Baylor University

Study, Work, Live & Play in Waco, TX

Nestled along the Brazos River in Central Texas, Baylor University combines distinguished private Christian education with the revitalized charm of a growing city, deep Bear pride, and a commitment to faith, service, and academic rigor. Waco offers a welcoming setting where intellectual pursuit meets Texas heritage, outdoor adventure, and community renewal, attracting students, professionals, and families who value character, tradition, and a balanced way of life. From historic campus landmarks and research initiatives to riverfront trails and iconic local attractions, Waco provides experiences that nurture growth, build lasting relationships, and celebrate Bear spirit.

Study in Waco, TX

Baylor University stands as a premier Christian research institution, drawing dedicated students from across the nation and beyond with its challenging programs, faith-integrated learning, and emphasis on personal formation. In U.S. News & World Report’s 2026 rankings, Baylor secures No. 91 among National Universities and ranks highly for undergraduate teaching and value. Niche praises its exceptional campus life and strong sense of community, while The Princeton Review highlights its supportive environment and high student satisfaction.

Spanning a 1,000-acre campus along the Brazos River, featuring the iconic Pat Neff Hall with its clock tower and the Armstrong Browning Library’s collection of rare Victorian literature, students engage in hands-on discovery through the Undergraduate Research and Scholarly Activities (URSA) program, offering grants, mentorship, and faculty-guided projects across disciplines. Cultural highlights include the Mayborn Museum Complex with natural history and dinosaur exhibits, the Baylor Art Museum’s contemporary and religious works, and traditions such as the “Sic ’em Bears” hand sign, the Baylor Line cheer, lighting the fountain for victories, and massive tailgates at McLane Stadium with the live bear mascot Judge. With R1 research classification and a unified Bear community rooted in Christian values, Baylor creates an exceptional foundation for scholars seeking intellectual depth, moral leadership, and meaningful impact.

Work in Waco, TX

Waco’s employment landscape expands through education, healthcare, manufacturing, and emerging tourism and tech sectors, with Baylor University serving as a major economic engine via research, talent development, and community partnerships. The university supports thousands of positions while advancing innovation and regional revitalization.

Key employers include Baylor Scott & White Medical Center and Ascension Providence in healthcare, L3Harris Technologies and SpaceX (nearby Starbase influence) in advanced manufacturing and aerospace, and Mars Wrigley in consumer goods. Steady growth in education-related roles, professional services, and entrepreneurship, combined with low unemployment, creates diverse opportunities in medical, technical, and administrative fields. This collaborative ecosystem in a resurgent college city supports career stability and advancement with opportunities for professional growth and community contribution.

Live in Waco, TX

Waco delivers a comfortable, community-centered lifestyle that has earned recognition in regional livability lists for affordability, family appeal, and revitalized charm, praised for its parks, safety, and welcoming residents. The dining scene features Texas classics and local innovation, from legendary barbecue at Vitek’s and burgers at Health Camp to contemporary Southern at 1424 Bistro, alongside food trucks and campus favorites.

With abundant sunny days, residents explore over 40 parks including Cameron Park’s extensive trails and overlooks, Lake Waco for boating and fishing, and the Waco Mammoth National Monument for prehistoric insights. Neighborhoods blend historic appeal with modern renewal, encouraging friendly interactions and a strong sense of place. Waco’s fusion of riverfront energy, cultural revival, and steady growth forms an inviting, rooted home.

Play in Waco, TX

Waco comes alive with Bear enthusiasm and local traditions, highlighted by major events that unite crowds: the Heart of Texas Fair & Rodeo (typically September/October) with PRCA rodeo, carnival rides, and concerts; the Texas Food Truck Showdown and Waco Downtown Farmers Market for seasonal gatherings; and high-energy Baylor Bears football games at McLane Stadium featuring tailgating, Judge the bear, and post-win celebrations. Outdoor pursuits thrive along the Brazos River for kayaking and paddleboarding, Cameron Park’s hiking paths, and nearby Magnolia Market at the Silos for shopping and events.

