Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
Median Income: $66,579
Population: 478,961
Median Income: $53,420
Population: 1,547,253
When comparing Colorado Springs and San Antonio, the overall cost of living differs by 15.7%. Colorado Springs carries a cost index of 102 compared to San Antonio's 86, meaning your dollar stretches 16% further in San Antonio.
Housing is where the most significant gap appears between these two cities. San Antonio has a housing index of 78 compared to Colorado Springs's 108. This 30-point difference translates to substantial monthly savings on rent or mortgage payments in San Antonio.
Colorado Springs is more affordable for: Utilities.
San Antonio is more affordable for: Housing, Food & Groceries, Transportation, Healthcare, Entertainment, Taxes.
If you earn $60,000 in Colorado Springs, you would need $50,588 in San Antonio to maintain the same standard of living. For a $100,000 salary, the equivalent would be $84,314.
The median household income in Colorado Springs is $66,579 compared to $53,420 in San Antonio. While Colorado Springs has higher incomes, the higher cost of living may offset this advantage.
Safety: Colorado Springs scores 7/10 while San Antonio scores 6/10 in our safety assessment.
Weather: Colorado Springs has an edge in climate with a 7/10 weather score compared to San Antonio's 6/10.
Job Market: Colorado Springs's job market (7/10) is stronger than San Antonio's (6/10).
San Antonio is the more affordable option overall, but cost is just one factor in deciding where to live. Consider your career opportunities, family needs, and lifestyle preferences alongside the financial comparison. Colorado Springs may justify its higher costs with unique cultural amenities that many residents find worthwhile.