New to San Antonio: looking for nice area with apartments close to shopping and nightlife (Houston: neighborhoods)

[Benstin86]

I just got a job in San Antonio near the Alamo plaza/downtown and was wondering what area/neighborhood is popular amongst young people. I am a single male 22 years old who will be moving into a 1 bedroom apartment. I don't mind commuting 30 minutes or so. I like a convenient area where I can get to the grocery, gym, bank etc. all in about 5 minutes. I like to go out to bars/clubs on weekends so I like areas that have nightlife as well. Does anyone have any suggestions as to what area would most fit my needs?

[dvlpr]

If you like suburbia (new construction, chain shopping/bars/restaurants), Stone Oak or I-10/1604 is for you. You should know that traffic is pretty gnarly out there, and is going to get a lot worse. The Quarry area (Jones-Maltsberger/281) also might work - there are several large apartments there.

If you like historic neighborhoods (independent businesses, great architecture, creative people), King William/Southtown, Monte Vista, Mahncke Park, Alamo Heights are all good options. Aside from being more authentic, all of these neighborhoods are very close to your work (you could easily ride a bike or take the bus).

Welcome to SA - good luck!

[ATXSA]

dvlpr is right on the Quarry area. You may want to check in on that. Great proximity to everything. You'd be next to 281 which is great for your commute and just getting around the city in general (especially downtown). Broadway and St. Mary's are a stones throw away and have some good bars to pick from. As for shopping you have Central Market on Broadway, and you have HEB on Basse and Nacodoches (my personal favorite). Banks are everywhere in that area. As for gyms, there is a Ballys in the Quarry itself. Hope this helps.

[Benstin86]

Thanks everyone for the great advice. Is the quarry and surrounding areas heavily populated by military due to its close proximity to Ft. Sam Houston? Also is the best bet for finding apartments on craigslist or through a rent.com type of web page?

[ashbeeigh]

The area you are working in is very close to the King William/Southtown/Lavaca area. That's a pretty hip area. Check that out too. Depending on your price range you'll find something nice there. Widen your perimeter if you can't find what you want in that area to the Alamo Heights, Monte Vista, Alta Vista, Woodlawn area then. Last shot would be to go out to 1604//10 or 1604/281 just because the commute is a pain in the butt (from my own personal experience).

I do not think that you can really put a label on the surrounding area of Fort Sam, I'm sure there are lots of military people in that area, I stopped counting at 5 when I went out for lunch that way a few days ago. But, San Antonio is a military town so there will be military people all over the place.

As far as craigslist and rent.com, I've found some good things there, I haven't actually contacted anyone about it.

[hoaloha]

Originally Posted by Benstin86

Thanks everyone for the great advice. Is the quarry and surrounding areas heavily populated by military due to its close proximity to Ft. Sam Houston? Also is the best bet for finding apartments on craigslist or through a rent.com type of web page?

The Quarry isn't "heavily populated" with military personnel. It's more of a college-yuppie-Whole Foods type of place. Lots of shopping, a gym, movie theater, grocery stores, bars. It is a nice central location.

Another area is I-10 around Huebner, lots of college students, med students, young professionals. Good luck.