Adventures include exhibits at the Dr Pepper Museum and Texas Ranger Hall of Fame, seasonal happenings like Silo of Screams (fall) and Waco Cultural Arts Festival, or exploring the historic Waco Suspension Bridge. Whether cheering in the stands, joining festival crowds, or enjoying riverfront and natural escapes, Waco supplies a vibrant schedule of recreation grounded in Texas heritage, college spirit, and authentic community enthusiasm.

Learn Your History & Stats

College History

Founded in 1845 by the Republic of Texas and chartered as the first university in the state, Baylor University stands as Texas’s oldest continuously operating institution and a leading private Christian university with R1 Doctoral status for very high research activity. It has advanced through milestones like post-Civil War recovery, coeducation integration, desegregation, and a renewed focus on faith-integrated scholarship and community impact. Baylor has produced influential alumni including Willie Nelson (country music icon), Brittney Griner (WNBA star and Olympic gold medalist), Rand Paul (U.S. Senator), Robert Griffin III (Heisman Trophy winner and NFL quarterback), Angela Kinsey (actress from The Office), and leaders in entertainment, politics, sports, and public service. The Hankamer School of Business continues to thrive with its full-time MBA ranked No. 54 nationally (U.S. News & World Report 2025) and undergraduate programs earning high marks, bolstered by global entrepreneurship research leadership (No. 6 worldwide per TCU rankings 2025), strengths in analytics, supply chain, and experiential initiatives connected to Texas’ economy for innovation and graduate success. The School of Law ranks No. 43 nationally (U.S. News & World Report 2025), a premier public-value private option with elite trial advocacy (No. 3 nationally) and strong programs in business/corporate law, delivering exceptional bar passage, job placement, and ROI. Baylor University excels in leading academic rankings, placing No. 88 nationally (U.S. News & World Report 2026) as a top 50 private university (No. 46), with honors for undergraduate teaching (No. 27), first-year experiences (No. 4), and learning communities (top 10), underscoring its R1 research growth—exceeding prior levels toward continued records—and leadership in health, education, social sciences, and the deep Bear pride embodied in traditions like the Baylor Line and McLane Stadium spirit.

Student Population and Housing Market Insights

Approaching or steady around 19,858-20,000 students in fall 2025 (approximately 14,183 undergraduates and 5,675 graduate/professional students with a strong freshman class of 3,552), Baylor University attracts a diverse community, with Texas residents comprising about 65% (strong in-state draw), out-of-state students around 35% from all 50 states, and international students from 90 countries adding global perspectives. On-campus housing serves about 31-39% of students (with high participation in 12 residence halls, particularly for freshmen), while the majority—around 61-69%—live off-campus in apartments, houses, or private rentals near campus. This significant off-campus presence sustains a solid rental market in central areas like ZIP 76706 (campus core along the Brazos River) and adjacent ZIP 76798 (university-related zones). Over the past 15 years, home values in these ZIP codes have appreciated notably, driven by Baylor’s enrollment stability, research momentum, and Waco’s revitalized college-town appeal, providing rewarding long-term returns for property owners according to Zillow and CoreLogic trends (with medians around $200,000-$240,000 and steady positive growth patterns). Many investors using platforms like collegehomes.com find multiple avenues for creating investment opportunities due to the large amount of renters within the Baylor University markets, capitalizing on reliable student-driven demand. As a private institution, Baylor offers generous need-based and merit aid—meeting substantial demonstrated need and providing scholarships that often reduce costs significantly—making it an accessible, faith-centered elite option for families building lives in Texas without traditional in-state/out-of-state tuition differentials.

Off-Campus Living and Nightlife in Waco

Students at Baylor University flock to energetic off-campus neighborhoods like South Waco (ZIP 76706), Downtown Waco, Speight-Jenkins, and areas near University Parks Drive, all within a quick 1- to 2-mile walk, bike ride, or shuttle from campus. These areas combine historic appeal, modern student amenities, and river-city charm, attracting undergrads, grads, and young professionals alike. South Waco pulses as the core of student living, featuring historic homes and new apartments with amenities like pools, fitness centers, and study lounges—perfect for managing rigorous classes and vibrant social scenes while fueling high rental demand. Popular complexes include The Outpost at Waco, known for luxury finishes, resort-style pools, and proximity to campus; URSA, offering modern designs, gated security, and easy access; Park Place Waco Apartments, with spacious layouts, clubhouses, and views; and Addison Waco, boasting fully furnished units, vibrant community features, and shuttle convenience near Baylor.

