2026 Compare Cities Overview:
Champaign, IL vs Waco, TX

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Waco older or younger than people in Champaign?
- The Median Age in Waco is 2.2 years older than in Champaign.

Are housing costs cheaper in Waco or Champaign?
- Waco housing costs are 9.7% more expensive than Champaign housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Waco or Champaign?
- The average commute for residents of Waco is 2.0 minutes longer than it is for residents of Champaign.

Things to do in Champaign?
Champaign, Illinois is a thriving university town located approximately two hours south of Chicago. It has plenty of recreational facilities ranging from libraries to state parks offering access to Lake of the Woods Forest Preserve or Homer Lake.

Things to do in Waco?
Waco, Texas is a vibrant city located in Central Texas. Here locals and visitors alike can enjoy plenty of activities from visiting the historic Magnolia Market, participating in one of the many festivals throughout the year, or simply exploring the downtown area. With its excellent schools, thriving businesses and plenty of recreational opportunities it's no wonder why so many people choose to make Waco their home. There are also numerous dining options, shopping centers and entertainment venues available for those looking for some fun!

 Champaign, ILWaco, TXUnited States
 Population  Unlock136,800329,725,481
 Median Income$52,687  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock29.138.4
 Avg. Home Price$190,400  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock6.6%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time15.68  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Champaign    13 Reviews

Over 7 years ago

Pros - close to Chicago, has Parkland community college and lots of places to eat. There is a train station downtown that is really good. Beautiful deciduous trees and  More

   |    Reply

Over 9 years ago

I wonderful city with great  More

   |    Reply

Actually it's barely a nice place to live. The pros: Not terribly expensive - at one point the least expensive place to live in the country among modest sized  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Champaign

Reviews for Waco    20 Reviews

Over 5 years ago

This town is a nightmare for all nearby towns or people passing through. Expect to add an hour to your trip if you're passing through. Traffic. Traffic traffic.  More

   |    Reply

Best city in Texas when you count traffic, housing cost, eateries, Baylor Bear sports, largest urban lake in Texas, Texas Rangers Hall of Fame, Texas Sports Hall of  More

   |    Reply

i was raised in waco tx and recently moved to country to get away from the drama and crime associated w living in waco.But it seems now the city of Waco has purchased  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Waco


Premium Subscription
Includes Cost of Living compares for child care, utilities, transportation, health, taxes, housing for home owners vs renters, weather, insurance premiums and so much more.


The premier source for comprehensive city data for over 30 years.

© Best Places. All rights reserved.