Converse, Texas is the northeast San Antonio corridor’s most affordable established community — and for military families, first-time buyers, and value-conscious buyers who need to be near JBSA, that affordability advantage is genuinely significant. Positioned approximately 13 miles northeast of downtown San Antonio and directly adjacent to Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph, Converse sits at the practical midpoint between Randolph AFB and Fort Sam Houston — making it one of the most strategically located communities in the metro for dual-military households and northeast corridor professionals. With median home prices in the mid-$240,000s to low $270,000s, population growth up 51% since 2010, and a community culture shaped by its strong military identity, Converse delivers accessible homeownership in a location that few northeast communities can match at this price point. This complete guide covers everything buyers need to know about living in Converse.
Written by Brock Bremmer, U.S. Air Force Reserves Veteran | Real Estate Agent | eXp Realty | San Antonio Metro Area
Serving Converse, Universal City, Live Oak, Schertz, Cibolo, and the Northeast San Antonio Corridor
Converse, TX at a Glance
| Population | ~24,000+ — up 51% since 2010, one of the fastest-growing cities in the metro |
| Location | 13 miles northeast of downtown San Antonio, adjacent to JBSA-Randolph |
| County | Bexar County |
| School District | Judson ISD — serving Converse and the northeast corridor |
| Median home price | $243,635–$274,960 (2025–2026, varies by source) |
| Average home price (HAR, Sept 2025) | $274,960 at ~$153/sq ft |
| Median listing price (Movoto, Nov 2025) | $273,000 |
| Median sale price (Redfin, Jul 2025) | $246,000 — down 4.8% YOY |
| Average days on market | 65–72 days |
| 1BR average rent | ~$1,039/month — among the most affordable in the metro |
| Distance to Randolph AFB | ~5–10 minutes — adjacent community |
| Distance to Fort Sam Houston | ~20–30 minutes via I-35 or Loop 410 |
| Distance to downtown SA | ~13 miles / 20–30 minutes via Loop 410 or I-35 |
| Property tax rate | Bexar County ~2.2%–2.7% — factor carefully into budget |
Why Converse Has Grown 51% Since 2010
Converse’s growth story is driven by a simple and powerful combination: it’s the most affordable established community in direct proximity to JBSA-Randolph, and it sits almost exactly between Randolph and Fort Sam Houston on the northeast corridor. For military families — the dominant buyer demographic in Converse — that positioning is difficult to beat.
The 51% population growth since 2010 reflects consistent demand from military families at nearby JBSA installations, civilian employees in the northeast San Antonio employment corridor, and first-time buyers who need Northeast ISD-adjacent school quality at the most accessible price point available in an established community. Converse isn’t growing because of a single employer or a master-planned community development — it’s growing because it fills a genuine gap in the northeast corridor market: established neighborhoods, functional schools, and near-JBSA access at prices starting well below $250,000.
Compared to neighboring Schertz (median $350,000–$415,000) and Cibolo (median $317,000–$424,000), Converse offers $70,000–$180,000 in purchase price savings at the median — a difference that translates directly into more accessible monthly payments and lower down payment requirements for entry-level buyers.
Converse Neighborhoods and Communities
Converse encompasses a range of established neighborhoods, each with distinct character and price positioning. Here’s what buyers will find:
Northampton
One of Converse’s most popular and well-regarded established neighborhoods — known for peaceful streets, proximity to Converse City Park, and a quiet residential atmosphere that makes daily life genuinely comfortable. Judson ISD schools serve the area. A practical choice for families and buyers who value established neighborhood character over newer construction amenities. Prices generally in the $220,000–$280,000 range for resale.
Horizon Pointe
Among Converse’s newer construction options — homes feature modern floor plans, energy-efficient designs, and a commuter-friendly location with easy Loop 1604 and FM 78 access. Popular with buyers who want newer construction at Converse’s accessible price points. Judson ISD. Prices generally in the $250,000–$330,000 range depending on plan and finishes.
Ventura
An established community with larger lots than many comparable Converse neighborhoods — a good fit for families who want more yard space and the feel of a more spacious residential environment. Judson ISD. Resale prices generally in the $220,000–$290,000 range. Strong community culture with active neighborhood associations.
Knox Ridge
One of Converse’s newer build areas with fast access to major shopping along the FM 78 and Loop 1604 corridors. Appeals to buyers who want new construction convenience and everyday retail close at hand. Judson ISD. Entry-level plans starting in the $260,000s. Strong for first-time buyers who want new construction at accessible prices in the northeast corridor.
Cimarron and Quiet Creek
Two of Converse’s established neighborhoods known for calm streets and a welcoming neighborhood culture. Both Judson ISD. Particularly popular with military families who value community connection — the buy-in price is among the lowest in Converse for established, functional neighborhoods. Prices typically starting around $200,000 for older resale.