Downtown Waco enchants with its urban revival—modern lofts in restored buildings, tree-lined streets, and a walkable vibe filled with breweries, shops, and cultural spots, ideal for those desiring a sophisticated residential feel close to campus. Speight-Jenkins draws grad students and quieter crowds with affordable rentals, green spaces, and a peaceful atmosphere, just a short drive or bus ride away. These neighborhoods not only connect via Baylor shuttles and nearby Brazos River trails but also promote independence with groceries, eateries, and Magnolia Market at the Silos, making off-campus life a natural extension of the Bear experience.

Waco Rental Market

The rental market within 1.5 miles of Baylor University, particularly in ZIP codes 76706 (South Waco/University Parks) and 76701 (Downtown), caters heavily to the university’s 20,000+ students. Modern apartments and shared houses dominate near campus due to high demand. As of early 2026, average rents in these areas range approximately $1,200–$1,700/month, above the citywide average of around $1,000–$1,300. Below are rental stats for student-centric properties:

Average Rent per Bedroom: $600–$1,000, with premium South Waco units often exceeding $1,200 for luxury apartments near campus.
Studio Apartments: $900–$1,400/month, with budget options in outer areas (~$800) and upscale spots Downtown (~$1,500).
1-Bedroom Apartments: $1,000–$1,500/month, averaging $1,200 in student zones. Affordable choices nearby start at $900.
2-Bedroom Apartments: $1,300–$1,900/month, with near-campus averages at $1,600. Shared rentals reduce costs (e.g., $800/person).
3-Bedroom Apartments/Houses: $1,700–$2,500/month, ideal for student groups. Speight-Jenkins options around $2,000.

Smart housing options, like roommate shares or pre-leased units via apartment locators, help students manage costs. High demand during fall semesters drives early leasing near South Waco, while short-term rentals thrive during football games and events like Homecoming. Data sources: Zillow, RentCafe, Apartments.com, Baylor off-campus resources.

Nightlife in Waco

Waco’s nightlife surges with Bear spirit, known for its growing live music, craft bars, and laid-back downtown energy. Downtown and nearby districts offer walkable or quick-ride access from campus—especially during massive events like football Saturdays at McLane Stadium in fall and the Heart of Texas Fair, when short-term rentals boom with crowds.

Downtown Waco (76701) holds emerging status for its bar scene, featuring spots like Dichotomy Coffee & Spirits’ patios and Barnett’s Public House’s stages spilling live bands, craft cocktails, and vibes onto Austin Avenue. The area’s lively lounges create a social, party atmosphere with drink specials and games, while nearby venues add eclectic flair for varied nights out.

Newer Twists on Waco’s Nightlife Scene

Waco’s nightlife keeps evolving with fresh live music venues, craft spots, and hybrid hangouts, grounded in Baylor traditions but welcoming diverse crowds—from rowdy undergrad parties to more relaxed grad gatherings.

The Backyard Bar Stage & Grill: This Downtown powerhouse stands as a cornerstone with outdoor concert stage, fire pits, and frequent live shows—boosting the area’s status as an entertainment hub with post-event buzz.

Dichotomy Coffee & Spirits: The vibrant core excels with craft cocktails, coffee by day, and spots for pre-gaming or late-night fun—enhanced vibes make it a staple for unfiltered excitement, especially during weekends.

Barnett’s Public House: This polished favorite draws a 21+ crowd with rare whiskey, craft beer, and themed events—fusing Waco’s spirited feel with upscale touches for extended nights.

Old Favorites Holding Strong: True Love Bar for divey charm and cheap drinks; The Dancing Bear Pub for cozy hangs and events; Truelove Bar for gritty vibes and legendary atmosphere.

