New Braunfels combines German heritage with modern Texas living at the confluence of the Guadalupe and Comal Rivers. The historic Gruene District features Texas' oldest dance hall, Gruene Hall, which continues to host live music performances. Residents enjoy tubing and kayaking on both rivers, while Landa Park's 51 acres provide walking trails, playgrounds, and access to Comal Springs. The dining scene reflects the city's cultural diversity, from upscale steaks at Myron's Prime Steakhouse to German fare at Krause's Cafe's biergarten.
The housing market includes a range of options with median prices at $365,000 for single family homes, $354,000 for townhomes, and $315,000 for one bedroom condos. The Gruene neighborhood, known for single family homes, has a median price of $367,000. Property taxes in Comal County stand at 1.21%, lower than neighboring areas like Bexar County at 1.81% and Travis County at 1.54%. Texas residents benefit from no state income tax, though they pay a combined 8.20% sales tax.
The city's education system includes several A rated schools. Hoffmann Lane Elementary School and Church Hill Middle School serve the Gruene area, while private options include New Braunfels Christian Academy. Commuters appreciate the location 30 miles from San Antonio and 45 miles from Austin, with San Antonio International Airport reachable in 35 minutes. The Connection provides limited public bus service, though most residents rely on personal vehicles. Major employers span healthcare, manufacturing, and tourism sectors, with additional job opportunities in nearby San Antonio and Austin.