Kendall Brook and Established Central Neighborhoods
Converse’s central established neighborhoods — older construction from the 1990s and early 2000s, often featuring larger lots than newer subdivisions and lower prices per square foot. Entry-level buyers can find well-maintained 3-bedroom homes starting in the high $180,000s to low $200,000s in these areas — the most accessible price points in any established northeast corridor community.
Home Prices in Converse
Converse is the most affordably priced established community in the northeast San Antonio corridor — and current market conditions give buyers additional leverage on top of already-accessible prices:
- Redfin median sale price (Jul 2025): $246,000 — down 4.8% year-over-year
- Movoto median listing price (Nov 2025): $273,000
- HAR average home price (Sept 2025): $274,960 at ~$153/sq ft
- WalletInvestor median value (May 2026): $243,635 — reflecting ongoing price correction
- Days on market: 65–72 days — buyers have time and negotiating room
- Price trend: Down approximately 4.8%–5% year-over-year — prices have corrected meaningfully from 2022–2023 peak, creating one of the strongest entry-point windows in recent years
- Entry-level access: Well-maintained 3-bedroom homes available from the high $180,000s in established central neighborhoods — the lowest barrier to entry of any established community in the northeast corridor
The income required to buy in Converse: At the $273,000 median with 25% down, monthly expenses run approximately $1,750 — requiring approximately $60,200 annual household income at 35% of income toward housing. With a lower down payment (FHA at 3.5% or VA at 0%), the income requirement adjusts with the higher payment. This accessibility makes Converse one of the few established northeast corridor communities where E-5 through O-3 military pay grades can comfortably purchase without stretching the budget.
Bexar County property tax note: Converse falls entirely within Bexar County, which carries a higher effective property tax rate (~2.2%–2.7%) than neighboring Guadalupe County communities like Schertz. On a $250,000 home, that’s approximately $5,500–$6,750 per year in property taxes — factor this into your total monthly budget calculation. See our San Antonio property tax guide for the complete breakdown.
Want to know exactly what your budget gets you in Converse right now? Contact Brock Bremmer at eXp Realty for a free market analysis.
Schools in Converse
Converse is served by Judson Independent School District — a mid-sized northeast San Antonio district that serves Converse, Universal City, and portions of the surrounding area.
- District character: A functional, community-oriented district with strong military family support infrastructure — not surprising given the heavy military population it serves
- Elementary schools: Multiple Judson ISD campuses serve Converse neighborhoods — including Converse Elementary and other campuses along the FM 78 corridor
- Middle schools: Judson Middle School and other Judson ISD campuses serving Converse
- High schools: Judson High School — the district’s flagship campus, well-regarded for athletics and has a strong community following
- Honest comparison: Judson ISD is not ranked at the same level as SCUCISD (serving Schertz and Cibolo) or North East ISD (Stone Oak). It’s a solid working district that serves its community well — but families for whom school district ranking is the primary decision factor often choose Schertz or Cibolo at higher price points. Families whose priority is proximity to Randolph AFB at an accessible price often find Judson ISD entirely adequate for their needs
Verify exact campus assignments for specific addresses at judsonisd.org.
Commute Times from Converse
Converse’s northeast location is its most practical asset — it sits at the intersection of the two major JBSA installations that anchor the northeast corridor.
- JBSA-Randolph: 5–10 minutes — Converse is the adjacent community to Randolph’s western boundary. For Randolph families, this is one of the shortest off-base commutes available in an established neighborhood
- Fort Sam Houston (JBSA-Fort Sam): 20–30 minutes via Loop 410 or I-35 — excellent for Fort Sam families
- SAMMC (Brooke Army Medical Center): 20–25 minutes — very manageable for medical staff
- Dual-military households (Randolph + Fort Sam): Converse is the geographic midpoint — 5–10 min to Randolph and 20–30 min to Fort Sam. For dual-military households split between these two installations, Converse’s midpoint positioning is difficult to beat anywhere in the northeast corridor
- Downtown San Antonio: 20–30 minutes via Loop 410 West or I-35 South — very manageable for daily commuters
- The Forum at Olympia Parkway (Schertz retail): 10–15 minutes
- New Braunfels: 25–35 minutes via I-35 North
- San Antonio International Airport: 20–30 minutes via Loop 410
- JBSA-Lackland: 35–45 minutes — Converse is not well-positioned for Lackland; Alamo Ranch serves that installation far better
The dual-JBSA advantage in real terms: San Antonio has thousands of dual-military households where one partner is at Randolph and another is at Fort Sam. Finding an affordable community that’s within 30 minutes of both installations is genuinely difficult — Converse is the answer that most dual-JBSA families land on when they run the math honestly. The VA military buyer guide covers the full installation commute analysis for all five JBSA bases.
