San Antonio Ranks Among The Top U.S. Cities With The Fastest Growth In Senior Renters

A new national study has shed light on a rapidly growing trend in the San Antonio housing market: a surge in renters aged 65 and older. According to data from the U.S. Census analyzed by Point2Homes, senior renters in the San Antonio-New Braunfels metro have grown by 24% over the past decade, signaling a significant shift in how older residents approach housing in 2025.

This growth translates to more than 11,000 seniors currently renting homes in the area, with nearly 2,300 of them choosing single-family rentals. While San Antonio ranked No. 62 in terms of overall growth percentage nationwide, the trend reflects broader lifestyle changes that are impacting both the rental and real estate markets in Bexar County.

🏡 Why Are More Seniors Choosing to Rent?

The shift toward renting is largely driven by rising property taxes, increased maintenance costs, and an overall desire to downsize or simplify life after retirement. Many older homeowners are selling their longtime properties and opting for rental homes or apartments that provide flexibility and lower day-to-day responsibilities.

National surveys like the Harris Poll reveal that older adults have a lower threshold for current mortgage interest rates, meaning they’re less likely to buy again if they sell. For many, renting provides an easier path to live closer to family, access medical services, and enjoy low-maintenance lifestyles.

In fact, the phenomenon has a name: “baby chasers”—grandparents who move to be near their grandchildren. San Antonio, with its strong military ties, family-centric culture, and growing medical district, is perfectly positioned to attract this demographic.

📊 San Antonio's Senior Renter Breakdown

• 9.6% of all renters in the metro are aged 65+

• 9.5% are aged 55-64

• The dominant renter demographic remains 25–34-year-olds at 29.9%

• Only 16.8% of renters are aged 18–24, showing that affordability is appealing to more than just young adults

These numbers reveal a growing balance between generations in the rental market—and highlight how seniors are becoming a key driver in San Antonio’s housing landscape.

🏙️ What This Means for the San Antonio Real Estate Market

If you’re a homeowner looking to sell, this trend opens up an important opportunity: marketing your home to older buyers who may be looking to cash out and rent. Homes in single-level neighborhoods, walkable communities, and areas near medical centers may appeal especially to this group.

For investors, the increase in senior renters means high demand for low-maintenance rental homes or duplexes in quiet neighborhoods. This is especially relevant near medical districts, such as Stone Oak, the Medical Center, and Alamo Heights—where proximity to healthcare services is a strong draw.

For renters themselves, it’s a reminder to act early. As demand from older demographics rises, rental inventory could tighten, especially for one-story homes and 55+ friendly communities.

🔎 What’s Happening Elsewhere in Texas?

While San Antonio’s growth is notable, other Texas metros are seeing even more explosive changes:

• Austin-Round Rock ranks #3 nationwide with an 81.1% growth rate

• Dallas-Fort Worth ranks #5, gaining over 78,000 new senior renters

• Houston comes in at #8, adding over 63,000 senior renters

While San Antonio's pace is steadier, this could actually be a good thing. The market remains more affordable and sustainable compared to cities like Austin and Dallas, making it an ideal landing spot for seniors looking to rent without breaking the bank.

📬 Brought to you by CallTheCavalryGroup.com — Military-Friendly. Family-Focused. San Antonio Real Estate That Moves With Purpose.