If youβre moving to Terrell Hills, youβre headed to one of the most prestigious and established suburbs of San Antonio. Known for its tree-lined streets, beautifully maintained homes, and strong community pride, living in Terrell Hills TX offers an upscale residential feel just minutes from downtown San Antonio.
Part of the exclusive βTri-Citiesββalongside Alamo Heights and Olmos ParkβTerrell Hills blends historic character with modern luxury, top-rated schools, and quick access to Fort Sam Houston, Texas Hill Country, and major San Antonio amenities. Founded in 1939 and named after former San Antonio mayor Frederick Terrell, the community has long been considered one of the best choices for anyone moving to Terrell Hills in search of quiet, stability, and charm.
Whether youβre relocating for family, schools, military access, or a quieter lifestyle near the city, moving to Terrell Hills means enjoying a safe, peaceful, highly walkable community with exceptional home values and timeless character. Many newcomers who are moving to Terrell Hills also choose it for its long-standing reputation as one of the most desirable suburbs in Texas.
Is Terrell Hills a Good Place to Live?
Yes β Terrell Hills is widely considered one of the best places to live in the San Antonio area. Known for its quiet, tree-shaded streets and close-knit community, the city offers a highly desirable blend of safety, charm, and convenience. Residents appreciate its top-rated schools, proximity to downtown San Antonio, and easy access to Fort Sam Houston.
With well-maintained homes, low crime, a family-friendly atmosphere, and a long-standing reputation for quality of life, living here appeals to families, professionals, and anyone moving to Terrell Hills seeking an upscale suburban environment close to the city.
Where Is Terrell Hills TX?
Terrell Hills is a small, independent city in Bexar County, Texas, just five miles northeast of downtown San Antonio β a major advantage for people moving to Terrell Hills for work or school. As one of the three municipalities that make up the historic βTri-Citiesβ area, Terrell Hills sits in the heart of the upscale San Antonio suburbs with immediate access to Broadway, Austin Highway, and Loop 410. It is also about 25 minutes from the Randolph Air Force Base.
Terrell Hills TX Population & Demographics
What is the population of Terrell Hills? According to the 2020 U.S. Census, 5,045 people live in Terrell Hills, TX. As one of the most established suburbs of San Antonio, the population has remained stable over the last decade, contributing to the cityβs tight-knit residential character. Despite its small size, living in Terrell Hills TX feels distinctly upscale and community-oriented, attracting many people moving to Terrell Hills for its quiet environment and long-term stability.
The median age in Terrell Hills is 43.2, reflecting a blend of professionals, families, and retirees who value the cityβs calm atmosphere and proximity to central San Antonio. Educational attainment is exceptionally high: 77.3% of adults hold a bachelorβs degree or higher. Median household income is also one of the highest in Bexar County at $217,800, a major draw for individuals moving to Terrell Hills for its affluence and high quality of life. About 9.1% of residents are foreign-born, contributing to a diverse and well-educated community.
Notable former residents include Grammy-winning musician Christopher Cross and Academy Awardβwinning actor Tommy Lee Jones.
Terrell Hills, TX demographics:
- Sex ratio: 54% men, 46% women
- Median age: 43.2
- Racial & ethnic composition (2020 Census):
- 80.3% White
- 17.6% Hispanic or Latino (any race)
- 13.1% two or more races
- 3.0% Some other race
- 2.0% Asian
- 0.9% Black or African American
- 0.6% American Indian and Alaska Native
- 0.04% Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander
- Median household income: $217,800
- Foreign-born population: 9.1%
- Educational attainment: 77.3% bachelorβs degree or higher
Is Terrell Hills a safe place to live? Yes β Terrell Hills is widely regarded as one of the safest communities in the San Antonio area. While crime statistics are reported at the regional level, the San Antonio 2024 FBI UCR data shows a violent crime rate of 594 per 100,000 and a property crime rate of 4,635 per 100,000.
As an independent municipality with its own police department, Terrell Hills consistently reports far lower crime levels than the San Antonio crime rate. Residents frequently cite its small size, local governance, and strong community engagement as major contributors to its safety.
Cost of Living in Terrell Hills, TX
Is living in Terrell Hills expensive? Yes. Even though the broader San Antonio cost of living has an index of 90.7, Terrell Hills is one of the most affluent suburbs in Bexar County, with housing prices dramatically higher than those in the surrounding areas. According to the Economic Policy Institute, a family of four in Bexar County needs about $96,508 per year to cover basic expenses β but households moving to Terrell Hills typically require a larger budget due to premium real estate and higher-end local amenities.
