Have you always dreamed of moving to a laidback city with beautiful parks and a unique local culture? Then you'll love living in New Braunfels. New Braunfels is a city in the San Antonio area that is known for its interesting attractions and German heritage.
Founded in 1845 by German Prince and military officer Prince Carl of Solms-Braunfels, the settlement of New Braunfels was part of a larger attempt to establish a permanent German colony in Texas, known as Mainzer Adelsverein. Logistical problems and financial issues eventually thwarted the attempt at creating a permanent colony of German immigrants.
However, New Braunfels thrived as a city, and by 1850, it was the fourth-largest city in Texas by population. Today, it's a popular San Antonio suburb with a small-town atmosphere and a rapidly growing population. New Braunfels is a good place to live for those in search of affordable living, natural beauty, and friendly neighbors.
For those considering a relocation to this one-of-a-kind community, here is everything you need to know before moving to New Braunfels, TX.
Where Is New Braunfels
New Braunfels is in Comal and Guadalupe counties. It's a river city positioned at the confluence of the Comal River and Guadalupe River, as well as the Balcones Fault, where the Texas Hill Country meets rolling prairie land.
It's a principal city in the Greater San Antonio metro area and the second largest by population after San Antonio itself. It's also the county seat of Comal County. Nearby cities and communities include San Marcos, Geronimo, McQueeny, Canyon Lake, Schertz, Marion, and Seguin.
It's also very centrally located near the following major cities:
New Braunfels Population & Demographics
The New Braunfels population is 90,403. Many new residents are attracted to the vibrant culture it offers, and it's one of the fastest-growing cities in the US. The New Braunfels, TX, population increased by 56% between 2010 and 2020. It has a spacious suburban atmosphere, and the population density is 2,000 residents per square mile.
New Braunfels is a young, diverse city with a family-friendly atmosphere. About 20% of residents living in New Braunfels are under 18, while 16% are in their 20's. Although the median age is 38.2 years old, which is 10% higher than the rest of Texas.
The racial and ethnic breakdown is 78.1% white (58.2% white, non-Hispanic), 37% Hispanic or Latino, 2.4% Black or African American, 1% Asian, and 14% two or more races.
Other New Braunfels Demographics
- The median household income is $79,336 per year, which is 10% higher than the rest of Texas
- 92.4% of residents have a high school diploma, while 42% have a bachelor's degree or higher
- 51% of residents living in New Braunfels are female, while 49% are male
- The foreign-born population is 7%
- 18.9% have moved since the previous year
New Braunfels is quite safe. Here is a breakdown of the New Braunfels crime rate vs. the national average and Texas crime rate.
- Total crime: 1,529 crimes per 100,000 residents, 43.2% lower than the state, 34.8% lower than the country
- Violent crime: 231 crimes per 100,000 residents, 48.3% lower than the state, 40.4% lower than the country
- Murder rate: 6 homicides per 100,000 residents: 9.1% lower than the state, 8.3% lower than the country
- Property crime: 1,298 crimes per 100,000 residents: 42.2% lower than the state, 33.7% lower than the country
The City of New Braunfels Police Department handles crime and public safety in the city with the support of 172 law enforcement personnel, which includes 137 sworn officers and 35 civilians.
Cost of Living in New Braunfels
Another benefit of moving to New Braunfels, TX is the affordable cost of living. A great way to assess how much it costs to live in a particular area is to check the cost of living index. It compares the prices of standard consumer goods to the rest of the US, with 100 representing the national average.
The COLI for the Greater San Antonio metro area is 91.5. That means the cost of living in New Braunfels is about 8.5% lower than the rest of the country. The Economic Policy Institute has a Family Budget Calculator, which indicates the average family of four (two parents with two kids) would need to earn about $92,055 to afford the cost of living in New Braunfels, TX.
Typical New Braunfels living expenses:
- 1 gallon of milk: $3.43
- 1 dozen regular eggs: $2.69
- 1 pound of chicken filets: $3.66
- 1 gallon of gasoline: $3.07
- 1 loaf of fresh bread: $2.78
- Average New Braunfels monthly utility bill: $196.29
*Source: Numbeo
New Braunfels real estate is also very reasonably priced. Redfin shows that the median home price is $337,990, which means housing costs are 29% lower than the national average. The median price per square foot of New Braunfels, TX, real estate is $183.
Tenants moving to New Braunfels, TX will also find a plethora of options. About 68% of homes are owner-occupied, while 32% are rented out. Rentcafe indicates that the average rent in New Braunfels is $1,457. The best apartments tend to be found in neighborhoods like Mission Hill, Canyon House, Alexan Gruen Crossing, Riverhaus Creekside, and The Landmark. Rent prices start around $1000 for a studio and go up to $5,000 for a three-bedroom.
New Braunfels Neighborhoods | Where to Live in New Braunfels
New Braunfels is full of wonderful neighborhoods offering low crime and gorgeous estates. However, with so many options, it can be hard to know where to look. To help make the decision easier, here are a few of the best places to live in New Braunfels.
River Chase | A Popular New Braunfels Neighborhood with a Private Park
River Chase is one of the city's premier neighborhoods. Centrally located between the Austin and San Antonio metro areas north of New Braunfels proper, it boasts a community clubhouse, a 58-acre park, upscale amenities, and homes ranging in price from $300,000 to one million.
