Baylor, Waco,TX

If you're considering a move to Waco, TX, the Baylor neighborhood in the north west part of the city is definitely worth exploring. Known for its close ties to Baylor University, this area offers a unique blend of college-town charm and local convenience. Residents enjoy a lively atmosphere with plenty of student-friendly activities, but it’s also welcoming to families and professionals alike. Whether you're a fan of college sports, arts, or simply want to be near one of the city’s main educational hubs, Baylor provides a vibrant community feel with a strong sense of identity.

One of the standout attractions in the Baylor neighborhood is McLane Stadium, home to the Baylor Bears football team. Game days bring a festive spirit to the area, with tailgating and celebrations that add excitement for locals and visitors. Beyond sports, the neighborhood boasts the beautiful Baylor University campus itself, which is perfect for leisurely walks and cultural events. For dining and shopping, residents often head to nearby establishments that cater to a mix of tastes—from cozy coffee shops and casual eateries to trendy boutiques and essential services. The area also benefits from green spaces and parks that provide outdoor options for relaxation and recreation.

When it comes to convenience, Baylor is just a short drive north west of Downtown Waco, making it easy to enjoy the city’s broader amenities without sacrificing neighborhood comfort. Downtown offers a wealth of restaurants, entertainment venues, and historical sites, including the famous Magnolia Market and the Waco Suspension Bridge. This proximity means residents of Baylor can enjoy a quiet, community-focused lifestyle while still being close enough to the heart of Waco’s social and cultural scene. Overall, Baylor is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to relocate to a lively, well-connected neighborhood with plenty of character.

About 18% of the Baylor 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 15% 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.

Exploring Baylor demographics can reveal a lot about its character, pace, and overall lifestyle. Baylor has a population of 12,099, which is larger than many other Waco neighborhoods, creating a lively and dynamic atmosphere. Its size brings an abundance of amenities, entertainment options, and community activities, while still offering spaces to unwind and enjoy the neighborhood’s unique character.

Baylor has a population density of 2,806, which strikes a balanced feel when compared to other Waco 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 22, 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 Baylor 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 trends offer valuable insight into the accessibility and character of a neighborhood. In Baylor, the median home price is $148,700, which is less than many surrounding areas. This affordability makes it an attractive option for first-time buyers, young families, or anyone looking to enter the housing market without a significant financial barrier. Looking at appreciation rates and past market trends in Baylor can offer valuable insight into the neighborhood’s investment potential. Understanding how home values have changed over time helps buyers gauge future growth, assess long-term stability, and make more informed real estate decisions.

The median rent is around $1,077, 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 Baylor 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 Baylor 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.