Waco, TX demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
143,570
1.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$54,365/yr
5.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
61,163
1.5% year-over-year change

Waco population

How many people live in Waco

Waco is home to 143,570 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.3% of Waco locals are male, and 51.7% are female.

Total population
143,570
1.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.3%
69,359
Female
51.7%
74,211
Value Percent YoY change
Male 69,359 48.3% 1.7%
Female 74,211 51.7% 0.7%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Waco is 30, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.3% are children under 15, then 22.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.8% of the population, while another 18.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 13.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
29.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.3%
15 to 24
22.8%
25 to 44
25.8%
45 to 64
18.6%
Over 65
13.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 27,749 19.3% 0.7%
15 to 24 32,805 22.8% -1.4%
25 to 44 37,083 25.8% 2.7%
45 to 64 26,641 18.6% 1.5%
Over 65 19,292 13.4% 3.1%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Waco, 88.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 7.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 48.3% of locals are Caucasian, 19.8% are African American and 2.1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 25% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
88.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.8%
Non-citizens
7.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 127,060 88.5% 0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 5,517 3.8% 11.1%
Non-citizens 10,993 7.7% 6.8%
Racial breakdown
White
48.3%
Black or African American
19.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
2.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
25%
Other
4.3%
Value Percent
White 69,369 48.3%
Black or African American 28,488 19.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 610 0.4%
Asian 3,034 2.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 44 0%
Two or more races 35,900 25%
Other 6,125 4.3%

Households in Waco

A peek inside Waco households

Waco has 53,906 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 58.1% are families, while the remaining 41.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
53,906
1.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
22,597
Family households
31,309
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 22,597 41.9% 0.6%
Family households 31,309 58.1% 2.6%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Waco

The housing landscape of Waco

Waco's housing consists of 61,163 units, with 59.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.2% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
61,163
1.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 36,237 59.2%
1 unit, attached 1,353 2.2%
2 units 2,722 4.4%
3 or 4 units 3,522 5.8%
5 to 9 units 4,080 6.7%
10 to 19 units 5,086 8.3%
20 to 49 units 3,301 5.4%
50 or more units 4,227 6.9%
Mobile home 635 1%
Homes built since 2020
1,543
119.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Waco

In Waco, the median construction year is 1979. About 6.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 11.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 15.7% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 3,874 6.3% 7.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 2,955 4.8% -11.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 10,127 16.6% 4.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 6,812 11.1% -8.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 7,383 12.1% -11.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 7,593 12.4% 12.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 4,467 7.3% -7.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 6,811 11.1% 4.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 9,598 15.7% 6.9%
Built in 2020 or later 1,543 2.5% 119.5%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Waco occupancy rates

Out of the 53,906 occupied housing units in Waco, 49.4% are owner-occupied, while 50.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 11.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
53,906
1.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
27,258
Owner occupied
26,648
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 27,258 50.6% 0.7%
Owner occupied 26,648 49.4% 2.8%
Unoccupied housing units
11.9%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Waco housing costs

Housing costs in Waco come to a median of $1,159 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,165.

Median housing costs per month
$1,159/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Waco
$1,165/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Waco

Waco education at a glance

About 34.9% of the population in Waco went to high school, while 28.9% pursued college studies. Another 7.3% earned an associate degree and 15.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8.9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 5,078 4.6% 10.8%
High school diploma 38,684 34.9% -0.3%
College diploma 32,061 28.9% 1.1%
Associate degree 8,042 7.3% 1.7%
Bachelor's degree 17,034 15.4% 2.9%
Graduate degree 9,882 8.9% 4.4%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Waco

How much people earn in Waco

The average annual household income in Waco was $79,594 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +6.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $54,365, reflecting a +5.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Waco
$79,594/year
6.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in Waco
$54,365/year
5.6% year-over-year change

Waco income by age

In Waco, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $62,793. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $70,579 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $25,344, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $46,729 in earnings. Overall, 76.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $25,344 7.5%
25 - 44 $62,793 9.8%
45 - 64 $70,579 4.6%
Over 65 $46,729 5.6%
Above poverty level
102,608
Below poverty level
31,053
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 102,608 76.8% 2.5%
Below poverty level 31,053 23.2% -2.1%

Average renter income in Waco

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Waco, their median household income was $32,353 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 43.2%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$32,353
Rent-to-income ratio
43.2%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Waco

Workforce and job types in Waco

The job market in Waco is powered by 67,618 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 75.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 24.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.8% run their own businesses, 69.6% are employed by private companies, and 12.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
67,618
2.4% year-over-year change
White collar
51,062
Blue collar
16,556
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 51,062 75.5% 2.7%
Blue collar 16,556 24.5% 1.6%
Employer type
Self employees
7.8%
Private companies
69.6%
Governmental workers
12.9%
Not for profit companies
9.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 5,262 7.8% -1.6%
Private companies 47,050 69.6% 2.7%
Governmental workers 8,722 12.9% -1.5%
Not for profit companies 6,584 9.7% 9.9%
Unemployment rate
4.6%
8.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Waco stands at 4.6%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Waco

How people get around in Waco

In Waco, the average commute time is 19 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 86% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.8% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
19 min
2.8% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 57,313 86% 1.3%
Taxicab 55 0.1% 323.1%
Bus or trolleybus 460 0.7% 9.5%
Motorcycle 95 0.1% 4.4%
Bicycle 172 0.3% -33.3%
Walk 1,863 2.8% 1.0%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Waco by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
76701 1,871 954 $30,313 $66,793
76704 7,018 2,992 $30,349 $38,253
76705 31,616 10,625 $58,236 $85,704
76706 41,627 14,907 $41,656 $64,250
76707 15,879 5,365 $40,443 $56,079
76708 27,790 10,261 $68,856 $85,831
76710 23,329 10,849 $58,186 $90,920
76711 9,676 3,809 $53,185 $55,891
76798 2,883 0 $0 $0

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FAQs about Waco demographics 

What is the total population of Waco?

Waco has a total population of 143,570 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +1.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Waco?

The gender ratio in Waco is as follows:
  • 48.3% males (69,359 residents)
  • 51.7% females (74,211 residents)

What is the median age in Waco?

The median age in Waco is 29.7.

What is the age distribution of the population in Waco?

The age distribution in Waco is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.3% (27,749 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 22.8% (32,805 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.8% (37,083 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 18.6% (26,641 residents)
  • Over 65: 13.4% (19,292 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Waco?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Waco is as follows:
  • White: 48.3% (69,369 residents)
  • Black or African American: 19.8% (28,488 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (610 residents)
  • Asian: 2.1% (3,034 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (44 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 25% (35,900 residents)
  • Other: 4.3% (6,125 residents)

What percentage of the population in Waco are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 88.5% of the population in Waco.

How many housing units are there in Waco?

There are 61,163 housing units in Waco, reflecting a +1.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Waco and what is the average household size?

Waco has a total of 53,906 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Waco?

Waco has a median household income of $54,365, representing a +5.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Waco?

The employment rate is 95.4% in Waco, with a workforce of 67,618 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 75.5% (51,062 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 24.5% (16,556 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.8% (5,262 residents)
  • Private companies: 69.6% (47,050 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.9% (8,722 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.7% (6,584 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025