San Angelo sits in West Texas, about 225 miles west of Austin. The city had about 99,893 residents at the 2020 census. People move here for lower housing costs, steady jobs, and a small-city pace. Costs run a little below the national average, though a few bills run higher. Sources use different methods, so check current numbers before you decide.
Housing is the biggest piece of the budget, and prices here sit well below the state and national levels. Zillow lists a typical home value near $212,773 as of August 2026, down about 3.7 percent over the past year. More Details about San Angelo and its economy are on its Wikipedia page. Rent, utilities, and taxes also shape the total.
Overall Cost of Living
One cost calculator puts San Angelo about 2 percent below the national average and about 4 percent above the Texas average. It lists housing about 3 percent below the national level and grocery prices about 5 percent lower. Utilities run about 8 percent higher. Health care runs about 1 percent lower. Another index scores the city 97.2, where 100 is the national average.
Home Prices
Zillow compares San Angelo’s typical value of $212,773 with $230,038 for Tom Green County, $299,367 for Texas, and $368,697 for the nation. The median sale price was about $240,167, and the median list price was about $263,317. Homes went to pending in about 42 days. Redfin data for December 2025 showed a median sale price near $280,000. Prices vary by neighborhood, so ask a local agent for current figures.
Renting
Zillow lists an average asking rent of about $1,304. Redfin data showed a median rent of about $1,406. Rent for a three-bedroom house can run higher, with some listing sites showing averages above $2,000. Check current listings, since rent changes quickly.
Income
Median household income comes in at about $65,864 in one estimate and about $72,756 in another. Redfin data said a household needed about $56,236 to rent a typical apartment, and buying a typical home took about 37 percent more income. That gap is smaller than the national gap of 46 percent.
Utilities
Utilities cost more than the national average. One source lists a typical energy bill near $237 to $245 a month. Summer cooling drives the highest bills, since temperatures reach 100 degrees about 30 days a year. In 2011, the city recorded 100 days at 100 degrees or higher.
Taxes
Texas does not charge a state income tax on wages. Property taxes can be a larger part of the budget for homeowners, so ask for the tax bill on any home you consider. Sales tax applies to most purchases.
Jobs and Economy
Goodfellow Air Force Base is the largest employer, and it provides jobs or income for more than 24,000 people. Shannon Medical Center employs more than 3,000. Angelo State University, call centers, manufacturing, oil and gas services, and agriculture also support the local economy. Check current job openings before you move.
Getting Around
Most people drive. The Concho Valley Transit District runs five fixed bus routes from 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., Monday through Saturday. San Angelo Regional Airport offers daily flights to Dallas Fort Worth.
Weather and Home Costs
San Angelo has a semiarid climate with about 21 inches of rain a year. About 60 days a year fall below freezing. Drought can stress lawns and trees. Water use and yard care add to the bills, so plan for a water-wise yard.
Trees and Yard Costs
Large pecans and other shade trees add value, but dead limbs and storm damage can cost money. Have a certified arborist check big trees near your house before you buy.
Ways to Save
- Compare homes in several ZIP codes.
- Ask about property tax bills before you buy.
- Shop insurance quotes.
- Plan for summer cooling costs.
- Use free parks and the River Walk.
- Choose a water-wise yard.
A Simple Budget Check
Add up rent or mortgage, taxes, utilities, car costs, food, and savings. Compare the total with your income. If housing takes more than about a third of your pay, look for ways to lower it.
Final Thoughts
San Angelo offers lower housing costs and a steady job base. Utilities and summer heat can take a bite, so plan ahead. Visit first, and check current numbers.