Everyday expenses in Terrell Hills align closely with San Antonio, based on Numbeoβs regional averages:
- Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: $17.00
- Milk (1 liter): $1.07
- Loaf of bread: $3.10
- Gasoline (1 liter): $0.76
- Basic Terrell Hills utilities per month (electricity, water, cooling, garbage): $195.97
- Fitness club membership: $42.56/month
Terrell Hills TX Real Estate
Housing is the largest contributor to the cost of living. The median home sale price in Terrell Hills is $861,000, a massive 105% increase year-over-year, with a median price of $280 per square foot. Homes stay on the market around 61 days, and inventory remains limited due to the city's small size and high demand.
If you're renting instead of buying, Zillow estimates the average rent in Terrell Hills at $2,550 per month, placing Terrell Hills among the priciest rental markets in the San Antonio area.
Best Neighborhoods in and Around Terrell Hills, TX
Whether you're moving to Terrell Hills for its quiet, tree-lined streets, spacious lots, or its central location near downtown San Antonio and Fort Sam Houston, the surrounding neighborhoods offer several additional options for buyers and renters seeking a similar suburban feel. Here are the most notable communities near Terrell Hills.
East Terrell Hills sits just northeast of Terrell Hills and offers a more accessible price point while still maintaining close proximity to Alamo Heights, Fort Sam Houston, and major San Antonio corridors. With classic mid-century homes, mature trees, and quick access to I-410, this neighborhood is an excellent choice for military families, first-time buyers, and commuters. Residents also appreciate its walkability to schools and local parks.
Directly adjacent to Terrell Hills, Terrell Heights delivers a similar charm with inviting bungalows, Craftsman homes, and well-maintained streets. Its location between Broadway and Austin Highway puts residents minutes from the shops and restaurants of the Alamo Heights area. The neighborhood has a strong sense of community, making it a favorite for families and professionals looking for a quieter, character-rich alternative to the inner city.
Wilshire Terrace, located just south of Terrell Hills, is a small, peaceful enclave known for its tidy lawns, modest single-family homes, and friendly, long-established households. With easy access to Austin Highway and Harry Wurzbach Road, Wilshire Terrace offers a strategic location for commuters heading into downtown San Antonio or toward Randolph AFB. Its affordability and neighborhood stability make it an appealing choice for those who want to be close to Terrell Hills without the premium price tag.
Terrell Hills TX Weather & Climate
Terrell Hills has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers, mild winters, and plenty of sunshine, similar to the San Antonio climate. Summer highs often reach the mid-90sΒ°F, with occasional days over 100Β°F, while winter temperatures typically stay in the 60sΒ°F with cool nights. Rainfall averages about 33 inches per year, mostly in spring and early fall. Snow is extremely rare.
If you're moving to Terrell Hills, expect long warm seasons, short cool periods, and reliable weather for outdoor activities year-round.
Things to Do in Terrell Hills, Texas
Wondering about the best things to do in Terrell Hills? While the community itself is primarily residential, its central location puts you minutes from San Antonioβs top cultural attractions, parks, museums, outdoor activities, and family-friendly attractions. Youβll also find convenient shopping at nearby shopping centers such as Terrell Plaza, which offers groceries, dining, and everyday essentials.
Here are some of the best Terrell Hills tourist attractions and nearby highlights.
Just a few minutes from Terrell Hills, the San Antonio Botanical Garden showcases 38 acres of themed gardens, walking trails, a glass conservatory, and seasonal exhibits. Itβs a favorite spot for peaceful weekend strolls, plant enthusiasts, and family outings.
555 Funston Pl, San Antonio, TX 78209 (210) 536-1400
Geneseo Esplanade
This quiet, tree-lined green space sits near Terrell Hills and provides a relaxing place for walks, jogs, or picnics. Residents enjoy its peaceful atmosphere and easy accessibility from surrounding neighborhoods.
Geneseo Rd & Vanderhoeven Dr, San Antonio, TX 78209
Founded in 1925, Kiddie Park is the oldest childrenβs amusement park in the U.S. With classic rides, gentle attractions, and a nostalgic feel, itβs a beloved destination for families living in Terrell Hills.
3903 N St Maryβs St, San Antonio, TX 78212 (210) 734-7184
Additional Attractions Near Terrell Hills, TX
The Terrell Hills Parks & Recreation Department maintains parks within the town limits β residents can check their calendar for upcoming events and community programming.
Best Restaurants Near Terrell Hills, TX
If youβre moving to Terrell Hills, youβll quickly discover that while the town itself is small and primarily residential, it sits just minutes from excellent dining options in Alamo Heights and central San Antonio. From Puerto Rican comfort food to local gastropubs and Mediterranean flavors, residents enjoy a wide variety of cuisine close to home.
