Omaha vs San Antonio: cost of living compared
San Antonio is 4% more expensive than Omaha overall. San Antonio (TX) has no state income tax; NE tops out around 5.84%.
Indexes use a US average of 100: below 100 is cheaper than the national average. Housing and transportation are derived from median home prices, rents and commute times; figures come from BLS, Census ACS, Numbeo and the MIT Living Wage Calculator.
The big picture
Comparing Omaha and San Antonio reveals that Omaha generally offers a more affordable cost of living. While the overall difference is not immense, Omaha's lower housing expenses contribute significantly to its more budget-friendly profile. Other categories like transportation and utilities also show Omaha as noticeably less expensive, helping to offset areas where costs might be more comparable. This suggests a move to Omaha could lead to greater savings on essential expenditures.
Housing
Housing costs present a clear distinction, with Omaha being more affordable for both buying and renting. Median home prices are lower in Omaha, and typical one-bedroom rents also show a noticeable difference. While both metros offer a mix of housing types, Omaha's housing market is generally less expensive, impacting monthly mortgage or rent payments. Property taxes and insurance costs, which vary by location, would also factor into the total cost of homeownership in either city.
Taxes and everyday costs
Daily expenses vary between these two cities. Omaha benefits from noticeably lower transportation costs, and utilities are also more budget-friendly there. Food costs are roughly similar in both metros, while healthcare expenses are slightly lower in Omaha. A significant difference is state income tax; Nebraska has one, while Texas does not. This can impact take-home pay, potentially offsetting some of Omaha's other cost advantages for higher earners.
Lifestyle trade-offs
Beyond costs, lifestyle differences are notable. Omaha experiences four distinct seasons, including cold winters, while San Antonio has a warmer, more humid climate year-round. Getting around in Omaha often involves driving, with a shorter average commute. San Antonio's commutes are typically longer, and its urban layout is more expansive. Both cities offer diverse amenities, but their general pace and character reflect their different regional settings and population densities.
Bottom line
For those considering a move, Omaha generally offers a more economical daily existence, primarily driven by lower housing, transportation, and utility costs. However, the absence of a state income tax in Texas could be a substantial financial benefit for some households, potentially narrowing the overall cost gap. A thorough budget comparison, factoring in individual spending habits and income, is essential to determine which metro aligns best with personal financial goals.
| Measure | Omaha, NE | San Antonio, TX |
|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living (US avg = 100) | 85 | 88 |
| Housing index | 67 | 71 |
| Transportation index | 80 | 95 |
| Food index | 88 | 88 |
| Healthcare index | 90 | 92 |
| Utilities index | 92 | 102 |
| Misc index | 82 | 85 |
| Median home price | $238,000 | $248,000 |
| Median 1-bedroom rent | $1,000/mo | $1,100/mo |
| Average commute | 22 min | 27 min |
Compare any two metros with the free cost of living tool, or see the true monthly cost of a specific San Antonio home with the True Cost Calculator.