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Waco, TX

Frequently asked questions

Waco, TX

Waco is a city in and the county seat of McLennan County, Texas, United States. It is situated along the Brazos River and I-35, halfway between Dallas and Austin. The city had a U.S. census estimated 2022 population of 143,984, making it the 24th-most populous city in the state. The Waco metropolitan statistical area consists of McLennan, Falls, and Bosque counties, which had a 2020 population of 295,782. Bosque County was added to the Waco MSA in 2023. The 2023 U.S. census population estimate for the Waco metropolitan area was 304,865 residents.

Indigenous peoples occupied areas along the river for thousands of years. In historic times, the area of present-day Waco was occupied by the Wichita Indian tribe known as the "Waco" (Spanish: Hueco or Huaco). In 1824, Thomas M. Duke was sent to explore the area after violence erupted between the Waco people and the European settlers. His report to Stephen F. Austin described the Waco village: This town is situated on the West Bank of the river. They have a spring almost as cold as ice itself. All we want is some Brandy and Sugar to have Ice Toddy. They have about 400 acres (1.6 km2) planted in corn, beans, pumpkins, and melons, and that tended in good order. I think they cannot raise more than One Hundred Warriors.

After further violence, Austin halted an attempt to destroy their village in retaliation. In 1825, he made a treaty with them. The Waco were eventually pushed out of the region, settling north near present-day Fort Worth. In 1872, they were moved onto a reservation in Oklahoma with other Wichita tribes. 

Waco is located at 31°33'5" North, 97°9'21" West (31.551516, –97.155930). According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has an area of 95.5 square miles (247 km2), of which 84.2 square miles (218 km2) is land and 11.3 square miles (29 km2) is covered by water. 

Waco focuses on health and wellness. Explore the parks, facilities, and programs offered by the Waco Recreation and Community Services Department. These spaces provide opportunities for outdoor activities such as walking, jogging, sports, and picnicking. Join local fitness centers and gyms to participate in exercise programs, fitness classes, and strength training. Some popular options include Planet Fitness, Anytime Fitness, and Gold's Gym. Discover the walking and biking trails in and around Chico, such as the Hale Bopp and Highlander Loop, and Cameron Park. These trails offer opportunities for outdoor exercise and enjoyment of nature. Healthcare in Waco is well-supported by institutions like Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Hillcrest, ensuring residents have access to high-quality medical services. 

Top sites in Waco, TX are Waco Mammoth National Monument, Cameron Park Zoo, and Dr Pepper Museum.

Population: 146,608 (2024). ZIP codes: 76701-76708, 76710-76712, 76714-76716, 76797-76799. Area code: 254. Elevation: 470 ft (143.3 m). Area: 95.5 square miles (247 km2).

FAQs

What is the history of Waco, TX?

It was founded in 1849 on the site of a Waco (Hueco) Indian village near a Texas Ranger fort (1837) in a farming and plantation area. After the American Civil War, Waco became a river-bridge crossing on cattle trails. Later its economy was based almost exclusively on cotton, and the coming of the railroad (1881) stimulated economic growth.

Is Waco, TX safe?

With a crime rate of 38 per one thousand residents, Waco has one of the highest crime rates in America compared to all communities of all sizes - from the smallest towns to the very largest cities. One's chance of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime here is one in 26. Within Texas, more than 95% of the communities have a lower crime rate than Waco.

Is Waco, TX, expensive?

The cost of living in Waco, TX is the same as the state average and 7% lower than the national average. Waco, TX housing is 19% cheaper than the U.S. average, while utilities are about 9% pricier. When it comes to necessities such as food and clothing, groceries are around 0% in Waco, TX than in the rest of the country, while clothing costs around 0%.

Sources

Wikipedia 

City of Waco

Waco Recreation and Community Services Department

Planet Fitness

Anytime Fitness 

Gold's Gym

Hale Bopp and Highlander Loop 

Cameron Park

Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Hillcrest

Waco Mammoth National Monument

Cameron Park Zoo

Dr Pepper Museum

Britannica

Neighborhoodscout

Rentcafe

The content herein is provided for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Medical information changes constantly, and therefore the content on this website should not be assumed to be current, complete or exhaustive. Always seek the advice of your doctor before starting or changing treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, please call your doctor or 9-1-1 (in the United States) immediately.