AI-Scored Rankings • Updated 2026-04-03

Best Apartments in Waco, TX — Scored by AI

ListWise scores every Waco neighborhood on safety, walkability, schools, commute time, and rental value. See which areas actually match your lifestyle — not just what's cheapest.

$1,100/mo
Median Rent
142,654
Population
8
Neighborhoods Scored
Baylor University
Top Employer
Local Insights

Why Waco? What Renters Need to Know

Waco is very affordable with a cost of living about 15% below the national average. Median rent is around $1,100/month.

Quick Facts

Population 142,654
Median Rent $1,100/mo
Top Employer Baylor University
Neighborhoods 8 scored by AI
Rent vs. National$1,100 vs $1,500 national median

Rent Comparison

Waco median rent is $400 below the national median of $1,500/mo — an affordable market.

Largest Employer

The largest employer in Waco is Baylor University, making the Woodway area and nearby neighborhoods popular for commuters looking to minimize travel time.

Top Neighborhoods

Top Neighborhoods in Waco

Ranked by ListWise's composite AI score. Top 3 shown free — unlock all 8 for the full picture.

#1

Woodway

Score: 86/100
Safety A+
Walk Score 28
Avg Rent $1,300
Schools 9/10
#2

Castle Heights

Score: 84/100
Safety A
Walk Score 55
Avg Rent $1,200
Schools 7/10
#3

Downtown Waco

Score: 82/100
Safety B+
Walk Score 75
Avg Rent $1,150
Schools 6/10

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#4

Hewitt

Score: 80/100
Safety A+
Walk Score 25
Avg Rent $1,200
Schools 8/10
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#5

China Spring

Score: 78/100
Safety A+
Walk Score 15
Avg Rent $1,150
Schools 8/10
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#6

Midway

Score: 76/100
Safety A
Walk Score 20
Avg Rent $1,100
Schools 8/10
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#7

Bosqueville

Score: 74/100
Safety A
Walk Score 12
Avg Rent $1,050
Schools 7/10
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#8

South Waco

Score: 72/100
Safety B
Walk Score 42
Avg Rent $900
Schools 6/10
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See All 8 Waco Neighborhoods Ranked

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How It Works

How ListWise Scores Waco Apartments

1

Tell Us Your Priorities

Rank what matters: safety, schools, walkability, commute, budget, nightlife. Every Waco renter is different.

2

AI Scores Every Listing

We pull real-time data from MLS, crime stats, school ratings, transit APIs, and walk score databases for Waco.

3

Get Your Ranked List

Receive a PDF + Excel report with Waco properties ranked by YOUR priorities. Delivered within 24 hours.

FAQ

Frequently Asked About Waco

What is the cost of living in Waco, TX?

Waco is very affordable with a cost of living about 15% below the national average. Median rent is around $1,100/month. No state income tax.

Has Waco changed because of Magnolia/Fixer Upper?

Significantly. Chip and Joanna Gaines' Magnolia brand has revitalized downtown, attracted tourism, and boosted property values, especially near the Silos.

What are the best neighborhoods?

Woodway and Hewitt have the best schools and safety. Castle Heights is historic and walkable. China Spring offers rural charm.

How far is Waco from Austin and Dallas?

Waco is roughly equidistant between Austin (100 miles south) and Dallas (96 miles north) on I-35. About 1.5 hours to either city.

How is the job market?

Baylor University, L3Harris Technologies, SpaceX (McGregor test facility nearby), healthcare, and tourism (Magnolia) drive employment.

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Data is for informational purposes only. Verify all information independently before making housing decisions.