At the heart of Central Texas, Waco is a flourishing city with a booming downtown area, a growing job market, nationally recognized sites, attractions, and picturesque natural beauty. These days, it seems like everyone is moving to Texas, and the Waco real estate market presents an exciting opportunity to own a home in one of the state’s best cities. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about moving to Waco.
Waco is conveniently located in Central Texas, making travel accessible to Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston, San Antonio, and the city of Austin.
The overall cost of living in Waco is about 10% lower than the national average. With housing expenses 18% lower than the national average, Waco is a great place to rent or buy a home. The median home price is $235,000, and the median rent is $885. There are numerous housing options, including single-family homes, condos, townhomes, luxury golf course estates, and waterfront homes.
Transportation expenses, including gas prices and bus and taxi fares, are 3% lower than the national average. With lots of variety and fees 17% below the national average, you won’t need to sweat over your food and grocery expenses. You can also feel better about staying well with healthcare costs 7% lower than the national average.
Waco Job Market
The Waco job market is growing, with more companies moving to the area every year. Some Fortune 500 and other well-known companies have headquarters, offices, or plants in and around Waco, including Curves International, Time Manufacturing, Mars Chocolate, Coca-Cola, Hilton, Dillards, Amazon, Pilgrim’s Pride, Sanderson Farms, and SpaceX. Some of the largest employers in Waco are Baylor University, Curves International, Texas State Technical College, City of Waco, American Income Life Insurance, and Time Manufacturing.
Things to Do in Waco
Waco is a fun and picturesque city situated on Lake Waco and the Brazos and Bosque Rivers. Chip and Joanna Gaines may have helped put it on the map and highlight the many things to do and see in Waco.
There are a host of museums, including the Dr. Pepper Museum, the Texas Rangers Hall of Fame and Museum, the Mayborn Museum Complex, the Martin Museum of Art, and the McCulloch House Museum. You can also expand your historical knowledge by visiting Waco Mammoth National Monument, the Texas Sports Hall of Fame, the Armstrong Browning Library, Lev’s Gathering Place, the Lee Lockwood Library and Museum, and the Waco Suspension Bridge. You can make some new furry friends at the Cameron Park Zoo and Bill and Eva Williams Bear Habitat. You can dine, shop, and learn a new skill at Homestead Heritage Craft Village. And you can visit one of the most popular tourist attractions in town, the Magnolia Market at the Silos.
Outdoor Activities in Waco
It’s common knowledge that Texas summers are hot, but Waco’s parks system offers many ways to cool off or have some fun in the sun. Lake Waco is the perfect place for sailing, fishing, hiking, or relaxing. The Brazos River, which runs through the north part of Waco, is another panoramic venue for fishing and kayaking, or you can take a walk on the Cotton Belt Trail and enjoy the picturesque views of the South Bosque River. Cameron Park, loved by the locals, offers a championship disc golf course and 20 miles of multi-use trails for walking, hiking, and biking. You can get wet and wild on those warm summer days at Hawaiian Falls Water Park or at the free spray pads located in six different parks throughout the city.
Nightlife in Waco
There is plenty to explore on a night out in Waco if you know where to look. Barnett’s Public House and BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse stay open late on Friday and Saturday night if you want food and drinks. If you’re looking for live music and entertainment, The Backyard Stage and Grill features a concert stage, 40′ outdoor screen, a rooftop deck, and games. If you’re in the mood for live music and dancing, boot-scoot your way to the Melody Ranch, a true Texas honky-tonk with the largest dance floor in Central Texas. If you’re itching to cheer on your favorite team, head to Bubba’s 33, Half-Time Restaurant & Bar, or Buffalo Wild Wings. For a swankier date night experience, visit Austin’s on the Avenue or Blue Dog Wine & Martini Bar. There are plenty of places to have fun when the sun sets in Waco.
Schools in Waco
Five school districts serve K-12 students in and around Waco: Waco ISD, Midway ISD, LaVega ISD, China Spring ISD, and Bosqueville ISD. Waco ISD is the primary school district with more than 15,000 students. They offer a wide variety of curriculum through their five magnet schools and academic and extracurricular programs. The other four districts serve parts of Waco and the surrounding communities and offer a range of programs, including college and career readiness.
Waco is a mid-sized city with the optimal blend of small-city charm and big-city amenities. That combination makes it a must-see destination in the heart of Texas. With its scenic vistas, fun activities, comfortable climate, and abundance of opportunities, Waco is one of the best places to move to in the United States and a wonderful place to call home.