Downtown Gem: Union Hall: This food hall offers a relaxed escape with multiple vendors, craft cocktails, and occasional live sets—serving hearty grub and drinks alongside a social patio vibe near nightlife.

Downtown’s “Bear haven” rise with artsy dives and craft bars pulls nightlife fans from quieter spots, highlighting Waco’s enduring, vibrant energy.

Fueling Up: Great Eateries, Coffee Houses, and Breakfast Spots

Waco’s food scene excels near Baylor, with late-night options, study-friendly cafes, and hearty brunches—many places serving as social hubs with big portions and student deals.

Eateries for Late-Night or Anytime Cravings:

Common Grounds (near campus): Beloved for inventive eats like sandwiches and Cowboy-themed drinks—prime late-night fuel.
George’s Restaurant & Bar (near campus): Classic diner fare with burgers and Tex-Mex for quick, satisfying bites.
The Olive Branch (Downtown): Mediterranean-inspired plates with extended hours for anytime cravings.

Coffee Houses for Study Sessions or Buzz:

Common Grounds (multiple, campus-adjacent): Spacious with expert lattes, pastries, and live music vibes—ideal for all-nighters.
Pinewood Coffee Bar (Downtown): Bold roasts, seasonal drinks, and mid-century spaces for focused work.
Dichotomy Coffee & Spirits (Downtown): House blends with craft cocktails and cozy atmosphere.
Fabled Bookshop & Cafe (near campus): Literary-inspired lattes, pastries, and artsy energy near nightlife.

Breakfast Spots to Start (or Recover) the Day:

Magnolia Table (Silos area): Farm-fresh pancakes, biscuits, and Southern classics—worth the lines.
Common Grounds (near campus): Hearty breakfast burritos and bottomless coffee for recovery fuel.
Cafe Homestead (nearby): Organic, farm-to-table omelets and pastries in a welcoming spot.
George’s Restaurant & Bar (near campus): Classic diner omelets and migas with strong coffee.
Lighthouse Coffee (Downtown): Elevated brunch with decadent pastries and Olympia roasts.

From South Waco apartment hunts to Downtown bar crawls, Waco’s off-campus world keeps the energy alive—game nights transitioning to strong coffee mornings. Embrace the “Sic ‘Em Bears” tradition; the excitement (and flavors) are part of the fun.

Student Organizations and Activities at Baylor University

With over 400 registered student organizations, Baylor University in Waco fosters a vibrant “Bear Community” where academics, deep-rooted Christian faith, and enduring traditions converge on a historic campus along the Brazos River. From the joyful All-University Sing performances in the Ferrell Center to spirited Dr Pepper Hour gatherings in the Bill Daniel Student Center, student life thrives with inclusive resources like tutoring and career services at the Paul L. Foster Success Center, iconic rituals such as Homecoming parades and bonfires, Green & Gold Fridays, and a welcoming culture embracing virtuous leadership, service, intellectual pursuit, and Bear pride amid Waco’s growing cultural scene and Texas heritage.

Sports and Recreational Clubs

Athletic competition and fun infuse Bear life through Intramural Sports at Campus Recreation, drawing students, faculty, and staff into leagues and tournaments each semester. Whether competing in flag football, volleyball spikes, or dodgeball matchups, programs accommodate all skill levels—no experience necessary. Campus favorites include basketball, indoor soccer, ultimate frisbee, softball, racquetball, and cornhole, with various formats and seasons emphasizing healthy rivalry, character, and sportsmanship. Teams form via residence halls, Greek chapters, friends, or as free agents, with registration through the Campus Rec portal and free or low-cost entry. The program’s focus on integrity and enjoyment delivers playoffs, points races, and champions.

For more structured intensity, over 35 sport clubs offer competitive play against other universities, featuring distinctive options like rugby, fencing, crew, boxing, disc golf, pickleball, and outdoor pursuits. These student-led teams compete regionally and nationally, cultivating leadership through practices, travel, and events—ideal for offsetting rigorous studies with teamwork, friendships, and thrills at Baylor facilities or Waco’s rivers and trails.

