Is Universal City TX a good place to live? Living in Universal City is undoubtedly great; of the many cities near San Antonio, Universal Texas is a notable option. It’s a small city with proximity to downtown San Antonio and other great Lone Star State cities, including Schertz, Cibolo, Converse, Selma, and Live Oak. I
If you’re interested in living in a city near San Antonio TX, with ample job opportunities, easy access to larger metro areas, good schools, friendly neighborhoods, and more, then Universal City Texas is for you. Explore more with our moving to Universal City TX guide!
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What Is Universal City Texas Known for?
Universal City, Texas, is known for its vibrant attractions and rich history. It features the Olympia Hills Golf Course, Duggan Diving, Ticket Sports Bar and Grill, The Pawn Pub, Randolph AFB Skate Park, and Universal City Park. Founded in 1931 and incorporated in 1960, Universal City is 65 years old.
It was named by developer Aubrey Milner to highlight the universal importance of the nearby Randolph Air Force Base. Its beginnings trace back to farmland purchased in 1929 in anticipation of the base’s construction. The Universal City Hall was built in March 1962, and its first post office popped up in 1970.
If relocating to Universal City or any other San Antonio suburb is in your future, let 2 College Brothers provide you with the best San Antonio movers! Call us today at (210) 874-7010 for a free estimate.
Where Is Universal City?
What county is Universal City TX in? Located in Bexar and Guadalupe Counties, within the San Antonio Metropolitan Statistical Area, this lovely suburb is a place for families and young professionals alike. It’s 18.2 miles from Universal City TX to San Antonio TX.
Universal City Texas Population & Demographics
With a population of 19,720 and a population increase of 1.6% since 2010, Universal City TX is a growing city. According to data provided by Census Reporter, the median age is 35.3, with 56% of its population being 39 or younger, making Universal City a family favorite. Although the median household income is $75,439 (slightly below the US median), its affordable cost of living balances the lower income intake. If living in Universal City is in your future, you want to know as much about its demographics as possible!
Additional demographic information:
- Sex ratio: 51 females to 49 males
- Average household size: 2.6
- Number of households: 7,555
- Number of housing units: 7,770
- 67% single family homes
- 32% multi-units
- 1% mobile homes
- Marital status: 52% married, 48% unmarried
- Moved here since last year: 17.2%
- Educational attainment:
- High school diplomas: 95.5%
- Bachelors degrees: 33.3%
- Post-grad degrees: 12%
- Foreign-born population: 8.7%
- Veteran status: 14.5%
Universal City has a diverse racial and ethnic makeup. 60% of residents are White (42.4% non-Hispanic or Latino), and 42.2% are Hispanic or Latino. Like the rest of Texas, Universal City has a notably high Hispanic or Latino population. 20.4% of people living in Universal City are two or more races, and 10.1% are Black or African American. 2.5% are Asian, 0.4% are Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islanders, and 0.1% are American Indian and Alaska Native.
Another important factor to consider is the area’s crime rate before moving to Universal City TX is its safety.
Is Universal City Safe?
According to the FBI, Universal City has a crime rate that’s 8.3% higher than the state and 27.3% higher than the country.
- Universal City crime rate per 100,000 people: 2,959
- Texas crime rate per 100,000 people: 2,732
- US crime rate per 100,000 people: 2,324
With that being said, Universal City experiences virtually no violent crime. Its violent crime rate is 27.8% lower than the state and 15.6% lower than the country. There is a 1 in 321 chance you will be affected by violent crime when living in Universal City.
- Universal City violent crime rate per 100,000 people: 312
- Texas violent crime rate per 100,000 people: 432
- US violent crime rate per 100,000 people: 370
Its property crime rates follow a similar trend to its overall crime rate – 15.1% higher than the state and 35.5% higher than the country. The most common type of property crime committed here is larceny-theft (398 total instances), and the most uncommon is arson, with only three total arson crimes reported in the past year.
- Universal City property crime rate per 100,000 people: 2,648
- Texas property crime rate per 100,000 people: 2,300
- US property crime rate per 100,000 people: 1,954
Universal City has a very low violent crime rate and boasts countless safe neighborhoods to reside in. They also have a dedicated police department (Universal City Police Department) with 28 officers, averaging one officer per 1,000 residents.