Lifestyle and Things to Do in Converse
Converse is a residential community first — its lifestyle centers on its community events, proximity to northeast San Antonio’s retail and recreation corridor, and the distinctly military-family-oriented culture that shapes neighborhood life.
Community Events
Converse has a surprisingly active community events calendar for its size:
- Night In Ole Converse: Annual community celebration that brings residents together with food, entertainment, and family activities — a genuine small-town community gathering point
- 2nd Saturday Art Festival: Monthly arts and crafts market on Converse’s second Saturday — a growing local tradition
- Great Texas Airshow at JBSA-Randolph: The annual airshow at Randolph is a beloved community event that Converse residents are literally next door to — a unique perk of the location
Converse City Park
The community’s primary outdoor gathering space — sports fields, playgrounds, walking paths, and green space that serve as the neighborhood’s social anchor. Active youth sports leagues use the park year-round.
Northeast San Antonio Retail Corridor
The FM 78 and Loop 1604 corridors adjacent to Converse provide solid everyday retail — major grocery stores, casual dining, and everyday services are accessible within 10–15 minutes. The Forum at Olympia Parkway in Schertz (15 minutes away) provides a more complete retail and dining experience. Downtown San Antonio is 20–30 minutes for major entertainment and cultural attractions.
JBSA-Randolph Community Resources
One of the underappreciated advantages of living adjacent to a major military installation: Converse residents who are active duty, veteran, or eligible family members have access to Randolph’s commissary, exchange, fitness facilities, and community programs — resources that represent meaningful quality-of-life and financial value for military households.
Pros and Cons of Living in Converse
Pros
- Most affordable established community near Randolph: Median prices $70,000–$180,000 below Schertz and Cibolo at comparable distances — the value proposition is genuine and significant
- Unmatched dual-JBSA positioning: 5–10 minutes to Randolph, 20–30 minutes to Fort Sam — the best combined commute for dual-military households in the metro
- Short Randolph commute: For single-installation Randolph families, Converse offers the shortest off-base commute of any established neighborhood
- Strong military community culture: Sellers, builders, and the broader community are very familiar with VA financing — VA buyers face minimal friction here
- Rapid growth trajectory: 51% population growth since 2010 supports long-term appreciation fundamentals
- Entry-level access: 3-bedroom homes available from the high $180,000s — the lowest barrier to entry of any established northeast corridor community
- Reasonable downtown commute: 20–30 minutes to downtown SA is more accessible than most Hill Country or far-northwest alternatives
Cons
- Judson ISD vs SCUCISD: Families who prioritize school district ranking will find SCUCISD (Schertz/Cibolo) meaningfully stronger — the school district trade-off is real and worth acknowledging honestly
- Bexar County property taxes: The ~2.2%–2.7% effective rate is higher than Guadalupe County (Schertz) or Comal County (New Braunfels, Bulverde). On a $250,000 home, that’s meaningful — verify your specific address’s combined rate
- Limited premium amenities: Converse doesn’t have the resort pools, fitness centers, and master-planned community infrastructure of Schertz’s The Crossvine or Alamo Ranch — it’s a functional residential community, not a lifestyle destination
- Older housing stock in affordable tiers: Entry-level homes in the $180,000s–$220,000s range are older construction — buyers should budget for deferred maintenance and potential updates
- Car-dependent: Like all northeast corridor communities, a car is required for virtually all daily activities
Who Is Converse Best For?
Brock Bremmer works throughout the northeast corridor, and Converse attracts a very specific and well-defined buyer profile:
- Randolph AFB families who want the shortest possible off-base commute — 5–10 minutes is unmatched anywhere else in an established neighborhood at this price point
- Dual-military households split between Randolph and Fort Sam — Converse’s midpoint geography solves a logistical problem that most communities can’t address at this price level
- First-time buyers using VA loans or FHA who need the most accessible entry price in an established northeast community — the mid-$240,000s median with entry points in the high $180,000s serves this profile well
- Military buyers whose BAH drives the budget — Converse’s mid-$200,000s pricing aligns well with E-5 through O-3 BAH at JBSA rates, making zero-down VA purchases financially comfortable at rank levels where Schertz or Cibolo would stretch the budget
- Northeast corridor professionals who need a short Fort Sam or downtown SA commute at the most accessible price point
Converse is a harder fit for families who rank school district quality as the top priority (choose Schertz or Cibolo), buyers who want resort-style community amenities (Schertz’s The Crossvine is a better fit), or buyers who can stretch their budget meaningfully and prefer SCUCISD’s stronger ratings.
