Explore the elevation of San Antonio—rising 650 feet above sea level, this culturally rich Texas city blends Spanish colonial history with modern charm and military significance.

Table of Contents

Where is San Antonio?

  • Location: San Antonio is situated in the southern part of Texas.
  • Area: Covers over 465 square miles.

City Profile

  • Population: Over 1.5 million in the city and 2.4 million+ in the metro area.
  • Size rank: 7th most populated city in the U.S.
  • Texas rank: 2nd largest city in Texas, behind Houston.

Elevation Basics

  • Elevation: San Antonio sits at 650 feet (198 m) above sea level.
  • Founding year: Established in 1718 as a Spanish mission; first chartered in 1731.
  • Name origin: Named for Saint Anthony of Padua.
  • Military importance: Home to Fort Sam Houston and Lackland Air Force Base.
  • Historic growth: Rebuilt and expanded after the Texas Revolution and Mexican-American War.

Must-Know Elevation Facts

  • Elevation meaning: Indicates how high a location is above sea level.
  • State average comparison: Texas average is 1,700 feet (520 m), so San Antonio is below average.
  • Compared to other U.S. cities: Higher than Houston (80 ft) and New York City (33 ft), but lower than many inland cities.
  • Highest point in Texas: Guadalupe Peak – 8,751 feet (2,667 m).
  • Lowest point: Gulf of Mexico at sea level.
  • Highest city in Texas: Fort Davis – 4,900 feet (1,494 m).
  • Other city comparisons:
    • Austin: 489 feet (149 m)
    • Dallas: 430 feet (131 m)
    • Houston: 80 feet (32 m)

Climate and Tourism

  • Climate: Transitional humid subtropical—long, hot summers and mild winters.
  • Coldest month: January – average highs of 63°F (17°C).
  • Hottest month: August – average highs of 96°F (36°C).
  • Elevation and weather: Lower elevation contributes to mild winters and hot summers.
  • Famous attractions:
    • The Alamo
    • San Antonio Missions
    • San Antonio River Walk
    • Marriage Island
    • Six Flags Fiesta Texas
    • San Antonio Spurs NBA team
  • For animal lovers: San Antonio Zoo, SeaWorld.
  • Cultural experiences: Museums, theaters, galleries, cathedrals, and arts centers throughout the city.

Plan Your Trip