BALCONES HEIGHTS

Though considered by many to be simply a district in central west San Antonio, Balcones Heights is truly an entity of its own. As an enclave city, Balcones Heights fosters a Texas sense of independence, southern hospitality, and community togetherness. Balcones Heights is home to approximately 3,000 residents and encompasses just less than one square mile. The city’s motto espouses their desire to create a “wholesome and friendly environment, excellent law enforcement and fire protection, safe and enjoyable parks, and community events and activities.” Though a small city in its own right, Balcones Heights’ central location (just inside Loop 410 at the intersection of I-10) allows for incredibly convenient access to the surrounding “big city”. Residents are only 9 miles from downtown San Antonio, the River Walk and Alamo; 2 miles from the South Texas Medical Center; 12 miles from Sea World; and 9 miles from Six Flags Fiesta Texas . For a small town of less than one square mile, the amenities and attractions in Balcones Heights are astounding…mostly due to the local shopping, medical, and entertainment mecca known as Wonderland of the Americas. True to its name, this indoor shopping mall was the first of its kind in the metro area, still paving the way for a new kind of shopping experience today. Besides being a place to score great deals, Wonderland of the Americas offers a full medical center (including family counseling, internal medicine, dental services, etc.), shops and boutiques, a cinema, and an entertainment venue. The amphitheater hosts special events like the Balcones Heights Jazz Festival, live painting, novelty children’s’ camps (including Star Wars and Hogwarts!), and cultural festivals. Other area amenities include the local Methodist hospital, Laddie Place park development, and proximity to the Oak Hills Golf Course Mostly served by the San Antonio Independent School District, Balcones Heights is also located literally at the intersection of Northside Independent School District and North East Independent School District. Students are generally zoned to SAISD’s Baskin Academy or Maverick Elementary, Longfellow Middle School, and the historic Jefferson High School. The portion of the city served by NEISD is zoned to Dellview Elementary School, Jackson Middle School, and Lee High School. The area is marked by academic excellence and high graduation rates. In the private sector, St. Gregory the Great Catholic School offers an alternative to public school. As an established neighborhood, Balcones Heights is home to a great deal of established residents, making the neighborhood feel even more like a small town. The neighborhood streets are lined with many mid-century modern homes, both stylishly updated and well-preserved. The low cost of living and neighborhood draw has attracted mostly families, couples, and retirees to Balcones Heights. The area’s median listing price is $151,000, but homes can range from $79,000 to the upper $200,000s.