Are you a first-time homebuyer curious about where to live in Converse, Texas? You’re in good company. Three neighborhoods often rise to the top—Northampton, Ventura, and Horizon Pointe—thanks to their comfortable home prices, proximity to good schools (Judson ISD), and family-friendly amenities like parks and pools.
Whether you’re starting a new chapter with your family, beginning your professional journey, or simply wanting a quieter spot close to San Antonio, Converse could be the perfect place to call home.
Let’s explore each neighborhood so you can find the one that fits you best.
Why Converse Is Worth a Look
Converse is located about 15 miles northeast of San Antonio. That means you get convenient city access but still enjoy a calmer, suburban atmosphere.
As of the 2024 Census, around 29,000 people live here, with a median household income of roughly $77,000. According to NeighborhoodScout, the median home price in Converse sits around $271,000, making it an appealing option for first-time homebuyers on a budget.
Converse is also close to Randolph Air Force Base (AFB) and Fort Sam Houston, which is a big plus for military families or anyone who commutes to those bases.
The city has plenty of parks, shopping spots, and casual dining options. One first-time buyer purchased a home here for $290,000 and has been thrilled with both the neighborhood feel and the short commute to downtown San Antonio.
The Best Converse Neighborhoods
You might be wondering how we picked the “best” neighborhoods in Converse. We looked at:
Home Prices: Affordable ranges, typically $250,000–$350,000
School Quality: Judson ISD, known for above-average graduation rates
Safety: Crime rates about 9% below the national average (Source: AreaVibes)
Lifestyle Perks: Parks, trails, restaurants, and coffee shops
Future Growth: A 5% projected home value increase by 2025, according to Redfin data
In simple terms, these neighborhoods combine affordability, a good school district, and potential for solid resale value—important factors for any first-time homebuyer.
Northampton: Affordable Family Living
Search homes for sale in Northampton, in Converse, TX
Northampton offers a lot of value for your money. Families especially love the proximity to parks and good schools. For example, one homeowner bought a 3-bedroom house for around $280,000 with monthly mortgage payments near $1,200. They enjoy easy access to picnics at Converse City Park and a family-friendly atmosphere.
Price Range: $250,000–$300,000
Home Style: Mostly 3- to 4-bedroom properties built after 2000
Nearby Park: Converse City Park with playgrounds, walking trails, and ponds
School District: Judson ISD, boasting about a 90% graduation rate
What You’ll Find
Homes: Modern, cozy 3- or 4-bedroom layouts in the $250,000–$290,000 range
Community Perks: Converse City Park (no entrance fee) for outdoor fun
Commute: Around 20 minutes to San Antonio via Loop 1604
Daily Life Here
Picture kids riding bikes to the park after school while you pick up fresh tacos from a local eatery. If you’re looking for an affordable neighborhood that still feels warm and welcoming, Northampton is a strong candidate.
Ventura: Spacious and Suburban
If you want a bit more elbow room, Ventura might be just the place. Buyers here appreciate the suburban feel and the spacious yards. One family paid $330,000 for a 4-bedroom home, with an estimated $1,400 monthly mortgage payment. Thanks to modest annual appreciation (around 5%), they’ve seen about $15,000 in equity gain within a year.
Price Range: $300,000–$350,000
Home Style: Larger homes on bigger lots, often built from the 1970s to the 1990s
Nearby Park: Memorial Park with basketball courts, open fields, and plenty of space for sports
School District: Part of Judson ISD, known for solid academic prep
What’s Around
Homes: 4- to 5-bedroom properties averaging $300,000–$340,000, often with classic architecture
Amenities: Access to Memorial Park (no entrance fee) for sports and outdoor activities
Schools: Judson Middle and High Schools, each with around a 90% graduation rate
The Vibe
Ventura has the space to host backyard barbecues and the convenience of nearby shops and restaurants off FM 1976. If you have a growing family, pets, or just love a bigger yard, this neighborhood might be your perfect fit.
Horizon Pointe: Modern and Amenity-Rich
Search homes for sale in Horizon Pointe
Horizon Pointe stands out for its newer construction and resort-like community amenities. A first-time military homebuyer found a 3-bedroom property here for around $310,000. With an estimated $1,300 monthly mortgage, they love the shared pool and quick commute to Randolph AFB.