Faith and Identity Communities

Spiritual growth and cultural belonging flourish in supportive spaces deeply rooted in Baylor’s Christian mission while honoring diverse beliefs. Numerous campus ministries provide worship, Bible studies, discipleship, and outreach; groups like Baptist Student Ministries (BSM), Cru, Reformed University Fellowship (RUF), and Catholic Student Association host Masses, small groups, retreats, and fellowship amid campus life.

Broader networks include Anglican Student Ministry (ASM), Episcopal Student Center, Muslim Students Association for prayer and cultural programming, Hillel for Jewish events and Shabbat, and interfaith coalitions through Spiritual Life. These organizations create inclusive sanctuaries, blending faith exploration with social ties and Waco-area service, fostering holistic development and community in line with Baylor’s values.

Political and Ideological Engagement

Motivated by policy, values, and civic duty? Baylor’s political arena spans perspectives with platforms for debate, advocacy, and leadership. Turning Point USA at Baylor advances conservative principles through speakers, tabling, and events that spark campus conversations on liberty, limited government, and faith-aligned governance, often collaborating with like-minded groups. The Baylor College Republicans hosts policy discussions, community service, and engagement to promote Republican ideals and connect students to opportunities.

Counterparts include College Democrats for progressive advocacy, voter drives, and inclusive initiatives, alongside non-partisan efforts fostering dialogue. Intellectual rigor comes from debate teams, Model UN, and policy societies sharpening skills in public forum, Lincoln-Douglas, and more—open to all. These organizations build critical thinking and public engagement, preparing future leaders for respectful exchanges in Waco’s tradition-rich, faith-centered environment.

From singing at All-University Sing, sipping Dr Pepper during Hour, or competing in an intramural flag football league, Baylor student life is shaped—one tradition, one gathering, one meaningful connection at a time. Discover your place via Baylor CONNECT (baylor.campuslabs.com/engage), involvement fairs, or features in The Baylor Lariat. Sic ‘Em Bears.

Benefits of Investing in Properties Near Baylor University

Investing in real estate near Baylor University stands out as a smart move in one of Texas’s most promising and rapidly appreciating markets, delivering reliable rental income, strong equity growth, family advantages, and enhanced financial planning. In high-demand neighborhoods like the Baylor Bubble, Castle Heights, Uptown, Elm Avenue District, and areas near campus such as Austin Avenue or along the Brazos River, properties capitalize on unwavering demand from Baylor’s student population, combined with Waco’s surging popularity as a revitalized city fueled by education, healthcare, manufacturing, tourism through Magnolia Market and Fixer Upper fame, and steady economic expansion in the Heart of Texas region—making it a hotspot for long-term real estate appreciation and opportunity.

Unlocking In-State Tuition Savings

As a private institution, Baylor University charges uniform tuition rates for all students—around $63,620 for undergraduate tuition and fees in recent years, with a Guaranteed Tuition Option at a flat $71,320 per year—but establishing Texas residency unlocks valuable state-specific financial aid, including the Tuition Equalization Grant (TEG) providing up to several thousand dollars annually to eligible low-income students at private Texas universities. Acquire a condo or home in prime locations like the Baylor Bubble or Castle Heights, have your student reside there (often with roommates), and establish domicile with documentation such as the property deed, Texas driver’s license, voter registration, and other proofs of intent to remain. After 12 consecutive months of maintaining Texas domicile, residency is typically achievable, enhancing eligibility for TEG, local scholarships, and other Texas aid programs, potentially reducing net costs significantly while supporting overall affordability and resource allocation toward housing or future goals.

Generating Strong Rental Cash Flow

The consistent enrollment at Baylor University creates persistent demand, ensuring well-located properties near campus experience minimal vacancies. Updated condos or single-family homes in key zones rent swiftly at competitive per-bedroom rates, often generating revenue that covers or exceeds monthly expenses. Strategic financing combined with roommate configurations commonly enables rental income to offset mortgage principal and interest, property taxes, insurance, and HOA fees—delivering neutral or positive cash flow from the outset. Market-aligned annual rent increases continue to improve yields, rendering the property largely self-supporting while providing your student with convenient, campus-adjacent living.