Cost of Living in Universal City TX
The Cost of Living Index in Universal City is 83, making it 17% more affordable than the average US city. Housing is 34% lower, utilities are 6%, and groceries are 11%.
Universal City is even more affordable compared to other Texas cities:
- San Antonio Cost of Living Index: 91
- Houston Cost of Living Index: 94
- Austin Cost of Living Index: 98
Typical *Universal City living expenses:
- Inexpensive restaurant meal: $17.50
- Gallon of milk: $3.80
- Pound of white rice: $2.21
- Dozen eggs: 3.03
- Loaf of white bread: $2.75
- Average Universal City utilities per month: $276 (per Doxo)
Source: Numbeo
*The above figures are for San Antonio, so prices may differ when living in Universal City.
Your Universal City water bill will depend on how much water you use. If you use between 6,000 and 9,999 gallons and live within the city limits, you will pay $3.89 per 1,000 gallons.
According to the Economic Policy Institute, a family of four can live comfortably in Bexar County with a household income of $91,111.
Universal City TX Real Estate Market
The real estate market in Universal City is somewhat competitive, but that’s likely due to its affordability. The median sale price is $287,500, and the average price per square foot is $138. Houses for sale in Universal City TX sit on the market for a median of 54 days, and 11.1% sell above its listing price. If living in Universal City is in your future, don’t miss your chance to snag a house that’s roughly $132,900 less than the average US home.
Renting here is another option; the average rent in Universal City is $1,126 for a 767 square-foot-rental. Sagebrush Apartments is a notable option for those looking for Universal City TX apartments.
Whether you’re buying a house in San Antonio or Universal City, call 2 College Brothers at (210) 874-7010 to handle your move.
Neighborhoods to Consider When Living in Universal City
All Universal City residents enjoy the city’s prime location, friendly neighbors, and abundance of walking trails and outdoor activities. However, living in Universal City won’t be nearly as enjoyable if you don’t find your dream neighborhood.
Cimarron Cove – Affordable Community
With a median home price of $260,000, Cimarron is an excellent option. Homes can range from 1,400 to over 2,000 square feet, accommodating a variety of household sizes. It’s located near Randolph AF Base and the Live Oak Municipal Park, providing optimal positioning.
Forum Creek – Affluent Neighborhood
Forum Creek is a larger neighborhood in a more affluent area of Universal City, hence the higher median price-point of $395,000. Residents adore its proximity to Olympia Hill (roughly 1.2 miles) and easy access to Interstate 35 (2.2 miles). Forum Creek is a commuter dream community!
Meadow Oaks – Ideal for Renters
Meadow Oaks hosts the notable Meadow Oaks Park and various affordable homes, condos, and apartments. If you’re a renter, Meadow Oaks is the place to be. The average price per square foot here is only $45.29, meaning a small budget is no issue.
Universal City Weather & Climate
Like San Antonio’s climate, Universal City is a transitional, humid, subtropical (Koppen Dfa). The summers are hot, with an average daily high of 89 degrees, but in the warmest month (August), you can expect temperatures in the high 90s most days. The winters are most enjoyable here, with an average daily low of only 43 degrees. This area only experiences 2-4 inches of snow every 10 years or so. However, snowfall in southern Texas is extremely unpredictable, as there was a snowstorm in San Antonio in 1985 where 13 inches of snow fell.
According to WeatherSparks, the best time to visit Universal City TX is mid-May to late September; the temperatures are hot, but it allows you to experience the city’s many outdoor attractions. Plus, you avoid the rainy season, which settles in June, July, and August, picking up again in September.
Things to Do in Universal City
If you’re looking for a strong sense of community, shopping options galore, and plenty of parks to explore, living in Universal City is for you. Universal Square Shopping Center is the town’s notable shopping center, but you’re also located within 5 miles of The Forum at Olympia Parkway and Rolling Oak Mall; most residents get their everyday essentials at the community’s Walmart.
Red Horse Park
Everyone is welcome at Red Horse Park—dogs, kids, families—you name it, and there is something for everyone to enjoy here. The walking trails are its main attractions, but the disc golf course, basketball court, and playground are also beloved features.