Havenwood at Hunters Crossing is another one of the best places to live in New Braunfels, TX. The master-planned community boasts swimming complexes with multiple pools, hiking trails shrouded in oaks, and impressive estates on 1.25-acre lots.
John Newcombe Estate | A Luxury Tennis Ranch with Luxury Amenities
Situated in one of the most desirable parks of Texas Hill Country, John Newcombe Estates is a luxury tennis ranch created by the Australian professional tennis player with 200 newly built homesites and upscale amenities like a $2 million country club.
New Braunfels Weather & Climate
According to the Koppen Classification System, the New Braunfels climate is humid subtropical. That means you're in for hot, muggy summers and short, cold winters. The average temperature typically ranges from about 42°F to 96°F, although it can get as cold as 29°F and as hot as 101°F.
The best time to visit New Braunfels is typically from mid May to September. It does not snow in New Braunfels, TX. However, it does average about 34 inches of rain per year. So, anyone living in New Braunfels should pack an umbrella.
Things to Do in New Braunfels
Residents will find a wide range of fun things to do in New Braunfels, from museums dedicated to German culture to nature preserves and water parks. You'll find plenty of shopping and dining options at local malls such as the New Braunfels Town Center at Creekside, West Pointe Village, or Courtyard Plaza.
The San Marco Premium Outlets are also just a quick drive for discounted items on popular retail brands. Beyond shopping, here are some of the best things to do in New Braunfels, TX.
The Historic Railroad and Modelers Society is a local history museum dedicated to the preservation of railroad artifacts. It is located adjacent to one of the busiest North/South Union Pacific Railroad tracks.
302 W San Antonio St, New Braunfels, TX 78130 (830) 627-2447
Schlitterbahn water park is one of the best things to do in New Braunfels with kids. It features massive water slides, river rides, hotels, and other world-famous attractions.
400 N Liberty Ave, New Braunfels, TX 78130 (830) 625-2351
Landa Park is a 51-acre park on the Comal River that features a miniature train, nature trails, mini-golf, picnic tables, and other New Braunfels family activities.
164 Landa Park Dr, New Braunfels, TX 78130 (830) 221-4350
Additional New Braunfels Attractions
The local Parks and Recreation Department lists programs and events on its website if you're looking for more fun things to do in New Braunfels.
New Braunfels Restaurants
Food lovers will also find various delicious restaurants in New Braunfels, TX serving everything from comfort food to fine cuisine. Here are a few of the best places to eat in New Braunfels.
Buttermilk Cafe is one of the best restaurants in New Braunfels if you want an elevated take on classic breakfast and lunch options such as chicken fried steak and eggs or buttermilk pancakes.
1324 Common St, New Braunfels, TX 78130 (830) 625-8700
Located in a former cotton gin beneath the iconic Gruen water tower, Gristmill River is one of the most famous New Braunfels, TX restaurants and serves classic Texas cuisine with outdoor patio seating and views of the river.
1287 Gruene Rd, New Braunfels, TX 78130 (830) 625-0684
McAdoo's Seafood Company is hands down the best restaurant in New Braunfels, TX if you're in the mood for Cajun-style seafood and classic cocktails.
196 N Castell Ave, New Braunfels, TX 78130 (830) 629-3474
Jobs in New Braunfels
Moving to New Braunfels, TX also offers access to a thriving economy. Its strategic position between Austin and San Antonio offers access to some of the best employment opportunities in Texas, and its fast population growth also attracts new businesses and capital investment. Most jobs in New Braunfels are in exciting fields such as advanced manufacturing, financial services, and information and technology services.
Major employers in New Braunfels include:
Payscale states the average hourly rate for jobs in New Braunfels, TX, is $18.37. There is no shortage of excellent New Braunfels jobs in fields such as veterinary technicians or FBI agents. City of New Braunfels jobs are also available and offer excellent compensation and full benefits.
New Braunfels Schools
Students living in New Braunfels may attend schools in different districts depending on the county in which their address is located. The New Braunfels Independent School District and the Comal County School District are the two main districts. However, small portions of Guadalupe County are zoned for the Marion or Navarro Independent School Districts.
The New Braunfels ISD operates two high schools, two middle schools, and nine elementary schools in New Braunfels, TX. The Comal County ISD operates one high school, two middle schools, and five elementary schools. The two public high schools in New Braunfels proper are New Braunfels High School and Canyon High School. Alamo Colleges-Memorial Early College High School, a freshman center, is also in the city.
New Braunfels High School is considered the best and ranks within the top 500 Texas high schools with a 97% graduation rate. You'll also find several top private schools in New Braunfels, such as New Braunfels Christian Academy and Calvary Baptist Academy.
Residents can also stop by the New Braunfels Public Library to take out books or attend community events.
New Braunfels Statistics and Information
- Counties: Comal and Guadalupe
- New Braunfels area: 45.57 square miles
- New Braunfels zip code: 78130–78133
- New Braunfels area code: 830
- New Braunfels elevation: 630 ft
- New Braunfels time zone: Central Standard Time (UTC-5 and -6)
- The closest airport to New Braunfels: The San Antonio International Airport (SAT) is 27 miles away.
New Braunfels, TX Map
Explore more restaurants, attractions and fun things to do in New Braunfels with this map.
Now that you know all the pros and cons of living in New Braunfels, you're to decide if it's the right place for you. When it’s time to make the journey, trust our award-winning New Braunfels movers to make your relocation easy and affordable. Call us for a free quote.