Price Range: $280,000–$350,000
Home Style: Newer builds (mostly post-2000) with open layouts
Community Perks: A shared pool, playgrounds, and walking trails
School District: Judson ISD, with schools close by
What You Get
Homes: Modern 3- to 4-bedroom layouts ranging from $290,000–$340,000
Extras: A community pool and trails, typically covered by low or no HOA fees
Access: A short 15-minute drive to Randolph AFB via FM 1518
Living Here
Imagine coming home from work and cooling off in the community pool or taking an evening jog around well-maintained trails. If you want a fresh, modern feel and amenities within walking distance, Horizon Pointe is worth a look.
Neighborhood Price Comparison
| Neighborhood | Avg Home Price | Beds/Baths | Top Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northampton | $270K | 3–4 / 2–3 | Converse City Park |
| Ventura | $320K | 4–5 / 2–3 | Memorial Park |
| Horizon Pointe | $310K | 3–4 / 2–3 | Community Pool & Trails |
Quick Tip: Use this table to match your budget and must-have features. For example, if you want the newest homes, Horizon Pointe might appeal most. If you prefer larger lots, Ventura could be the right call.
Schools That Make the Move Easy
One of the biggest draws for first-time homebuyers is the Judson Independent School District (ISD). This district boasts schools like Judson High with a 90% graduation rate and Salinas Elementary, which GreatSchools.org rates around 8/10. By choosing a neighborhood in Judson ISD, you may avoid the extra expense of private schooling. A family in Ventura purchased a $300,000 home and has been thrilled with Judson Middle for their child’s college prep.
Helpful Resource: For the latest school ratings, visit the Judson ISD official website.
Parks and Outdoor Fun
Converse City Park: Located near Northampton, offering trails, ponds, and playgrounds at no cost.
North Park: Close to Horizon Pointe, featuring ball fields, a pool (about $5 for a swim day), and open green spaces.
Memorial Park: Adjacent to Ventura, with basketball courts and large fields for sports.
If you’re someone who loves morning jogs, weekend picnics, or simple family fun outdoors, these parks can be game-changers. One homeowner in Horizon Pointe says a quick jog on the trails each evening has been fantastic for their health.
Shopping and Dining Nearby
FM 78 is a local hub for shopping and restaurants. You’ll find options like Walmart Supercenter for a convenient $50 grocery run and Bayseas Restaurant for a delicious $15 seafood plate.
Northampton: Close to Salsa’s Café, where you can grab tacos for around $10.
Ventura & Horizon Pointe: Easily reach North Park shops and a handful of local coffee spots (about $5 per cup).
A homeowner in Northampton with a $1,200 monthly mortgage payment says the variety of quick, affordable eats has been a real plus for their busy schedule.
Commute and Amenities
| Neighborhood | Commute to San Antonio | Top Amenity | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northampton | ~20 mins | Converse City Park | $250K–$300K |
| Ventura | ~15 mins | Memorial Park | $300K–$350K |
| Horizon Pointe | ~18 mins | Community Pool & Trails | $280K–$350K |
Note: Actual commute times can vary depending on traffic. If you work in downtown San Antonio or at Randolph AFB, check typical drive times during rush hour.
Home Price Trends in Converse
The median home price in Converse is about $271,000 (NeighborhoodScout). Over the last year, prices stayed fairly level, but Redfin and other sources predict around 5% growth by 2025. That means if you buy a $300,000 home today, it could be worth around $315,000 within a year or so—giving you a quick $15,000 in equity.
Northampton: $270,000 average, stable value
Ventura: $320,000 average, known for steady appreciation
Horizon Pointe: $310,000 average, popular for modern builds
Safety That Feels Right
Converse boasts a crime rate about 9% below the national average (AreaVibes). Each neighborhood has its own vibe, but generally, residents feel comfortable letting kids play outside, walking their dogs, or enjoying an evening stroll. For example, Ventura’s quieter streets and Horizon Pointe’s gated-like layout enhance that sense of security many first-time homebuyers crave.
Why it’s the Time to Move
Potential 5% Home Value Increase: A $300,000 home could gain $15,000 in equity.
Mortgage Rates: Currently around 5.5% for many borrowers, which may be lower than some conventional rates near 7%. Even a percentage point difference can save you hundreds of dollars a month.
Strong Community Appeal: Parks, reputable schools, and a close-knit vibe help maintain Converse’s popularity—and keep home values stable.
