If you’re a first-time homebuyer looking for a friendly, safe, and convenient community near San Antonio, Hollywood Park might just be your perfect match.
Tucked about 15 miles north of Downtown, this cozy suburb offers excellent schools, low crime rates, and a welcoming, small-town feel – all without sacrificing access to city life.
In this guide, we’ll explore what makes Hollywood Park shine, compare it to nearby areas, and show you why it’s a top pick for anyone new to the home buying process.
What Makes Hollywood Park a Top San Antonio Suburb?
Hollywood Park offers first-time buyers a rare combination of peaceful living, strong schools, and quick city access.
It stands out for its close-knit community, high safety ratings, and easy commute. Whether you have a growing family or simply want to settle in a serene neighborhood, you’ll find plenty of reasons to call this suburb home.
A Snapshot of Hollywood Park
Founded in the 1950s, Hollywood Park blends historic charm with modern amenities in just 1.5 square miles.
Established in 1954, Hollywood Park began as a rural escape. Today, it’s a thriving suburb in Bexar County, offering big-tree-lined streets and well-kept homes. You’re near Downtown San Antonio’s excitement but still get a calm, neighborhood feel.
Key Reasons Hollywood Park Stands Out
1. Exceptional Safety Record
Hollywood Park’s low crime rate provides first-time homebuyers with peace of mind.
According to the most recent data available (2023), Hollywood Park sees just 1.2 incidents per 1,000 residents, far below the national average. Violent crime is even rarer, around 0.3 per 1,000 people. That’s a huge bonus for first-time homebuyers wanting a secure place to live.
2. Top-Rated Schools
Located in the highly regarded North East Independent School District (NEISD), Hollywood Park’s schools are a major draw.
Families love that Hollywood Park is served by NEISD, one of Texas’s best public school districts. Schools like Hidden Forest Elementary boast an A+ rating, and Bradley Middle School plus Churchill High School continue that standard, so parents can rest assured their kids are getting a quality education.
3. Proximity to San Antonio
Enjoy suburban calm while staying just 20 minutes from Downtown San Antonio.
With quick access to Highway 281, you can be in the heart of the city for a Spurs game or a stroll along the River Walk in no time. This balance of suburban tranquility and urban excitement makes Hollywood Park a prime spot for first-time buyers who want both.
4. Affordable Living with Upscale Appeal
Hollywood Park offers a range of home prices in a desirable setting.
Based on the latest data, the median home price here is around $375,000. That’s lower than pricier suburbs like Alamo Heights but still offers the upscale charm many homebuyers seek. From classic ranch-style homes to newer constructions, you’ll find options to fit different budgets.
Comparing Hollywood Park to Other San Antonio Suburbs
Below is a quick look at how Hollywood Park measures up against nearby communities. (Data from 2024.)
| Suburb | Median Home Price | Crime Rate (per 1,000) | Commute to Downtown (min) | School Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hollywood Park | $375,000 | 1.2 | 20 | A+ |
| Alamo Heights | $600,000 | 2.1 | 15 | A |
| Shavano Park | $750,000 | 1.0 | 25 | A+ |
| Castle Hills | $325,000 | 3.5 | 18 | B+ |
Hollywood Park hits the sweet spot: safe, affordable, and close to San Antonio’s amenities.
Living in Hollywood Park: What to Expect
Get ready for a friendly vibe, community events, and easy access to parks – ideal for first-time buyers settling in.
Moving to Hollywood Park means you’ll see neighbors walking dogs on quiet streets, join fun local events like the annual Deer Day Festival, and enjoy a welcoming homeowners association that helps keep the area well-maintained.
Outdoor Spaces and Recreation
Short Answer: Hollywood Park may be small, but it packs in relaxing parks and trails.
Voigt Park: Offers walking trails among oak and pecan trees, perfect for a morning jog or an evening stroll.
Community Garden: Grow fresh vegetables and meet other green-thumbed residents.
If you love spending time outdoors, Hollywood Park’s natural spaces bring you plenty of reasons to step outside and breathe in the fresh air.
Community Vibe
You’ll quickly feel at home in Hollywood Park’s warm, neighborly atmosphere.
Residents describe Hollywood Park as a place where people truly look out for each other. The local Homeowners Association organizes community cleanups and social gatherings, helping newcomers build friendships and find support.
