Moving to New Braunfels. Everyone seems to be doing it.
Welcome to the heart of the Texas Hill Country — where crystal-clear rivers, live music, and a slower pace of life meet a fast-growing economy.
If you’re thinking about moving to New Braunfels, Texas, this guide covers everything you need to know — from neighborhoods and schools to cost of living and local culture.
Whether you’re relocating from Austin, San Antonio, or out of state, New Braunfels offers a unique blend of small-town charm and big-city convenience that’s hard to beat.
🏞️ Why Everyone’s Moving to New Braunfels
Over the past decade, New Braunfels has quietly become one of the fastest-growing cities in Texas. Located halfway between Austin and San Antonio along I-35, it’s perfectly positioned for commuters, retirees, and remote professionals alike.
Here’s what keeps drawing people here:
Low property taxes compared to larger metro areas
No state income tax (thank you, Texas)
Top-rated schools in Comal and New Braunfels ISDs
Easy access to outdoor fun on the Comal and Guadalupe Rivers
Vibrant community spirit anchored by local events like Wurstfest and Wassailfest
You can spend a Saturday tubing down the Guadalupe, hitting a winery in Gruene, or catching live music at Gruene Hall — all within minutes of home.
🏘️ The Neighborhoods Locals Love
New Braunfels isn’t just one neighborhood — it’s a patchwork of communities, each with its own personality and perks.
Veramendi
One of the newest and most desirable master-planned communities in the city. Veramendi offers modern homes, walking trails, parks, and easy access to shopping and schools. It’s ideal for families who want amenities without leaving city limits.
Vintage Oaks
If you’re after Hill Country acreage living, Vintage Oaks delivers. Large custom homes, resort-style pools, and panoramic views make it a favorite for those wanting space and serenity.
Gruene
Historic, walkable, and alive with music and dining. Homes near Gruene tend to be higher-end, but you can walk to Gruene Hall, the Gristmill, and the Guadalupe River. Think “charming with character.”
- River Chase
- Private Guadalupe River access, larger lots, and peaceful surroundings — perfect for buyers who crave outdoor living but still want to be close to town.
Creekside
Near the Creekside shopping district and H-E-B Plus, this area offers newer homes, great schools, and convenience. It’s a top pick for young families and busy professionals.
If you’re not sure which neighborhood fits your lifestyle, download my Free New Braunfels Relocation Guide— it breaks down each community, school district, and lifestyle factor in detail.
💰 Cost of Living and Home Prices
Compared to Austin or San Antonio, New Braunfels offers more house for your money — but prices have been climbing fast.
Median home price (2025): ~$420,000
Property tax rates: typically 1.9%–2.3%, depending on subdivision
Utilities: 6–10% lower than Austin
No city income tax: helps offset property costs
If you’re wondering what you can realistically afford here, try my AI-powered Home Affordability Tool
— it gives you a personalized estimate in 30 seconds.
No credit check, no phone calls, just clear numbers.
🎓 Schools & Education
Families moving to the area will find two excellent public districts:
Comal ISD – serves the outer parts of New Braunfels and surrounding counties. Known for strong academics, athletics, and career-readiness programs.
New Braunfels ISD – smaller, city-centered, and community-focused with top schools like New Braunfels High.
Private school options include New Braunfels Christian Academy, St. Peter & Paul School, and St. John Paul II Catholic High School.
Pro tip: If you have kids, double-check school zoning before you buy — boundaries overlap between Comal and NBISD in some neighborhoods.
🧭 Commuting & Location Perks
Living in New Braunfels means you’re:
🚗 25 minutes from San Marcos
🚗 45 minutes from Austin
🚗 30 minutes from San Antonio
Many residents work remotely or commute part-time, enjoying Hill Country living while keeping access to big-city careers.
Nearby airports (SAT and AUS) make travel easy, and you’ll never run out of weekend getaways — Canyon Lake, Fredericksburg, Wimberley, and Boerne are all short drives away.
🎶 Lifestyle: Where Fun Meets Community
New Braunfels has that rare mix of small-town friendliness and constant activity.
Some highlights:
Wurstfest: a 10-day German celebration of sausage, beer, and polka.
Tubing & kayaking: on the Comal, San Marcos and Guadalupe Rivers.
Schlitterbahn Waterpark: a world-famous family favorite.
Hill Country Wine Trail: perfect for weekend escapes.
Live music: from Gruene Hall to Krause’s Biergarten.
Locals love the laid-back feel — it’s community over congestion here.
🧠 Ten Pro Tips for Relocating to New Braunfels
Visit in person.
Drive neighborhoods at different times of day — traffic and vibe change a lot between morning and evening.
Inventory moves fast, especially under $400K. My team at Edge Home Finance can help you get a competitive pre-approval quickly.
Understand property tax nuances.
Ask about homestead exemptions and MUD or PID districts before you buy.
Work with local pros.
Lenders, inspectors, and insurance agents who know Comal County save you time and headaches.
Don’t wait on rates.
The cost of waiting can outweigh small rate drops. Use my Cost of Waiting Calculator to see the math for yourself.
📈 Why Buyers Trust Local Expertise
I’m Steve Tomaselli — a mortgage broker, branch manager, and local resident here in New Braunfels.
After 30+ years in mortgage lending and personally relocating to the Hill Country myself, I built my business around one mission:
Helping homebuyers make confident, data-driven decisions without surprises.
Unlike big banks, I shop dozens of lenders to find the best rate and program for your situation — whether you’re a first-time buyer, a retiree downsizing, or a family moving from out of state.
My goal is to give you tools, education, and confidence every step of the way.
🏁 Ready to Call New Braunfels Home?
Before you start packing boxes, grab your free New Braunfels Relocation Guide
— it’s packed with insider insights on neighborhoods, schools, recreation, and local businesses.
Then, take 30 seconds to discover your home affordability range—no credit pull, no spam, just clarity.
Final Word
Moving to New Braunfels is more than a change of address — it’s a lifestyle upgrade.
Between the rivers, community events, and small-town hospitality, it’s easy to see why so many people are trading city traffic for Hill Country sunsets.
If you’re ready to make the move, I’d love to be your guide — from pre-approval to move-in day.
Let’s make your next move the best one yet.