma’s market, typically range from $1,600 for an older 3-bedroom up to $2,500+ for larger new-construction homes.
Rental costs in Selma vary based on proximity to major roads like I-35 and Loop 1604. Neighborhoods closer to these thoroughfares and nearby retail tend to command higher rents. Older homes and apartments in the city center may offer lower prices but less square footage.
Most renters in Selma are families and professionals working in northeast San Antonio or at Randolph AFB. Students attending nearby Northeast Lakeview College may also seek affordable rentals in the area. While public transit is limited, Selma offers easy driving access to major employers via I-35, Loop 1604, and I-10.
Owning a Home in Selma: Prices, Taxes, and HOA Fees
The median home price in Selma stood at $325,000 as of 2025. However, actual costs can vary widely based on neighborhood, age of home, and square footage. Newer 3-bedroom homes in master-planned communities often sell for $400,000+, while older homes closer to the city center may be found in the $250,000-$350,000 range.
Property taxes are a significant cost for Selma homeowners. The total property tax rate in Selma is around 2.5%, which includes city, county, and school district taxes. For a home valued at $325,000, this equates to an annual tax bill of $8,125. Texas does offer homestead exemptions that can lower the taxable value for primary residences.
Many newer neighborhoods in Selma have Homeowners Associations (HOAs) that charge monthly or annual fees. HOA dues in Selma typically range from $200-$500 per year, though some higher-end communities may charge more. These fees generally cover maintenance of common areas, amenities like pools or playgrounds, and sometimes services like trash collection. While HOAs are common in Selma’s newer developments, many established neighborhoods do not have them.
Apartment vs House in Selma: Side-by-Side Costs
| Monthly Expense | Apartment (2BR) | House (3BR) |
|---|---|---|
| Rent/Mortgage Payment | $1,400 | $1,900 (median price of $325K) |
| Property Tax | N/A (included in rent) | $677 (2.5% tax rate) |
| Utilities | $150 (electricity, water, trash) | $250 (electricity, gas, water, trash) |
| Insurance | $15 (renter’s insurance) | $150 (homeowner’s insurance) |
| HOA Fees | N/A | $40 (typical in newer neighborhoods) |
| Maintenance & Repairs | $0 (typically covered by landlord) | $200 (1% of home value per year) |
| Monthly Total | $1,565 | $3,217 |
Utility & Upkeep Differences
In addition to the base rent or mortgage cost, utilities and maintenance fees are key factors to consider when comparing housing options in Selma. Apartments typically have lower utility costs, as they are generally smaller and more energy-efficient than single-family homes. Renters also avoid costs like yard care and routine maintenance that fall to homeowners.
Selma’s hot, humid summers mean air conditioning is a must, which can drive up electricity bills in the warmer months. Older, less-insulated homes may have even higher cooling costs. Homes with yards will also incur water costs for irrigation, while this is usually covered in apartment landscaping fees.
Homeowners should budget at least 1% of their home’s value annually for routine repairs and upkeep. This means saving around $3,250 per year, or $270 per month, for a median-priced home in Selma. Big-ticket items like a new roof or HVAC system can easily cost $5,000-$10,000+, so having a dedicated maintenance fund is crucial.
5-Year Rent vs Buy Outlook
Using the sample monthly costs outlined above, a renter in Selma would pay around $93,900 over five years for a 2-bedroom apartment. That includes rent, utilities, and renter’s insurance.
For a homebuyer, the five-year cost of a median-priced $325,000 home would be approximately $193,000. That factors in mortgage payments, property taxes, insurance, HOA fees, utilities, and conservatively estimated maintenance costs. This scenario assumes a 30-year mortgage with 20% down at a 4% interest rate.
Of course, these are simplified estimates that don’t account for home price appreciation, tax deductions for homeowners, or rent increases. Generally, buying becomes more financially advantageous the longer you plan to stay in the home. According to most experts, homeownership is typically recommended if you plan to stay put for at least 5-7 years.
Use this Sample Monthly Budget for Selma in 2025 to get a clearer picture of typical expenses in the area. You can also reference our comprehensive Cost of Living in Selma guide for a full expense breakdown.
FAQs About Housing Costs in Selma
- How much are HOA fees in Selma?
HOA fees in Selma typically range from $200-$500 per year, with some higher-end communities charging more. Not all neighborhoods have HOAs. - What is the property tax rate in Selma?
The total property tax rate in Selma is around 2.5%, which includes city, county, and school district taxes. - Is renting cheaper than buying long-term in Selma?
Renting is typically cheaper in the short term, but buying can be more cost-effective if you plan to stay in the home for 5+ years. Use our rent vs buy calculator to compare long-term costs. - Do houses have higher utility costs than apartments?
Yes, houses are typically larger and less energy-efficient than apartments, resulting in higher utility bills. Homes with yards also incur water costs for irrigation. - What’s the monthly cost difference between apartments and houses in Selma?
On average, renting a 2-bedroom apartment in Selma costs around $1,565 per month including utilities. Owning a median-priced 3-bedroom home has a total monthly cost of about $3,217 including mortgage, taxes, insurance, and maintenance.
Making Smart Housing Choices in Selma
When deciding whether to rent or buy a home in Selma, it’s important to look beyond the monthly payment and consider the full picture of housing costs. For renters, that means budgeting for utilities, renter’s insurance, and potential rent increases over time. Homeowners must factor in property taxes, insurance, HOA fees, maintenance costs, and the long-term commitment of a mortgage.
Ultimately, the decision depends on your unique financial situation, lifestyle preferences, and long-term plans. If you value flexibility and lower upfront costs, renting may be the better choice. If you plan to stay in Selma for the long haul and want to build equity, homeownership can be a smart financial move.
Before making a decision, be sure to explore all of your options and crunch the numbers using tools like our Cost of Living Calculator. And if a move is in your future, our Guide to the Best Moving Companies can help you find reliable movers to make the process easier.