For example, a couple who recently bought in Northampton for $290,000 already sees about $12,000 in home equity. They mention it was the perfect time for them to invest in a home.
Challenges to Watch For
No place is perfect. Here are a few things to keep on your radar:
Northampton: Some smaller lots might feel cramped if you’re looking for more outdoor space.
Ventura: Older construction may require extra upkeep or an additional $20,000 for renovations.
Horizon Pointe: Being near Randolph AFB can mean occasional jet noise during daytime hours.
Traffic: FM 1518 can back up, turning a 15-minute commute into a 20-minute drive.
These issues aren’t deal-breakers for most residents, but it’s good to be aware before making your decision.
Real Stories from Converse
$280K in Northampton: A $1,200 monthly mortgage, steps away from the park—ideal for a growing family.
$330K in Ventura: Gained $15,000 in equity within a year, with a spacious yard for backyard parties.
$310K in Horizon Pointe: Military family enjoying community pool days and a quick commute to Randolph AFB.
$290K Fixer-Upper: Spent $20,000 on renovations, but already seeing about $12,000 in increased home value.
Picking Your Converse Spot
Northampton: Typically around $270,000, family-friendly, near parks and schools.
Ventura: Averages $320,000, larger lots, suburban setting.
Horizon Pointe: Around $310,000, modern builds, excellent community amenities.
Most homes range from $250,000 to $350,000, translating to roughly $1,200–$1,400 in monthly mortgage payments, depending on your down payment and interest rate. One Horizon Pointe buyer who spent $305,000 says the $1,300 monthly payment is well worth the convenient pool and good schools.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the median home price in Converse, TX? As of recent data, the median sale price of a home in Converse is approximately $260,000, reflecting a 6.1% increase from the previous year.
How are property taxes determined in Converse? Property taxes are based on the appraised value set by the Bexar Appraisal District. Various exemptions, such as homestead or senior exemptions, can reduce this value. Taxes are due annually by January 31st.
What are the benefits of living in Converse? Converse offers affordable housing, a strong sense of community, and proximity to San Antonio's amenities. The cost of living is lower than the national average, enhancing its appeal.
How does Converse's proximity to San Antonio affect commuting? Located about 15 miles northeast of downtown San Antonio, Converse provides a suburban lifestyle with convenient access to the city's employment centers and attractions.
What should I know about the local school districts? Converse is served by the Judson Independent School District, known for its commitment to quality education and a variety of programs catering to diverse student needs.
Are there any specific considerations for first-time homebuyers in Converse? First-time buyers should assess their budget, secure mortgage pre-approval, and work with a local real estate agent familiar with the Converse market to navigate the home-buying process effectively.
What is the crime rate in Converse? Converse has a higher crime rate than the national average, with 31 incidents per 1,000 residents. However, the city has dedicated public safety services to help protect its residents.
What types of housing options are available in Converse? The city offers a variety of housing options, including single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments, catering to different preferences and budgets.
How competitive is the Converse housing market? The Converse housing market is somewhat competitive, with homes typically receiving two offers and selling in about 73 days.
Are there any environmental concerns or natural disaster risks in Converse? Converse has a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters. While not immune to natural disasters, it doesn't have a higher risk than other areas in Texas.
Next Steps for First-Time Homebuyers
Set a Budget: Review your finances, check your credit score, and speak with a lender to see what mortgage amount fits comfortably into your monthly budget.
Explore Neighborhoods: Visit Northampton, Ventura, and Horizon Pointe in person. Stroll through parks, chat with residents, and get a feel for each community.
Compare Amenities: Think about what matters most—park access, yard size, or a community pool.
Research Schools: If you have kids, look into specific Judson ISD campuses. Check out their website for up-to-date info.
The Bottom Line
Converse, Texas has quickly become a hot spot for first-time homebuyers looking for a balance of affordability, reliable schools, and a friendly community atmosphere.
By focusing on neighborhoods like Northampton, Ventura, and Horizon Pointe, you can find a home in the $250,000–$350,000 range, build equity over time, and enjoy the perks of suburban living just a short drive from San Antonio.
If you’re ready to take the leap, gather your financial details, connect with a knowledgeable agent, and explore these neighborhoods firsthand. You might just discover that Converse is the ideal place to plant your roots and enjoy life to the fullest.
