The Fort Worth

Fort Worth vs Waco

Considering a move between Fort Worth and Waco? Or trying to decide which suits your family better? The Fort Worth has compiled the side-by-side data that matters — demographics, schools, employers, cost of living, and the practical details that determine quality of life in each.

Quick comparison

CategoryFort WorthWaco
Population935,000+143,000+
Median household income$70,000$45,000
CountyTarrant CountyMcLennan County
StateTexasTexas
Time zoneCentral (CT)Central (CT)
Climatehumid subtropicalhumid subtropical
School districtFort Worth ISDWaco ISD
Nearest airportDFW InternationalWaco Regional (ACT)
Major highwaysI-30, I-35W, I-820I-35, US-77, US-84

Demographics and population

Fort Worth has a population of approximately 935,000+, while Waco has approximately 143,000+. Both are in Texas.

Median household income

Fort Worth median household income is $70,000, compared to $45,000 in Waco.

Schools

Fort Worth students are served primarily by Fort Worth ISD, while Waco families typically attend Waco ISD. Both districts have a mix of public, charter, and private school options. Families relocating between the two cities often cite school quality as a primary factor.

Employers and jobs

Fort Worth has notable employers including Lockheed Martin, Bell Textron, American Airlines, while Waco's economy is anchored by Baylor University, Baylor Scott & White, L3Harris.

Things to do

Fort Worth highlights

Waco highlights

Cost of living and housing

Real estate prices vary significantly between the two cities, with median home values reflecting demand, school district quality, and proximity to employment centers. Fort Worth typically trends slightly higher in housing prices compared to Waco, though specific neighborhoods within each city can deviate substantially.

Climate and weather

Fort Worth and Waco share similar humid subtropical climate patterns. Fort Worth typically experiences humid subtropical, while Waco sees humid subtropical.

Transportation and commute

Fort Worth is served by I-30, I-35W, I-820 with DFW International as its closest airport. Waco sits along I-35, US-77, US-84 with Waco Regional (ACT). Commute times and traffic patterns will vary based on where you work.

How to choose between Fort Worth and Waco

The right choice depends on your priorities. Consider:

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The Fort Worth covers Fort Worth in depth. For Waco, see our sister sites in the Nexcom Media network.

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Full city guides

Complete Fort Worth guide Complete Waco guide Best restaurants in Fort Worth Best doctors in Fort Worth

About this comparison

This side-by-side comparison is curated by The Fort Worth — an independent local news outlet part of the Nexcom Media network. Data is updated periodically. For corrections or updates, email editor@nexcom.media.

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