Welcome to the Lone Star State, where the spirit of education meets the charm of small-town life! In this article, we’re diving into seven of Texas’s top college towns, where BBQ joints sit alongside bookstores, and cowboy boots are paired with backpacks.
From the sheer weirdness Austin apartment renters experience every day to the quaint allure of a quiet house in College Station, each town below boasts its own flavor and flair.
So, pop on that ten-gallon hat, we’re setting out on a journey through seven Texan gems where academia thrives within southern hospitality. Get ready to discover why everything, including higher education, truly is bigger (and better) in Texas!
1. Austin – UT Austin
Population: 961,855 | Student population: 51,991 | Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,485
At the University of Texas at Austin, tech is king. The university’s strong ties with major tech companies in Austin, like IBM, Dell, and National Instruments, provide students with internships that often transition into full-time positions after graduation. Additionally, UT Austin’s annual entrepreneurship competitions, like the Texas Venture Labs Investment Competition, actively support student startups, linking them with real investors.
The impact of UT Austin extends well beyond the campus. Many students and alumni engage directly with local government, influencing urban planning and community projects for those living in Austin. This participation ensures that the city’s growth and large-scale projects reflect the youthful, innovative spirit of the university’s population.
Apartments near UT Austin | Houses for rent near UT Austin
2. College Station – Texas A&M
Population: 120,511 | Student population: 72,530 | Average 1-bedroom rent: $848
Texas A&M University is a cornerstone of College Station. As the “A&M” implies, the university is particularly noted for its agriculture and mechanical engineering programs. The AgriLife Research program conducts cutting-edge agricultural research that translates into improved farming techniques across the country. Engineering students often collaborate with local businesses through the Engineering Experiment Station to develop technology that strengthens the town’s infrastructure.
Texas A&M’s influence is also felt in the local job market. Graduates often find employment in the area, which helps to retain talent locally and sustain economic growth. Partnerships with aerospace and mechanical engineering companies bring professional opportunities to College Station, ensuring a steady supply of jobs and constant innovation.
Apartments near Texas A&M | Houses for rent near Texas A&M
3. Lubbock – Texas Tech
Population: 257,141 | Student population: 40,542 | Average 1-bedroom rent: $697
Texas Tech University is particularly well known for its health sciences and engineering programs. The Health Sciences Center trains healthcare professionals and provides critical medical services to the region, filling gaps in local healthcare availability.
The Texas Tech National Wind Institute is crucial for the community too, developing new building safety standards that help protect homes against tornadoes and severe weather, essential in a storm-prone place like Lubbock.
Apartments near Texas Tech | Houses for rent near Texas Tech
4. Denton – University of North Texas
Population: 139,869 | Student population: 42,441 | Average 1-bedroom rent: $1.321
The University of North Texas in Denton is a great spot for students interested in digital media and the arts. The Mayborn School of Journalism’s collaboration with local media outlets provides hands-on experiences for students. This partnership is a win-win for everyone and improves the community’s access to high-quality news and information.
Additionally, UNT’s College of Music plays a significant role in Denton, organizing events like the Denton Arts and Jazz Festival and more.
Apartments near University of North Texas | Houses for rent near University of North Texas
5. Waco – Baylor University
Population: 138,486 | Student population: 20,626 | Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,133
Baylor University profoundly influences Waco through its law and medical programs. The Law School’s Legal Aid Clinic offers free legal services to the community, allowing students to gain practical experience while assisting Waco locals. This program helps bridge the gap between academia and real-world legal practice, giving BU students a leg up after graduation.
Baylor’s medical programs work with local hospitals on research and clinical trials. These partnerships enhance medical care and provide students with critical hands-on training in a real-world medical setting.
Apartments near Baylor University | Houses for rent near Baylor University
6. Huntsville – Sam Houston State University
Population: 45,941 | Student population: 21,612 | Average 1-bedroom rent: $949
At Sam Houston State University, the College of Criminal Justice has a tangible impact on Huntsville through its Correctional Management Institute of Texas. This institute provides advanced training and development for local law enforcement, enhancing policing practices and community safety.
The university is also only one of 17 universities to be affiliated with the PGA for its Professional Golf Management program, which is one of the best in the country. This makes Sam Houston and Huntsville a destination for students with varied interests from all walks of life.
Apartments near Sam Houston State University | Houses for rent near Sam Houston State University
7. San Marcos – Texas State University
Population: 67,553 | Student population: 37,864 | Average 1-bedroom rent: $1,140
Texas State University at San Marcos is championed for its education and environmental conservation programs. Its teacher preparation programs supply San Marcos schools with well-trained educators.
Through the Meadows Center for Water and the Environment, Texas State also leads conservation efforts for the San Marcos River. This center conducts important ecological research and gets students involved in conservation projects.
Apartments near Texas State | Houses for rent near Texas State
Methodology
College towns are qualified as towns or cities with at least one college or university and fewer than 1,000,000 people according to U.S. Census data. Average rental data from Rent.com in May 2024.
This is not a comprehensive list of all of the towns and cities in the state meeting those requirements.