Building Equity Through Appreciation and Paydown

Waco’s central neighborhoods surrounding Baylor University have demonstrated reliable, steady property value appreciation, driven by limited supply, ongoing influx of students and professionals, and the city’s growing appeal as a destination for families and investors amid revitalization and economic momentum. Paired with consistent principal reduction through mortgage payments primarily funded by tenants, equity builds dependably over the years. This effective pairing of value growth and debt paydown generates meaningful wealth accumulation in a stable, high-demand setting—presenting a lower-risk route to financial advancement, especially in Waco’s currently popular and appreciating real estate landscape compared to more volatile markets.

Creating a Family Launchpad

After commencement, the appreciated asset becomes an exceptional foundation for the future. Families can choose to sell and realize gains to apply them toward a down payment on a larger residence in expanding communities like Woodway or nearby areas, or refinance to pull out equity tax-efficiently while keeping the property as a continuing income source. This method provides your graduate with a notable financial head start—well ahead of peers beginning from zero—converting college-era housing into a solid building block for future independence and ownership.

Imparting Lifelong Financial Lessons

Property ownership provides practical, immersive experiences that extend well beyond academic learning. Your student develops hands-on skills in coordinating with roommates, supervising maintenance, administering leases, and grasping core financial ideas in a genuine environment. These real-world insights simplify investing, promote accountability, and cultivate enduring confidence in strategies for creating and preserving wealth—evolving a simple real estate decision into a profound lesson in achieving financial self-reliance.

Fueled by Waco’s thriving education and healthcare sectors, tourism boom, manufacturing strength, and perennial student-driven demand, near-campus investments excel in durability and diverse benefits—particularly highlighted by the city’s strong real estate popularity and appreciation potential. From enhancing affordability through state aid eligibility to building generational prosperity, one well-chosen property near the iconic Old Main or McLane Stadium can transform both academic journeys and long-term financial trajectories.

UT Austin In-State Tuition Savings

In-State Tuition Savings Over Time

Disclosure: Baylor University is a private institution; tuition rates are the same for both in-state and out-of-state students. Values shown reflect historical increases based on published tuition data.

Academic Year	In-State Tuition	Out-of-State Tuition	Savings
20'-21'	$44,544	$44,544	$0
21'-22'	$45,542	$45,542	$0
22'-23'	$46,686	$46,686	$0
23'-24'	$47,364	$47,364	$0
24'-25'	$48,264	$48,264	$0

Top Academic Programs

Baylor University offers over 140 degree programs across 12 colleges and schools, with academic strengths in business, health sciences, and engineering. Its $200 million in annual research expenditures support initiatives such as the Baylor Research and Innovation Collaborative (BRIC) and partnerships with local and national industries. The top five undergraduate programs include:

Business

The Hankamer School of Business, ranked #56 nationally, excels in entrepreneurship and accounting, with alumni at Ernst & Young and JPMorgan Chase.

Nursing

The Louise Herrington School of Nursing, ranked #29 nationally, prepares nurses for clinical excellence, with partnerships at Baylor Scott & White

Biology

The College of Arts & Sciences advances medical and environmental research, with graduates pursuing careers at the CDC and NIH.

University_of_Texas_at_Austin_August_2019_15_(Sarah_M._and_Charles_E._Seay_Building)

Communication

The College of Arts & Sciences trains leaders in journalism and public relations, with alumni at ESPN and The Dallas Morning News.

Education

The School of Education prepares teachers and administrators, with fieldwork in Waco ISD.

