While most Americans know the story of the Alamo, relatively few realize it is located in the heart of San Antonio, Texas. Not only is San Antonio a bustling metropolitan area, but it’s also the second-most populous city in Texas and seventh largest in the United States. It is also among the top ten fastest-growing urban areas in the country.

A City of History and Variety

With a proud, long heritage as one of the oldest settlements in Texas, today’s San Antonio started as a Spanish mission in 1716. In fact, the Alamo was the foundation of the settlement, with the city serving as the capital of Spain’s Tejas province.

The constant good weather has long attracted residents from all over. That weather was a major factor in choosing the city as home for numerous bases during World War II. In fact, the nickname Military City, USA is often used because of the large concentration of military establishments in the area.

Even before hosting the World’s Fair in 1968, tourism was a major contributor to the economy. Today, there are millions of visitors each year who enjoy the famous River Walk and its daily ferry rides along the winding waterway. The many additional attractions include a number of theme parks, several large specialty shopping areas, the nearby Hill Country, and, of course, the Alamo. 

The site of the famous battle is actually only part of the extensive San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, the only UNESCO-designated World Heritage site in Texas.

Committed to an Enjoyable Quality of Life

You simply can’t talk about San Antonio without mentioning the annual Fiesta. This city-wide celebration is internationally known as one of our nation’s great cultural events. Celebrating the area’s multicultural heritage, the Fiesta grows larger each spring as it provides parades, events, formal dinners, and a host of exciting activities.

The other undeniably unique aspect of visiting and living in San Antonio is the food scene. The River Walk hosts dozens of fine restaurants, offering everything from fine steaks to the best in Spanish delicacies. Whether you want a traditional visitor’s experience at Casa Rio on the River Walk or a fine steak at Bohanan’s, you’ll find dozens of great options regardless of your price range and dining preference. The wide range of culinary choices and dining options reflects this city’s dedication to making dining an important part of everyday living.

Many claim that the popular Tex-Mex style of cuisine originated here. Certainly, anyone who samples the offerings will argue that it has been perfected by the chefs in San Antonio.

Living and Working in San Antonio

As might be expected, such a bustling metropolitan area offers a number of quality employment and career opportunities. Known for its broad and qualified workforce, San Antonio attracts a number of companies and professionals. Aside from a large military-related base of employment, there is also a major focus on health care, financial services, energy, and tourism.

Even though San Antonio continues to grow at a rapid pace, its leaders have been quite adept at protecting the small-town feel that is so rare in large cities. From careful protection of the Downtown neighborhood to planned developments in the suburbs like Castle Hills, you can find a neighborhood that celebrates the lifestyle you prefer.

The oldest, most settled area of the city is Alamo Heights and you can find great shopping and unique boutiques throughout these tree-lined streets. Spacious single-family homes are the norm here, but there are a few condominium options scattered through the neighborhood.

In addition to the redeveloped and eclectic King William neighborhood, there are great options for more space the in Arrowhead and Helotes communities.

San Antonio may be a well-kept secret to some, but it is the beloved home to many generations of Texans and is very welcoming to newcomers.