Selma, TX vs. San Marcos, TX: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
A common myth is that San Marcos is more affordable than Selma for cost of living. However, a closer analysis reveals some surprising differences. This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison between Selma and San Marcos. It is perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of living in Selma vs San Marcos in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living differences. Here’s how Selma and San Marcos compare for typical housing options:
| Housing Type | Selma | San Marcos |
|---|---|---|
| Median 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,250 | $1,400 |
| Median 3BR Home Price | $325,000 | $360,000 |
🏆 Winner: Selma. Housing costs, both for renting and buying, tend to be more affordable in Selma compared to San Marcos.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs can vary based on home size and energy usage. For a typical household, here are the estimated monthly utility costs:
- Selma: $180-$220/month
- San Marcos: $200-$250/month
Both cities experience hot summers, so expect higher electricity bills from June to September. Selma offers some rebate programs for energy-efficient upgrades.
🏆 Winner: Selma. While utility costs are similar, Selma comes out slightly ahead, especially with energy efficiency incentives.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
For groceries and everyday goods, prices are fairly comparable between Selma and San Marcos. A gallon of milk averages about $3.50 in both cities, with other staples similarly priced. Eating out is about 5% cheaper in Selma.
🏆 Winner: Selma, but only slightly. Grocery costs are nearly equal, with Selma having a minor edge for restaurant prices.
4. Taxes and Fees
Texas has no state income tax, but property taxes and city fees can add up. Selma’s property tax rate is around 2.1%, while San Marcos is higher at 2.4%. For a $350,000 home, that’s a difference of about $1,000 per year.
Both cities have similar fee structures for city services and utilities. HOA fees in Selma tend to include more amenities compared to San Marcos.
🏆 Winner: Selma. The lower property tax rate in Selma can lead to substantial yearly savings for homeowners.
5. Cost Summary
| Category | Selma | San Marcos |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (3BR Home)* | $1,900 | $2,100 |
| Utilities | $200 | $225 |
| Groceries | $400 | $400 |
| Transportation | $300 | $250 |
| Taxes (Property) | $570 | $700 |
| Miscellaneous | $500 | $550 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $3,870 | $4,225 |
*Based on median 3BR home price with 20% down, 30-year fixed mortgage at 4% interest. All figures are estimates based on typical costs and shown as gross monthly amounts (pre-tax).
6. Lifestyle Fit
Selma offers a slightly lower cost of living, but San Marcos has its own advantages. San Marcos is closer to Austin and has more public transportation options, while Selma provides a quieter suburban feel with easy access to San Antonio.
San Marcos averages about 2°F cooler than Selma during the peak of summer. Both are great options for outdoor recreation, with Selma’s Retama Park and San Marcos’ riverfront spaces.
7. FAQ
- Is Selma more affordable than San Marcos?
Yes, Selma has a lower overall cost of living, mainly due to cheaper housing and lower property taxes. - Which city has lower rent?
On average, rent prices are about 10% lower in Selma compared to similar properties in San Marcos. - Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
Median home prices in Selma are roughly 10% lower than in San Marcos, and Selma’s lower property tax rate also helps make homeownership more affordable.
8. Conclusion
While both Selma and San Marcos offer a high quality of life, Selma comes out ahead in terms of overall affordability. A household moving from San Marcos to Selma might save $400 per month or more on housing and other costs.
However, the best fit depends on your lifestyle priorities. Young professionals may prefer San Marcos for its proximity to Austin’s job market and entertainment, while families looking for more space and a suburban community may find Selma ideal.
Budgeting is key in either city. For a more personalized look at your costs, check out these sample monthly budgets for Selma in 2025 or learn more about the cost of living in Selma. If you’re planning a move, be sure to compare moving company costs and options to get the best deal.