San Antonio International Airport is Getting a $2.5 Billion Upgrade

by Tre Serrano

 

San Antonio is getting ready for takeoff—literally. A $2.5 billion upgrade is coming to San Antonio International Airport (SAT), with plans for a massive new terminal that will transform how the city connects with the world.

Slated to open in 2028, the new 850,000-square-foot terminal will be the largest in the city’s history, adding:

  • 17 new gates

  • More international travel capacity

  • And over 16,000 new jobs to the region

But this isn’t just a travel story—it’s a major signal of economic and real estate growth for San Antonio and the surrounding communities.


🛫 What’s Included in the Airport Expansion?

The new terminal project is designed to modernize San Antonio’s global reach while improving the travel experience for millions of passengers each year.

Key highlights:

  • 850,000 sq. ft. terminal space

  • 17 new gates, capable of handling wide-body international aircraft

  • Expanded customs and international arrival capacity

  • Improved passenger experience, dining, and shopping areas

  • Sustainability-first design with smart technology and energy efficiency

  • Thousands of construction and permanent jobs generated during and after the build

The upgrade aims to position San Antonio as a major travel and business hub—not just regionally, but globally.


🏡 What It Means for Real Estate in San Antonio

Big infrastructure investments like this are game-changers for real estate. Here’s how this airport expansion is expected to impact buyers, sellers, and investors:


📈 1. Increased Demand for Housing Near Airport Corridors

Neighborhoods with easy access to SAT—such as Alamo Heights, Terrell Hills, North Central, and parts of Northeast San Antonio—are likely to see:

  • Rising buyer interest from frequent travelers and airline employees

  • Appreciation in home values tied to increased demand

  • Greater appeal to executives, consultants, and business travelers relocating for work


🏢 2. Job Growth = More Renters & Homebuyers

With an estimated 16,000 jobs being created (including airport staff, retail, hospitality, and logistics), the areas surrounding SAT could see:

  • Increased rental demand

  • Greater need for multi-family and workforce housing

  • Expansion of nearby retail and service businesses

For investors, this means opportunities to acquire or build in fast-growing workforce zones.


🏙️ 3. Boost to the Local Economy = Citywide Growth

As air travel becomes more accessible and international routes expand:

  • Tourism increases, fueling the STR (short-term rental) market

  • Corporate travel increases, supporting business relocations and expansions

  • Events and conventions are more likely to choose San Antonio over competing cities

All of this drives more economic activity, which ultimately supports a stronger, more resilient real estate market.


🌎 Will San Antonio Become a Global Gateway?

With this expansion, San Antonio is aiming to compete with Austin, Dallas, and Houston as a major travel and logistics center. That means:

  • More direct flights to international destinations

  • More incentive for companies to headquarter or expand here

  • Higher visibility for global investors and developers

For buyers and sellers, this is more than convenience—it's a signal that the city is leveling up.


🧭 Neighborhoods to Watch

Real estate near the airport may heat up. Keep an eye on:

  • North Central (Castle Hills, Shearer Hills, and Oak Park–Northwood)

  • Alamo Heights & Terrell Hills

  • East and Southeast SA for new development opportunities

  • Live Oak, Windcrest, and Universal City for accessible suburban living


🗣️ What Do You Think?

Do you believe this $2.5 billion investment will put San Antonio on the map as a major travel hub?
Would you consider living or investing near an airport if it meant easier access to global destinations and rising property value?


Brought to you by CallTheCavalryGroup.com – San Antonio’s trusted voice in real estate and relocation strategy.

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Tre Serrano

Team Lead | License ID: 687355

+1(914) 282-2370

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