Here are a few great Terrell Hills restaurants:
A community favorite for authentic Puerto Rican dishes, El Pilon Sabor Boricua serves mofongo, pernil, tostones, empanadas, and other classics full of island flavor. Itβs a cozy, family-run spot thatβs perfect for takeout or a casual meal.
1626 McCullough Ave, San Antonio, TX 78212 (210) 782-8877
Located in nearby Alamo Heights, The Broadway 5050 is a lively bar and grill known for burgers, sandwiches, cocktails, and its retro roadhouse vibe. Itβs a popular community hangout for happy hour, weekend sports, and relaxed dinners with friends.
5050 Broadway, Alamo Heights, TX 78209 (210) 832-0050
Just a short drive from Terrell Hills, Habibi CafΓ© offers Mediterranean favorites like shawarma, kebabs, hummus, falafel, and fresh-baked pita. With generous portions and casual counter service, itβs a go-to spot for quick and flavorful meals.
3011 N St Maryβs St, San Antonio, TX 78212 (210) 735-1556
Terrell Hills TX Jobs
Looking for jobs in Terrell Hills? Because the city is small and primarily residential, most employment opportunities come from the surrounding San Antonio metro. Many residents commute to nearby job centers in Alamo Heights, Downtown San Antonio, and the broader region, where major industries include healthcare, education, military, technology, finance, and hospitality.
According to ZipRecruiter, the average salary in Terrell Hills is about $46,207 per year, though actual household earnings in the area are much higher β the cityβs median household income is $217,800, one of the highest in Bexar County. This reflects the strong presence of dual-income professional families and residents employed in upper-level corporate, medical, and government roles.
Major employers near Terrell Hills include Joint Base San Antonio, H-E-B, USAA, Rackspace Technology, San Antonio ISD, and healthcare systems such as Methodist Healthcare and Baptist Health System. With quick access to major highways and employment districts, Terrell Hills offers quiet suburban living with direct connections to one of Texasβs strongest job markets.
Terrell Hills TX Schools
Families living in Terrell Hills are served primarily by the Alamo Heights Independent School District (AHISD), one of the highest-rated districts in the San Antonio area. Schools commonly attended by local students include Cambridge Elementary, Alamo Heights Junior School, and Alamo Heights High School, all known for strong academics, athletics, and community involvement.
Because Terrell Hills borders central San Antonio, families also have access to nearby private and faith-based schools, as well as higher education institutions such as Trinity University, the University of the Incarnate Word, and San Antonio College.
Terrell Hills TX Statistics & Information
- County: Bexar County
- Terrell Hills area: 1.61 square miles
- Terrell Hills zip code: 78209
- Terrell Hills area code: 210
- Terrell Hills elevation: ~820 feet above sea level
- Time zone: Central Standard Time (CST); Central Daylight Time (CDT) in summer
- Closest airport to Terrell Hills: San Antonio International Airport (SAT) β about 5 miles northwest of Terrell Hills
FAQs
What Is Terrell Hills Known for?
Terrell Hills is known for being an affluent, tree-lined suburb of San Antonio with a 2020 population of 5,045 and some of the highest household incomes in Bexar County. The city is distinguished by its quiet residential streets, strong community, proximity to Alamo Heights, and access to top-rated schools in the Alamo Heights Independent School District. Terrell Hills is also recognized for its historic homes, strong community services, and convenient location just a few miles from central San Antonio.
How Much Does It Cost to Live in Terrell Hills TX?
Living in Terrell Hills is considered expensive due to high housing costs and its location within the San Antonio metro. The median home price is about $861,000, while average rent is roughly $2,550 per month. The Economic Policy Institute estimates a family of four in Bexar County needs about $96,508 per year to cover basic expenses. Everyday items such as groceries, utilities, and gas remain close to San Antonio averages, but housing drives most of the overall cost.
What County Is Terrell Hills TX in?
Terrell Hills is located in Bexar County in south-central Texas. The city covers about 1.61 square miles and sits just northeast of central San Antonio, bordered by Alamo Heights and Fort Sam Houston. As an incorporated municipality, Terrell Hills maintains its own police force and city services while remaining closely tied to the greater San Antonio area for employment, schools, shopping, and transportation.
How Far Is Terrell Hills From Downtown San Antonio?
The community of Terrell Hills is approximately 5 miles northeast of Downtown San Antonio, making it a short 10β15 minute drive depending on traffic. Residents benefit from quick access to major employment centers, the Pearl District, Fort Sam Houston, and cultural attractions such as the Witte Museum and Brackenridge Park. Its central location is one of the reasons Terrell Hills is considered one of the most desirable suburbs in the San Antonio area.
Map of Terrell Hills, TX
Ready to Make Living in Terrell Hills a Reality?
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