1100 North Blvd, Universal City, TX 78148, (210) 658-5364
Universal City Park
If you’re looking for things to do in Universal City TX, consider one of the best Universal City parks. This pet-friendly park is ideal for the whole family, as there’s ample green space to explore, baseball fields, walking paths, a volleyball court, and more!
305 North Blvd, Universal City, TX 78148, (210) 658-5364
Duggan Diving
People living in Universal City look to Duggan Diving when they’re looking to try something new or refresh their diving skills. Whether you’re an avid aquanaut or are a first-timer, you’ll have a blast at this Universal City attraction.
2617 Pat Booker Rd Suite 101, Universal City, TX 78148, (210) 658-7495
Additional Attractions & Things to Do
Something else to check out when living in Universal City is community events, which you can find by browsing the Universal City Parks and Recreation special events calendar.
Universal City Restaurants
TX Universal City has tons of delicious dining options. While it’s not known for a specific food type, you’ll find many tasty spots to explore when living in Universal City.
Taco Cabana
Stop by this vibrant chain to indulge in classic Mexican cuisine. It is beloved for its homemade salsa, tortillas, and unique dishes such as cheese enchiladas and breakfast burritos.
1533 Pat Booker Rd, Universal City, TX 78148, (210) 659-6606
L&L Hawaiian Barbecue PB
Try something you can’t find everywhere; L&L, one of the top restaurants Universal City, serves Hawaiian BBQ that’s unique to any other BBQ in the Lone Star State. Their chicken katsu, loco moco, and musubi are its most popular dishes.
1645 Pat Booker Rd Suite 101, Universal City, TX 78148, (210) 236-8431
Four Kings
Do you want to try one of the best restaurants in Universal City? Four Kings offers classic sandwiches and cozy soups galore. Its walls are draped with local artwork, making it a unique and picturesque hangout spot.
2047 Universal City Blvd, Universal City, TX 78148, (210) 687-6649
Jobs in Universal City TX – Universal City TX Economy Overview
Thanks to Universal City’s economic development committee, the city has a growing economy tailored to meet the needs of local businesses and big corporations planning to make Universal City their new home.
Universal City, TX’s primary industries are retail trade (1,387), healthcare and social assistance, construction, and mining. If you want a job in the city’s industry, Its major employers are H-E-B (headquarters in San Antonio), Baptist Health System, and Toyota Motor Manufacturing. Forbes recently ranked Baptist Health System as one of the best employers in the US, and Toyota employs more than 3,700 people in the San Antonio metro area.
There are plenty of Universal City jobs in varying industries. If you work in the public sector, it’s key to consider City of Universal City jobs, as government jobs offer good pay and unbeatable benefit packages.
Before living in Universal City is feasible, you must consider your lifestyle and whether your income will support you. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, San Antonio-New Braunfels, TX, residents earn a median hourly wage of $21.34.
Universal City Schools
The city of Universal City boasts excellent public and private school options and proximity to top universities. Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City Independent School District schools are some of the best in the area, as it’s a B-rated district. Brian P Steele Ii High School recently received the College Success Award in honor of adequately preparing their students for college. According to US News, 100% of their teachers are certified.
Colleges
The nearest colleges to Universal City Texas are Northeast Lakeview College and Judson Early College Academy. For additional educational resources, consider the Universal City Library; it hosts many educational events and offers incentives like free wifi and computer access.
Universal City Statistics & Information
- County: Bexar and Guadalupe Counties
- Universal City area: 5.59 square miles
- Universal City zip code(s): 78148, 78154
Universal City area code(s): 210, 726 - Universal elevation: 764 feet
- Universal City time zone: Central Time Zone (UTC-5 and -6)
- Closest airport to Universal City: San Antonio International Airport (SAT) is 12.7 miles from Universal City
Universal City Map
Explore more of this peaceful town with this map of Universal City TX.
Moving to Universal City TX With 2 College Brothers
Seeking a quiet option away from the hustle and bustle of San Antonio with all the necessary amenities? Look no further than living in Universal City! It’s a great, affordable place to live–what more could you want from your new home? If you decide that relocating here is your next step, call 2 College Brothers, the best Universal City movers, at (210) 874-7010 for a free estimate.
