Welcome to Waco
A friendly, affordable student city in central Texas
USD 16,000–32,000/year
Annual tuition fees
USD 1,000–1,700/month
Monthly living costs
Why study in Waco
Waco offers a welcoming, small-city experience with big opportunities for students. Located between Dallas and Austin, it’s home to well-respected universities and a growing student population. You’ll benefit from lower living costs, a strong sense of community, and access to both academic and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re studying in the library or kayaking on the Brazos River, Waco gives you the space to learn, grow, and enjoy student life without the stress of a large city.
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Student life
Life in Waco is relaxed and community-oriented. You’ll enjoy quiet study spaces, beautiful parks, and plenty of student events on campus. The city’s low cost of living makes budgeting easier, and public transport helps you get around with ease. When you’re not studying, you can explore farmers’ markets, museums, or attend live music nights in the city centre. Students love the balance Waco offers—calm enough to concentrate, active enough to keep life interesting.
Avg. wage per hour
Max. allowed part-time hours
Cost of living
- Food: USD 300–500/month
- Rent: USD 500–900/month
- Household Bills: USD 100–200/month
- Transport: USD 60–100/month
- Miscellaneous: USD 100–200/month
Accommodation choices
- University accommodation
- Private halls
- Shared houses
- Private/Studio apartments
- Rental houses
Most opted part-time jobs
- Tutor
- Barista
- Retail assistant
- Receptionist
- Office clerk
Public transport
- Bus
- Train
- Shared taxi
- Bike sharing
- Metro
Edvoy Stays
Let’s help you find budget-friendly student housing in Waco
CULTURE
Waco’s culture is welcoming, relaxed, and rooted in Texan traditions. You’ll find a community that values education, diversity, and creativity. The city hosts seasonal events, food festivals, and student nights that bring everyone together. You’ll also find a growing arts and music scene, along with historic sites and cultural centres. For international students, Waco is a great place to experience American culture in an accessible, friendly environment.
SAFETY
Waco is considered safe, especially in university and student housing areas. Emergency services are responsive—dial 911 for emergencies. For non-emergencies, you can contact the Waco Police Department at (254) 750-7500. University campuses have dedicated security teams and offer safety apps and shuttle services.
Discover the city
Waco blends natural beauty, rich history, and a growing student presence. From riverside walks to museum visits, the city offers lots to explore between study sessions. It’s small enough to feel personal, but large enough to offer everything you need—cafés, study spaces, and career opportunities. Its location makes weekend getaways to Dallas, Austin, or Houston easy, and the sunny climate supports an active, outdoor lifestyle all year round.
Language
English
Currency
USD
Population
140K
Area
263 sq. km
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, Waco is an excellent choice if you want strong academics, a close-knit community, and affordable living. The city is peaceful, welcoming, and full of student support services.
Waco is one of the more affordable student cities in Texas. Rent, food, and entertainment are reasonably priced, helping you stick to your budget. Many students share housing to save even more.
It’s relaxed, friendly, and focused on both academics and wellbeing. You’ll have access to parks, cafés, study spaces, and community events, making it easy to stay engaged.
Yes, Waco is located between Dallas and Austin, so weekend trips or internships in larger cities are easy. The bus and train network make regional travel convenient for students.
