College Costs in Waco, TX 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 9 colleges in Waco, Texas. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$11,155
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$52,348
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$1,001
per month
Colleges & Universities
9
institutions
Waco Overview
Population
139,236
Student Population
15,017 (10.8%)
Cost of Living Index
91 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
56/100
Transit Score
38/100
Unemployment Rate
5.4%
College Cost Calculator for Waco
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$95,380
Total After Financial Aid
$95,380
Annual Cost
$23,845
Annual After Aid
$23,845
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $95,380 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,083 |
| Total Interest | $34,582 |
| Total Loan Cost | $129,962 |
Universities in Waco
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Baylor University | Private | $52,348 |
| McLennan Community College | Community | $2,604 |
Waco has 9 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Waco vs. National Average
| Category | Waco | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $11,155 | $10,940 | +$215 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $1,001 | $1,050 | -$49 |
| Cost of Living Index | 91 | 100 | -9 |
Waco's cost of living is below the national average. This makes it a more affordable city for students compared to many other college towns.
Student Life in Waco
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
15,017 students
Waco has a total population of 139,236, with approximately 15,017 college students (10.8% of the population). Waco has a significant student presence that contributes to a diverse cultural scene with restaurants, entertainment, and networking opportunities.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Waco
$51,001
Starting Salary
5.4%
Unemployment Rate
74%
Graduation Rate
~6 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Waco earn a median starting salary of $51,001, which is $16,001 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $95,380 (including room and board), it would take approximately 6 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $8,571 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
Other Cities in Texas
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90 colleges · Avg tuition $10,200
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58 colleges · Avg tuition $10,740
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82 colleges · Avg tuition $11,274
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30 colleges · Avg tuition $11,448
Fort Worth
19 colleges · Avg tuition $10,870
El Paso
38 colleges · Avg tuition $8,886
Corpus Christi
22 colleges · Avg tuition $9,426
Plano
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Lubbock
26 colleges · Avg tuition $11,380
Irving
23 colleges · Avg tuition $7,612
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14 colleges · Avg tuition $7,850
Garland
23 colleges · Avg tuition $11,277
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