Total Population
385,047
Median Age
38
Diversity Index
74.000
The Heart of Texas Economic Development District, located in central Texas between Dallas and Austin, comprises six counties: Bosque, Falls, Freestone, Hill, Limestone, and McLennan. According to U.S. Census estimates, the region's population grew from 349,273 in 2010 to 385,047 in 2024, an overall increase of 10.24%, surpassing the projected growth rate of 7% by over 3%. Between 2019 and 2024, the population rose from 372,588 to 385,047, reflecting a nearly 3% increase. Major population centers in the region include Waco, Hewitt, Robinson, Hillsboro and Mexia.
The Heart of Texas Region maintains a strong agricultural presence, but its economic engine is driven by the Waco MSA's robust industrial and commercial sectors. Smaller economic hubs are located in Hillsboro and Mexia. Access to health care remains generally good throughout the region, anchored by two major health centers in McLennan County and supported by rural health centers in each of the other counties.
Economic development initiatives in the Heart of Texas region continue to focus on key industry clusters identified by the Texas Industry Cluster Initiative, which include:
Energy production continues to play a pivotal role in the regional economy and the region has diversified its energy portfolio with an increasing emphasis on oil and natural gas extraction, as well as significant growth in renewable energy. Solar and wind farms have expanded rapidly, with Texas ranking as the second-largest state in solar capacity additions nationally.
Recent years have witnessed substantial economic expansion, especially within the Waco MSA. Companies such as Amazon, Hello Bello, OCI Solar Power, and Hecate Energy have made significant investments in the area. The region is well-positioned to sustain and accommodate additional growth in the near future.
The Heart of Texas region boasts a skilled and adaptable workforce supported by a range of workforce training and higher education institutions. As of late 2024, the Waco MSA has shown strong employment recovery and growth following pandemic-related disruptions, with total employment significantly surpassing pre-pandemic levels.
Wage and employment data for key industries illustrate the ongoing strength of the regional economy. Updated workforce data indicate diversified growth across manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, and education sectors.
One of the region's standout strengths is its ability to provide specialized workforce training quickly through partnerships with industry leaders. Educational institutions such as Baylor University, TSTC (Texas State Technical College), Hill College, MCC (McLennan Community College), and McLennan County Workforce Solutions Center, all in which offer diverse degree programs to support workforce development and higher education goals.
The geography of the Heart of Texas Region combines tablelands, irregular plains, and hilly terrain in the western areas, with elevations ranging from 209 to 1,200 feet above sea level. The region experiences a mean minimum temperature of 33.3°F in winter and a mean maximum of 96°F in summer, with an annual average rainfall of approximately 36.21 inches.
Abundant lakes, rivers, and streams serve as critical resources for recreation, municipal water supplies, and economic activities such as tourism and energy production. These natural assets continue to enhance the region's appeal for residents and businesses alike.
Households
144,529
Total Housing Units
164,172
Owner Occupied
93,646
Renter Occupied
50,883
Vacant
19,643
Median Home Value
$238,012
Average Home Value
$281,160
Median Household
$63,631 $72,831
Average Household
$89,600 $102,403
Per Capita
$33,734 $38,981
Total Businesses
13,258
Total Employed
162,883
Workers 16+
161,812
2024 HealthCare / Social Assistance
Businesses
1,120
Employed
23,140
2024 Retail Trade Businesses
Businesses
1,899
Employed
19,017
2024 Educational Services - Businesses
Businesses
393
Employed
18,704
2024 Accommodation / Food Service
Businesses
1,155
Employed
15,624
2024 Public Administration
Businesses
675
Employed
15,024
2024 Food Service / Drinking Est.
Businesses
980
Employed
14,030
Some
High School
18,283
Graduated
High School
60,451
Associates
Degree
28,024
Bachelor's
Degree
42,061
Graduate
Degree
24,489
Average Commute Time
0 min.
Resident Commuters
134,277
Non-Resident Commuters
26,693
Drive Alone
131,006
Carpooled
14,828
Public
501
Work At Home
10,683