Real Estate in Hollywood Park: Buying or Renting
Mostly single-family homes on spacious lots, with some rentals available. Hollywood Park’s housing market features ranch-style homes from the 1960s alongside modern builds.
Buying is more common here, but a few rental properties exist if you’re not quite ready for a mortgage. Expect rents to start around $1,800 per month for a three-bedroom.
Buying a Home: Step-by-Step
Especially for first-time homebuyers, the process can seem complicated. Here’s a simple roadmap:
Set Your Budget
Figure out how much you can comfortably afford. In Hollywood Park, a solid family home often ranges $350,000-$400,000.Explore Listings
Browse local real estate listings or your favorite home search site for Hollywood Park properties.Visit in Person
Drive around the neighborhood and check out open houses. Pay attention to commute times, local shops, and overall feel.Work with a Local Agent
A professional can help you find hidden gems and negotiate the best deal.Close the Deal
Once your offer is accepted, it usually takes 30-45 days to finalize and get your keys.
Home Type Comparison
| Home Type | Price Range | Avg. Size (sq ft) | Lot Size (acres) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ranch-Style | $250,000–$350,000 | 1,800 | 0.3–0.5 |
| Modern Single-Family | $400,000–$600,000 | 2,500 | 0.5–0.75 |
Who Should Move to Hollywood Park?
If you want a safe, peaceful environment and quality schools, Hollywood Park has you covered.
Families: Top-rated schools and quiet streets
Retirees: A laid-back vibe and strong community spirit
Young Professionals: Short commute to the city, but prefer a house over an apartment
If nightlife and apartment living are priorities, Downtown San Antonio might be a better fit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the crime rate in Hollywood Park, TX?
It’s very low. Recent data (2023) shows 1.2 incidents per 1,000 residents, with violent crime at only 0.3 per 1,000.How far is Hollywood Park from San Antonio?
It’s about 15 miles north, roughly a 20-minute drive via Highway 281.What schools serve Hollywood Park?
The North East ISD, featuring A+ schools like Hidden Forest Elementary, Bradley Middle, and Churchill High.Is Hollywood Park a good place to raise a family?
Yes. Safety, top-notch schools, and community events make it ideal for families.What’s the cost of living in Hollywood Park?
Moderately priced. Homes average $375,000. Typical utilities cost $150-$200/month, with groceries similar to broader San Antonio rates.Are there parks or trails in Hollywood Park?
Absolutely. Voigt Park is popular for its walking trails, and the Community Garden is great for meeting neighbors.How’s the real estate market in Hollywood Park?
It’s stable and growing. The median home price reached $375,000 in 2024, reflecting a steady increase.What’s the community like in Hollywood Park?
Warm and neighborly. The active HOA and local events, like Deer Day, help everyone connect quickly.
Hollywood Park’s Challenges (And Why They Don’t Outweigh the Pros)
Minor inconveniences like traffic and limited nearby shopping are overshadowed by the suburb’s benefits.
Traffic: Highway 281 can get busy at rush hour, so plan your commute wisely.
Local Shops: You may have to drive a bit further to bigger shopping centers in nearby Stone Oak.
Despite these small downsides, Hollywood Park’s safety, affordability, and community spirit more than make up for it.
Why Hollywood Park Wins as a San Antonio Suburb
Hollywood Park delivers almost everything a first-time homebuyer could want: reliable safety, highly rated schools, and a location that’s both peaceful and close to the city’s best attractions. The affordability here—compared to other upscale suburbs—creates a sweet spot for many budgets. Combine that with an engaged community and you’ll see why so many people are proud to call Hollywood Park home.
8 Key Takeaways
Low Crime: Rates remain well below the national average.
Great Schools: Hollywood Park belongs to North East ISD, known for academic excellence.
Convenient Commute: Just a 20-minute drive to Downtown San Antonio.
Varied Home Styles: Choose from classic ranches to modern builds.
Community Events: Engage with neighbors at festivals and HOA gatherings.
Outdoor Recreation: Voigt Park and the Community Garden offer green escapes.
Stable Market: Home values in Hollywood Park continue to rise steadily.
Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Safe, welcoming streets make it ideal for newcomers.