Converse vs Schertz vs Universal City: Quick Comparison
| Factor | Converse | Schertz | Universal City |
| Median price | $243,000–$274,000 | $350,000–$415,000 | $230,000–$265,000 |
| School district | Judson ISD | SCUCISD (stronger) | Judson ISD (same) |
| Randolph commute | 5–10 min | 15–25 min | 3–8 min — closest |
| Fort Sam commute | 20–30 min | 25–35 min | 25–35 min |
| Community amenities | Standard residential | Master-planned resort | Standard residential |
| New construction | Limited — primarily resale | Active pipeline | Very limited |
| Best for | Dual-JBSA families, VA buyers on budget, Randolph short commute | Families prioritizing schools and amenities | Absolute shortest Randolph commute, lowest prices |
The simple guide: Universal City for the absolute shortest Randolph commute at the lowest prices (but even less amenities than Converse). Converse for the best dual-JBSA positioning and slightly more community character than Universal City. Schertz when SCUCISD school quality and master-planned amenities are worth the $70,000–$170,000 premium. Brock helps buyers run this comparison against their specific budget and priorities — schedule a free consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions: Living in Converse, TX
Is Converse, TX a good place to live?
Yes — Converse is a practical, affordable, and genuinely community-oriented city that serves its primary demographic well. For military families near Randolph AFB, first-time buyers on tight budgets, and dual-JBSA households, Converse consistently delivers. The trade-offs versus higher-priced northeast communities are real — Judson ISD ranks below SCUCISD, and community amenities are more basic than master-planned Schertz. Buyers who approach Converse with realistic expectations and the right priorities consistently find it a strong long-term choice.
What are home prices like in Converse, TX?
Converse is the most affordable established community near JBSA-Randolph. The median sale price was approximately $246,000 as of July 2025 (Redfin), down 4.8% year-over-year. HAR data for September 2025 shows an average home price of $274,960 at $153/sq ft. Entry-level well-maintained homes start in the high $180,000s in established central neighborhoods. With 65–72 days on market, buyers have genuine negotiating leverage in the current environment.
What school district serves Converse?
Converse is served by Judson Independent School District (Judson ISD). The district is a functional community-serving district with strong military family support infrastructure. Judson High School is the flagship high school. Families for whom school district ranking is the primary decision factor often choose Schertz (SCUCISD) at higher price points; families prioritizing Randolph AFB proximity at accessible prices generally find Judson ISD adequate. Verify campus assignments at judsonisd.org.
How far is Converse from Randolph AFB?
Converse is adjacent to JBSA-Randolph — approximately 5–10 minutes from the base’s main gate depending on which part of Converse you’re in. This is one of the shortest off-base commutes available in any established neighborhood near Randolph. VA loans are widely used throughout Converse and sellers are very familiar with VA financing.
Is Converse good for dual-military families?
Yes — Converse is arguably the best community in the entire northeast corridor for dual-military households split between Randolph AFB and Fort Sam Houston. At approximately 5–10 minutes to Randolph and 20–30 minutes to Fort Sam, Converse provides a practical midpoint that minimizes total combined commute time for households at both installations. At median prices in the mid-$240,000s, it does so at the most accessible price point of any established community with this positioning.
How does Converse compare to Schertz for military families?
The choice comes down to budget vs. school quality and amenities. Converse offers $70,000–$170,000 less at the median, shorter Randolph commute times (5–10 min vs 15–25 min), and the best dual-JBSA positioning in the corridor. Schertz offers SCUCISD’s stronger school district, master-planned community amenities (particularly The Crossvine), and lower Guadalupe County property tax rates. Families with budget flexibility and school priorities as a top criterion typically choose Schertz; families on tighter budgets or with the shortest Randolph commute as the priority typically choose Converse.
Ready to Buy a Home in Converse, TX?
Converse delivers the most accessible entry point into the northeast San Antonio corridor — with genuine dual-JBSA positioning, a strong military community culture, and prices well below its neighboring communities. Brock Bremmer with eXp Realty, a U.S. Air Force Reserves veteran, works with VA buyers and military families throughout Converse and the entire northeast corridor. Whether you’re PCSing to Randolph or Fort Sam, buying your first home with a VA or FHA loan, or comparing Converse to Schertz and Cibolo, Brock is ready to help you make the right decision for your family and your budget.
- 📞 Call or text: 210-501-5088
- 📧 Email: [email protected]
- 🌐 Website: brockbremmer.com
- 📅 Schedule a free consultation — no pressure, no obligation
Brock Bremmer | U.S. Air Force Reserves Veteran | eXp Realty
Serving Converse, Universal City, Live Oak, Schertz, Cibolo, and the Northeast San Antonio Corridor
Also see: Living in Schertz | Living in Cibolo | VA Buyer Guide | Military Buyer Guide