San Antonio's Affordable Suburb Is A Growing Texas Town With Charming Shops And Parks

Cibolo may not be the most well-known town in Texas, but apparently, it ranks among the most affordable. The city, located roughly 20 miles east of San Antonio International Airport (SAT), was named one of the cheapest San Antonio suburbs to live in for 2025 by Niche. As far as housing costs go, Cibolo — pronounced "sib-uh-low" — is often a value compared with nearby communities such as the uber-popular, affluent enclave of Alamo Heights.

The city's comparatively modest housing market, coupled with its down-home flair, may explain the dramatic population boom over the decades. According to the City of Cibolo, more than 35,000 people have flocked to the area since 1970. Being so close to San Antonio, an iconic city with the most free things to do in America, there's certainly no shortage of activities and places to stay in the area today. With its homey, small-town atmosphere and big city amenities, Cibolo delivers the best of both worlds.

"It is a fast-growing area, but the older parts of the city retain a small-town feel," one resident wrote on Niche, adding that there are "lots of local businesses as well as nationwide ones to shop from, and ... plenty of food options in the area." What's more, "you are never less than 15 minutes away from a park no matter where you are in Cibolo," another local shared.

Experience the heart and soul of Cibolo, Texas, with a trip downtown. The historic downtown district, affectionately known as Old Town by locals, is centered around Main Street. There, you'll be met by a bevy of old-fashioned storefronts, as well as a good selection of cute shops. The Mill Boutique & Mercantile is a local favorite, perhaps for its vintage-style ice cream parlor. "Absolutely charming and adorable with whimsical items and super cute fashion. Perfect for a last-minute, unique gift or something fun for your home. Top your shopping experience off with a super ice cream cone!" one Google review reads. Cibolo Grange Market is also worth checking out; it features over 30 local farm, craft, and food vendors, offering everything from handmade soaps and apparel to farm fresh produce and baked goods. "Loved going to the market! Fresh produce, jams, natural soaps and lotions ... Can not wait to go back for more!" a local noted.

Those 21 and up can head next door to imbibe at Old Main Ice House's open-air bar, set in a 1920s-era building. If you're in the mood for something a bit more filling, grab a bite to eat at Kindling Texas Kitchen, which is also housed in a historic structure. One patron called the restaurant a "true hidden gem" in a Tripadvisor review. "The meal came out hot and every one of our food selections were scrumptious, including dessert," they added. If you want to tuck into authentic Texas barbecue, Harmon's BBQ is the place to be. In an online review, one diner described the food as "fall-off-the-bone good." Hungry yet?

Cibolo offers ample green space for a small city, with roughly 200 acres of parkland spread across several public parks. There are four main city parks to explore, each offering something special. Hit the links at Schlather Park's 18-hole frisbee golf course. Take in the natural beauty of the area at Niemietz Park, which flanks the city's namesake, Cibolo Creek. Tackle the hiking trails at Al Rich Park. Or pay your respects to those who have served with a family picnic at Veterans Memorial Park.

More nature views await at the nearby Warbler Woods Bird Sanctuary. Texas boasts some of the best birdwatching destinations the U.S. has to offer, and while this refuge didn't make the cut, there's still plenty of birding to be had. Nearly 300 bird species have been spotted in Warbler Woods, which features more than 100 acres of wooded and grassy terrains. As you meander through the sanctuary, keep your eye out for various relics dating back to the 1800s, including an old cistern, as well as artifacts from when Indigenous Peoples called the land home.

You can do more birdwatching at Crescent Bend Nature Park, near Niemietz. Or, have a day of underground fun at Natural Bridge Caverns — Texas' premier family-owned adventure park. This attraction is located about 20 minutes outside of town, but if the reviews are anything to go by, it's well worth the drive. "My experience to the caves in San Antonio was truly an unforgettable one," one visitor wrote in a Tripadvisor review. "The stunning rock formations were mind blowing."