Forest Hills, San Marcos,TX

If you’re considering a move to San Marcos, TX, the Forest Hills neighborhood in the southeast part of the city is definitely worth checking out. This charming community is known for its peaceful, suburban vibe combined with convenient access to a variety of local amenities. Residents love the neighborhood’s mature trees and well-maintained homes, which create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re a young professional, a family, or someone looking to settle into a quieter area, Forest Hills offers a balanced lifestyle with easy access to shopping centers, parks, and dining options.

One of the standout attractions near Forest Hills is Purgatory Creek Natural Area, a beautiful spot perfect for hiking, bird watching, and enjoying the outdoors. It’s a favorite among locals who appreciate having green space close to home. Additionally, the nearby San Marcos Premium Outlets provide a fantastic shopping experience with a wide variety of brand-name stores just a short drive away. For those who enjoy dining out, the southeast San Marcos area is dotted with cozy cafes and restaurants offering everything from Texas barbecue to international cuisine. This neighborhood offers the perfect blend of tranquility and convenience, making it an appealing choice for newcomers to the city.

Getting to Downtown San Marcos from Forest Hills is a breeze, typically only taking about 10-15 minutes by car. This close proximity means residents can easily enjoy the vibrant downtown scene, including local festivals, farmers markets, and the historic San Marcos Square with its unique shops and eateries. Whether you’re commuting to work or meeting friends for a night out, the quick access to the heart of the city adds to the appeal of Forest Hills. Overall, this neighborhood combines a comfortable living environment with easy access to everything that makes San Marcos a great place to call home.

About 13% of the Forest Hills population aged 16 and older are married, which is notably lower than average. This could suggest a community with a younger, more transient population—perhaps made up of students, professionals, or renters. It may also reflect a neighborhood that attracts singles or couples without children, contributing to a more independent, urban lifestyle.

With only 5% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Forest Hills demographics offer valuable insights into the character and lifestyle of the neighborhood, helping you understand who lives there and what daily life might feel like. Home to only about 880 residents, Forest Hills is notably smaller than many other San Marcos neighborhoods, creating a more peaceful and community-oriented atmosphere. Its lower population can translate to quieter streets, a more relaxed pace of life, and easier access to local amenities — all without sacrificing the vibrant urban lifestyle the city is known for.

Forest Hills has a population density of 3,187, which strikes a balanced feel when compared to other San Marcos neighborhoods. The area offers just the right mix of activity and breathing room, creating a community that’s lively yet comfortable, with easy access to amenities and everyday conveniences.

With a lower-than-average age of 23, you're likely to find a noticeably youthful energy and vibrant atmosphere. This younger population brings a dynamic mix of activity, innovation, and community involvement, shaping a neighborhood that feels lively, forward-thinking, and full of opportunity — making it an especially appealing choice for younger adults looking for an active and engaging community.

The Forest Hills crime map uses detailed block group boundaries from address-based crime data to visualize crime patterns across the neighborhood, highlighting both low-crime zones and areas with higher levels of reported crime. This crime heat map helps paint a clearer picture of local safety trends, showing how crime can vary from one part of the community to another. Keep in mind that areas with higher activity on the map don’t always equate to dangerous conditions — locations near entertainment districts, major roads, or tourist destinations often see more reports simply due to the larger number of people passing through.

Housing prices can reveal a lot about the balance and overall appeal of a neighborhood. In Forest Hills, the median home price is about $305,250, which is on par with many comparable areas. This average pricing reflects a stable, affordable housing market and makes the neighborhood an appealing choice for a wide range of buyers seeking both value and long-term potential. Examining how home prices and appreciation rates in Forest Hills have shifted over time can reveal important clues about the neighborhood’s future value. These trends help potential buyers and investors understand market momentum and determine whether the area is likely to deliver strong returns over the long term.

The median rent is around $1,139, which is on par with many comparable neighborhoods. This balanced pricing offers a mix of affordability and value, making it a practical choice for a wide range of renters.

School ratings in Forest Hills combine factors like student performance, graduation rates, and standardized test scores to provide a clear picture of overall educational quality. The use of NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores adds valuable context by offering a consistent national benchmark to see how local schools compare on a broader scale. Additionally, understanding the overall education level achieved by residents in Forest Hills can give insight into the community’s priorities and opportunities, helping families make more informed decisions about where to live and how well local schools may support long-term student success.