Your Complete Guide
Relocating to New Braunfels
Everything you need to know about moving to the Texas Hill Country
Short answer
New Braunfels offers Hill Country living between San Antonio and Austin — strong schools, no state income tax, river recreation, and a median listing price near $380K (September 2026). It's a fit for families, remote workers, and military households PCSing to JBSA. Download Cody's free relocation guide for neighborhoods, taxes, and timelines.
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Get the free New Braunfels & Hill Country Relocation Guide as a printable PDF — all the numbers, neighborhoods, and checklists in one place.
Why New Braunfels?
Nestled between San Antonio and Austin along the I-35 corridor, New Braunfels offers the perfect blend of small-town charm and big-city access. With a rich German heritage, spring-fed rivers, top-rated schools, and a booming local economy, it's no wonder thousands of families choose to call this area home every year. Whether you're relocating for work, retirement, or a better quality of life, this guide will help you make an informed move.
Cost of Living
- Texas has no state income tax, which means more of your paycheck stays with you.
- Property taxes: your total rate depends on your exact taxing districts (county, city, school district, and any special districts). For tax year 2025, Comal County’s county-only rate was $0.305015 per $100 of valuation — just one slice of the total bill. Always verify the adopted rates for a specific address.
- Overall cost of living in New Braunfels is below the national average, with affordable groceries, utilities, and transportation.
- Housing costs are well below Austin prices, making the NB area attractive for families and remote workers priced out of larger metros.
Schools & Education
- Comal Independent School District (ISD) is highly rated and serves most of the New Braunfels area with multiple A-rated campuses.
- New Braunfels ISD also serves parts of the city and is well-regarded for its community involvement.
- Private and charter school options are available, including several faith-based schools.
- Higher education is accessible via Texas State University (San Marcos, 20 min), UTSA, and multiple community colleges nearby.
Employment & Economy
- Major employers include Comal ISD, Resolute Health Hospital, HEB, and the City of New Braunfels.
- The I-35 corridor between SA and Austin is a rapidly growing economic hub with tech, healthcare, and military jobs.
- Joint Base San Antonio (JBSA) — including Fort Sam Houston, Lackland, and Randolph — is one of the largest military installations in the U.S.
- Remote workers increasingly choose New Braunfels for its lower cost of living while earning Austin or SA salaries.
Outdoor Recreation & Lifestyle
- The Comal River (shortest navigable river in the U.S.) and Guadalupe River offer world-class tubing, kayaking, and swimming.
- Canyon Lake, just 20 minutes north, provides boating, fishing, and lakeside living.
- Landa Park is a 51-acre gem in the heart of the city with spring-fed pools, trails, a miniature train, and golf.
- The Hill Country is home to dozens of wineries, breweries, dance halls, and scenic drives — including Gruene Historic District, one of the most visited small towns in Texas.
Neighborhoods & Communities
- Vintage Oaks — Master-planned Hill Country community with resort amenities, 1-3 acre lots, and stunning views.
- Gruene — Historic area near the Guadalupe River, walkable to Gruene Hall and local shops.
- River Chase & Westpointe — Family-friendly subdivisions with pools, parks, and newer construction.
- Downtown New Braunfels — Charming historic homes, walkable to restaurants and the Comal River.
- Rural acreage is available throughout the Hill Country for those wanting space and privacy.
Climate & Weather
- Central Texas enjoys over 220 sunny days per year — mild winters with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing.
- Summers are hot (June–September highs in the mid-to-upper 90s°F), but the rivers and spring-fed pools provide natural cooling.
- Fall and spring are beautiful seasons with comfortable temperatures in the 60s-80s — ideal for outdoor activities.
- Flash flooding can occur in the Hill Country, particularly along rivers and low-water crossings. Flood zone awareness is important when buying.
Healthcare
- Resolute Health Hospital is a full-service facility right in New Braunfels.
- The San Antonio Medical Center — one of the largest in the country — is about 30 minutes away with world-class specialists.
- Multiple urgent care clinics, dental offices, and specialty practices serve the growing community.
- VA healthcare for veterans is available through the South Texas Veterans Health Care System in San Antonio.
Military & Veteran Community
- New Braunfels has a thriving veteran community, supported by VFW Post 7110, American Legion, and veteran-focused nonprofits.
- Proximity to JBSA makes it popular with active-duty families and military retirees.
- Texas offers significant property tax exemptions for disabled veterans — up to 100% exemption for 100% disability.
- VA home loans are widely accepted throughout the area, and many agents (including Cody Posey) specialize in military relocations — see the PCS to JBSA military relocation guide for BAH rates, commute times, and the VA loan process.
Moving Checklist
Your timeline for a smooth relocation to New Braunfels
Frequently Asked Questions About Relocating to New Braunfels
Is New Braunfels a good place to raise a family?
New Braunfels is consistently rated as one of the best places to raise a family in Texas. The area offers strong school districts in both Comal ISD and New Braunfels ISD, safe neighborhoods with community amenities, and an abundance of outdoor recreation including rivers, parks, and trails. The small-town feel combined with proximity to San Antonio and Austin gives families the best of both worlds.
What is the job market like in New Braunfels?
Major local employers include Comal ISD, Resolute Health Hospital, HEB, and the City of New Braunfels. However, many residents commute to San Antonio or Austin for work, particularly in healthcare, military, tech, and government sectors. Remote work has become increasingly popular, with many families choosing New Braunfels for its lower cost of living while earning higher metro salaries.
How do I start the relocation process?
The first step is getting pre-approved for a mortgage so you know your budget. Then connect with a local agent — like me — who can help you understand the different areas, school districts, and neighborhoods. I specialize in helping families relocate to the Hill Country, including military PCS moves, and I can guide you through the entire process from initial research to closing day.
Ready to Make the Move?
As a retired Army First Sergeant and New Braunfels local, Cody Posey understands what it takes to relocate. Whether you're PCSing to JBSA, moving for work, or choosing the Hill Country for retirement, Cody will help you find the perfect home.
Watch: The REAL Cost of Moving Here
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