Gulfport vs San Antonio

Category / Metric	Gulfport	San Antonio
Financial Overview
Median Income	$47,564	$62,322
Unemployment Rate	3.8%	4.2%
Housing Market
Median Home Price	$175,000	$264,900
Price per SqFt	$136	$153
Monthly Rent (1BR)	$923	$1,197
Housing Cost Index	61.0	94.2
Cost of Living
Groceries Index	94.9	91.9
Gas Price (Gallon)	$3.40	$2.35
Safety & Lifestyle
Violent Crime (per 100k)	291.2	798.0
Bachelor's Degree+	20.6%	30.5%
Air Quality (AQI)	34	39

San Antonio vs. Gulfport: The Ultimate Texas vs. Mississippi Showdown

You’re looking at a relocation that feels like comparing a sizzling fajita to a fresh Gulf oyster. On one side, San Antonio—the massive, historic, military-tech hub of South Texas. On the other, Gulfport, Mississippi—the salty, laid-back, coastal gem of the Gulf South.

Choosing between them isn't just about geography; it's about choosing a lifestyle. Are you chasing the hustle and bustle of a major metro, or craving the slow, rhythmic pulse of the tides?

Let’s break down this head-to-head battle to see where your next chapter should be written.

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1. The Vibe Check: Big City Energy vs. Coastal Chill

San Antonio is a city of contrasts. It’s where the Alamo meets the River Walk, and where military precision blends with fiesta energy. With a population of 1.5 million, it’s the seventh-largest city in the U.S. It’s a sprawling, diverse metro where you can find a quiet suburb, a bustling downtown, or a tech corridor. The vibe is family-friendly, culturally rich, and packed with things to do—museums, professional sports (Spurs, anyone?), and a legendary food scene. It’s a city that works hard but plays harder.

Gulfport, on the other hand, is a breath of fresh, salty air. With a population of just 72,824, it’s a true coastal town. Life here revolves around the water—boating, fishing, and watching sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico. It’s the home of the Mississippi Coast Coliseum and a growing casino scene, but the pace is undeniably slower. You’ll trade skyscrapers for shrimp boats and traffic jams for beach walks. It’s a city for those who want to disconnect from the grind and reconnect with nature.

Who is it for?

• San Antonio is for the urbanite who wants big-city amenities without the astronomical price tags of Austin or Dallas. It’s perfect for families, young professionals, and anyone who thrives on culture and community events.
• Gulfport is for the retiree, the remote worker, or the soul who dreams of a life where the ocean is your backyard. It’s for those who prioritize peace, affordability, and a strong sense of local community over endless entertainment options.

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2. The Dollar Power: Where Does Your Money Go Further?

This is where the rubber meets the road. Let’s talk about purchasing power—how far your salary stretches in each city.

Salary Wars:

• San Antonio has a higher median income of $62,322. However, the cost of living is also higher. The key advantage here is Texas’s 0% state income tax. This is a massive boost to your take-home pay, especially compared to states with high income taxes (like California or New York). If you earn $100k in San Antonio, you keep more of it upfront.
• Gulfport has a lower median income of $47,564. While Mississippi does have a state income tax (ranging from 0% to 5%), the extremely low cost of living can make your paycheck feel surprisingly robust. You might earn less on paper, but your essential expenses are drastically lower.

Let’s look at the hard numbers for a typical monthly budget:

Cost of Living Comparison (Monthly Essentials)

Category	San Antonio	Gulfport	Winner
Rent (1BR)	$1,197	$923	Gulfport
Utilities	~$170	~$150	Gulfport
Groceries	~$380	~$350	Gulfport
Housing Index	94.2	61.0	Gulfport

Note: Housing Index is a baseline where 100 is the national average. Gulfport's 61.0 means housing is 39% cheaper than the U.S. average, a massive discount.

The Verdict on Purchasing Power:
Gulfport is the undisputed champion for pure cost savings. You’ll pay significantly less for rent and housing. If your income is fixed or you’re on a fixed budget (like retirement), your dollar will stretch much further in Gulfport.

However, San Antonio’s 0% income tax and higher median income create a different kind of power. If you’re a high-earning professional (say, in tech, healthcare, or military contracting), you can leverage that tax savings to afford a higher quality of life—like a larger home in a good school district—while still building wealth. It’s a trade-off: Gulfport offers low-cost living, while San Antonio offers high-earning potential with tax advantages.

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3. The Housing Market: To Buy or to Rent?

San Antonio:

• Market Status: Competitive, but not cutthroat like Austin. It’s a balanced market leaning toward buyers in some suburbs and sellers in others.
• Median Home Price: $264,900. This is surprisingly affordable for a major U.S. city. You get more square footage and land than you would in coastal metros.
• Rent vs. Buy: Renting is a solid option, with median rent at $1,197. However, buying is attractive due to the reasonable home prices and the potential for appreciation as the city grows. The Housing Index of 94.2 means it’s slightly below the national average, making it a smart long-term investment compared to pricier cities.

Gulfport:

• Market Status: A buyer’s market. Inventory is higher, and competition is lower. You have more negotiating power.
• Median Home Price: $175,000. This is an incredible entry point for homeownership. You can often find a charming home near the water for a price that would be a down payment in San Antonio.
• Rent vs. Buy: With median rent at $923, renting is incredibly cheap. But buying is even more compelling. The Housing Index of 61.0 is a steal. If you’re looking to own a home without a massive mortgage, Gulfport is a dream.

