Alamo Heights is one of the most fiscally productive neighborhoods in the San Antonio region. With a median home sale price of $566,000 and a long-standing reputation as a highly desirable place to live, it generates an impressive amount of tax revenue per acre. Its established street grid, mature trees, and walkable blocks contribute to its appeal, but also to its underlying financial efficiency.
Urban3’s analysis shows that Alamo Heights benefits from a strong return on infrastructure investment. Roads, utilities, and public services are delivered efficiently thanks to its relatively compact form and existing investment. However, this fiscal success isn’t being fully captured by the tax system. Properties here are regularly underassessed, with a median sale ratio of 0.98 — meaning many residents are paying less in taxes than their homes are worth.
That underassessment, when scaled citywide, shifts the tax burden to neighborhoods with lower property values. In fact, 36% of homes in Alamo Heights were underassessed in 2023, while only 25% were overassessed. This is not necessarily the fault of residents, but it is a systemic issue that results in inequity across the city.
Historically, Alamo Heights was labeled “Blue” on federal redlining maps — a signal to investors that it was “still desirable.” These legacies of preferential treatment continue to shape its modern financial landscape. High-value neighborhoods continue to enjoy stable investment, favorable assessments, and strong public perception.
Urban3’s data makes clear that Alamo Heights is an example of what financially productive development looks like — but also a reminder of the need for fair assessments and equity-minded fiscal policy.