Fort Sam Houston
Fort Sam Houston is the home of Army Medical Command and hosts the Army Medical Center of Excellence, training the Army's medical professionals, and is part of Joint Base San Antonio. Located within San Antonio city limits, residents have immediate access to one of the most military-friendly and culturally rich cities in the country with the River Walk, SeaWorld, Six Flags, and outstanding Tex-Mex cuisine. San Antonio's warm climate, affordable housing relative to other major metros, and strong military community make Fort Sam Houston a sought-after assignment.
Neighborhoods Near Fort Sam Houston
Popular communities where military families stationed at Fort Sam Houston choose to live.
Alamo Heights / Terrell Hills
5–10 min to main gateUpscale independent cities encircled by San Antonio, immediately adjacent to Fort Sam Houston with excellent schools and historic neighborhoods.
Stone Oak / North San Antonio
20–30 min to main gateMaster-planned suburban communities north of the city with newer homes, highly rated schools, and strong amenities — popular with senior personnel.
Converse / Universal City
20–25 min to main gateEast San Antonio suburbs adjacent to Randolph AFB, offering affordable homes with easy access to both Fort Sam Houston and JBSA-Randolph.
Schools & Education
Alamo Heights ISD / North East ISD
Alamo Heights ISD is tiny but ranks among the top in Texas. North East ISD serves the larger Stone Oak and northeast areas with excellent programs.
- Alamo Heights High School consistently ranks in the top 5% of Texas high schools
- MacArthur High School (NEISD) has strong AP programs and serves Stone Oak families
- Both districts have active military family liaison programs
Things to Do Near San Antonio
Local favorites for dining, outdoor adventures, and entertainment in the San Antonio area.
The most visited historic site in Texas — just minutes from Fort Sam Houston and an essential experience for every family stationed here.
The iconic 15-mile urban waterway lined with restaurants, bars, and hotels — a vibrant outdoor promenade in the heart of San Antonio.
Converted historic brewery complex that is now SA's premier dining and shopping neighborhood, with James Beard-nominated restaurants.
Major theme park with rollercoasters and a waterpark — military discount programs make this very accessible for Army families.
Upscale outdoor shopping and dining complex in northwest San Antonio with stunning Hill Country views.
Texas's largest natural caverns, just north of San Antonio — a spectacular underground adventure for the whole family.
Housing & Cost of Living
San Antonio is the most affordable large city in Texas for military families. Fort Sam's location in central SA is convenient. JBSA's multiple installations keep demand steady, but inventory is generally healthy.
Popular neighborhoods to consider:
PCS Tips for Fort Sam Houston
- Contact the installation housing office early — wait lists can be long.
- Check BAH rates at the official DoD BAH calculator before setting your home budget.
- Get VA pre-approved before your PCS orders — it helps you move fast in competitive markets.
- Military-friendly real estate markets near bases can move quickly — be ready to act.