The Verdict:
For pure affordability and homeownership, Gulfport wins hands-down. You can own a home here for a fraction of the cost. For investment potential and a stable market in a growing metro, San Antonio presents a compelling case, offering a balance of affordability and opportunity.

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4. The Dealbreakers: Quality of Life Factors

Traffic & Commute:

• San Antonio: As a major metro, traffic is real. The I-10, I-35, and Loop 1604 can be congested during rush hour. Expect commutes of 20-45 minutes depending on where you live and work. It’s manageable but requires planning.
• Gulfport: Traffic is minimal. You can get across town in under 15 minutes. The pace is relaxed, and you’ll spend more time waiting for a train to pass than sitting in gridlock.

Weather:

• San Antonio: Classic Texas weather. Hot, dry summers (regularly hitting 95°F+), mild winters (rarely freezing), and a decent spring/fall. Humidity is present but not as oppressive as Houston. Be prepared for intense sun and the occasional drought.
• Gulfport: Classic Gulf Coast. Hot, humid summers that feel like a sauna, mild winters (rarely freezes), and a significant risk of hurricanes (June-November). The humidity is a major factor and can be a dealbreaker for some. The trade-off is the beautiful coastal breeze and access to the beach.

Crime & Safety:

• San Antonio: This is a significant concern. The violent crime rate is 798.0 per 100,000. This is 2.7 times higher than the U.S. average. Safety varies drastically by neighborhood; some areas are very safe, while others have high crime rates. Research is critical.
• Gulfport: Much safer by comparison. The violent crime rate is 291.2 per 100,000. This is slightly above the U.S. average (approx. 267/100k) but significantly lower than San Antonio. It’s generally considered a safe community, especially in residential areas.

The Verdict:

• For low crime and short commutes: Gulfport is the clear winner.
• For weather: It’s a toss-up based on preference. Do you prefer dry heat (San Antonio) or humid coastal air (Gulfport)?

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5. The Final Verdict: Who Should Move Where?

After weighing the data and the vibes, here’s the breakdown.

Winner for Families: San Antonio

Why? While Gulfport is affordable, San Antonio offers superior educational resources, a diverse job market (military, healthcare, tech), and endless family-friendly activities (zoos, museums, Six Flags, the River Walk). The higher median income and 0% income tax provide better long-term financial stability for growing families. The main caveat is the higher crime rate, which necessitates careful neighborhood selection.

Callout Box: San Antonio wins for families seeking opportunity, variety, and a dynamic environment. Just be diligent about choosing a safe community.

Winner for Singles/Young Professionals: San Antonio

Why? The career opportunities are in a different league. San Antonio is a hub for the military, healthcare (Texas Medical Center), and tech (Rackspace, USAA). The social scene is vibrant, with nightlife, festivals, and a growing young professional network. Gulfport’s economy is more limited, with fewer corporate jobs and a reliance on tourism, gaming, and manufacturing.

Callout Box: San Antonio is the clear choice for career growth, networking, and an active social life.

Winner for Retirees: Gulfport

Why? This is a no-brunner. Gulfport offers extreme affordability, low property taxes (Mississippi has some of the lowest in the nation), and a relaxed, peaceful lifestyle. The community is tight-knit, and the natural beauty is therapeutic. The hurricane risk is a consideration, but for many retirees, the cost savings and quality of life outweigh the seasonal threat.

Callout Box: Gulfport is a retiree’s paradise—low costs, no state income tax on Social Security, and a slower pace that’s perfect for enjoying your golden years.

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Pros & Cons at a Glance

San Antonio Pros:

• 0% State Income Tax – A huge financial advantage.
• Strong Job Market – Diverse industries and major employers.
• Cultural Richness – World-class museums, food, and history.
• Family-Friendly – Endless activities and good school districts (in certain areas).
• Affordable for a Major City – Median home price $264,900 is a steal.

San Antonio Cons:

• High Crime Rate – Requires careful neighborhood research (798.0/100k violent crime).
• Traffic – Growing metro with congestion on major loops.
• Summer Heat – Can be brutal, with regular 95°F+ days.
• Urban Sprawl – Can feel disconnected if you pick the wrong suburb.

Gulfport Pros:

• Extreme Affordability – Median home price $175,000 and low rent ($923).
• Low Crime – Significantly safer than San Antonio (291.2/100k).
• Coastal Lifestyle – Beach access, fishing, boating, and nature.
• Minimal Traffic – Quick commutes and easy living.
• Tight-Knit Community – Strong local feel.

Gulfport Cons:

• Limited Job Market – Fewer high-paying corporate opportunities.
• Hurricane Risk – Annual threat from June-November.
• High Humidity – Can be oppressive in summer.
• Fewer Big-City Amenities – Less variety in dining, shopping, and entertainment.
• Lower Median Income – $47,564 can limit financial growth.

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The Bottom Line

This showdown isn’t about which city is “better”—it’s about which city is better for you.

• Choose San Antonio if you’re chasing career growth, cultural diversity, and the energy of a major metro, and you’re willing to navigate a higher crime rate and traffic for the privilege.
• Choose Gulfport if you’re prioritizing affordability, safety, a peaceful coastal lifestyle, and a slower pace, and you’re comfortable with a more limited job market and hurricane season.

Run the numbers for your personal budget, visit if you can, and trust your gut. Whether you end up savoring BBQ on the River Walk or watching dolphins from the Gulf, you’re in for a unique Southern experience.