Baylor’s 200,000+ Alumni Include

Robert Griffin III

Robert Griffin III, commonly known as RG3, is one of Baylor University’s most celebrated alumni. A standout quarterback, Griffin made history by winning the 2011 Heisman Trophy, becoming Baylor’s first recipient of the prestigious award. During his time at Baylor, he led the Bears to national recognition with record-breaking performances and a 10–3 season capped by a victory in the Alamo Bowl. Following his collegiate success, he was selected second overall in the 2012 NFL Draft by the Washington Redskins and went on to earn the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Yeartitle. Beyond his athletic achievements, Griffin has built a career as a sports analyst and broadcaster for ESPN, continuing to inspire through his leadership, perseverance, and dedication both on and off the field.

Joanna Gaines

Joanna Gaines is one of Baylor University’s most recognizable alumni and a leading figure in design, entrepreneurship, and media. A 2001 graduate in Communications, Gaines gained national fame as co-host of HGTV’s hit show Fixer Upper, where she and her husband, Chip Gaines (also a Baylor alumnus), transformed homes and revitalized communities across Waco, Texas. Together, they built the Magnolia brand, a lifestyle and design empire that includes retail, publishing, real estate, and the Magnolia Network. Through her creative vision, business leadership, and commitment to faith and family, Joanna Gaines has become a symbol of Baylor’s spirit of innovation, integrity, and service.

Jeff Dunham

Jeff Dunham is a renowned comedian, ventriloquist, and Baylor University alumnus known for revolutionizing modern stand-up comedy. A 1986 graduate in Communication, Dunham began performing while attending Baylor, developing the sharp wit and creative characters that would later define his career. He went on to achieve international fame through his popular comedy specials, arena tours, and Netflix shows, featuring iconic characters like Walter, Achmed the Dead Terrorist, and Peanut. Recognized as one of the world’s highest-grossing comedians, Jeff Dunham’s success reflects Baylor’s tradition of excellence, creativity, and perseverance.

Angela Kinsey

Angela Kinsey is a Baylor University alumna and award-winning actress best known for her role as Angela Martin on the acclaimed television series The Office. A 1993 Baylor graduate in English, Kinsey began her performance career in improv and comedy before landing her breakout role that would make her a household name. Beyond The Office, she has appeared in numerous television shows and films, co-hosts the popular Office Ladies podcast with co-star Jenna Fischer, and is active in philanthropic and creative projects. Kinsey’s warmth, humor, and authenticity embody the Baylor spirit of community, faith, and excellence in the arts.

Mark Hurd

Mark Hurd was a distinguished business leader and Baylor University alumnus, celebrated for his influential career in the global technology industry. A 1979 Baylor graduate in Business Administration, Hurd rose to prominence as CEO of Hewlett-Packard (HP) and later served as co-CEO of Oracle Corporation, where he led major initiatives in innovation, cloud computing, and organizational growth. Known for his strategic vision, leadership excellence, and commitment to operational efficiency, Hurd left a lasting impact on the business and tech world. His legacy also includes generous support of education—most notably through the Mark and Paula Hurd Welcome Center at Baylor, a landmark honoring his enduring connection to the university.

Why Waco and Baylor are Great Choice for Investing In College Properties

Waco’s economic growth, cultural revival, and welcoming lifestyle, with 144,585 city residents and 304,000 in the metro area, make it an ideal place to live and study. As a private institution, Baylor’s tuition is the same regardless of residency ($58,100 for regular tuition and fees in 2024-2025, or $71,320 with the Guaranteed Tuition Option). However, establishing Texas residency, achievable after 12 months, provides access to state-specific financial aid like the Tuition Equalization Grant (up to $5,000 annually) and reduces indirect costs due to Waco’s affordability. Waco’s real estate market, with high demand in Baylor-adjacent areas like South Waco and Downtown, supports rental income and appreciation, driven by the city’s revitalization and Baylor’s expansion. Owning property near campus aligns with lifestyle and financial goals, making Waco a smart investment.

Sources

Waco Tribune-Herald
Wacoan Magazine
Business Journals
Community Impact
U.S. News & World Report
Baylor University Official Website
Wikipedia
U.S. Census Bureau
World Population Review
Forbes
Niche
College Factual
Princeton Review
Baylor University One Stop Student Financial Services
Univstats
Forward Pathway
Baylor University Media and Public Relations