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Dean Highland

Dean Highland

$204,480 Average Value
$239 Average Price per Sq Ft
12 Homes For Sale

Community spirit and Waco history

In the early 20th century, local doctor Jesse Judge Dean and his family donated a large portion of their land to Baptists who sought to build a new hospital in the bourgeoning town of Waco. The transaction bolstered cultural and economic development, and the Highland Baptist Church’s founding helped cement the legacy of this diverse neighborhood. The Hillcrest Baptist Medical Center eventually moved to a new location, but the community’s nurturing spirit continues to thrive. "A lot of neighborhoods in Waco feel like they could go either way — they could get really run-down, or they could get a lot nicer," says Jessica Ford, president of the Dean Highland Neighborhood Association. "And I think there have been a lot of people who've wanted to invest in the Dean Highland neighborhood." One of those investments involves the creation of a new green space at the site of the former hospital, which was demolished in 2020. Residents also benefit from a favorable location near downtown Waco and Cameron Park.

A mosaic of architectural styles

Like many nearby neighborhoods, Dean Highland contains a multitude of ranch-style homes from the 1940s and ’50s. But engaging architectural details emerge from beneath the dense oak canopy. “Dean Highland has a little bit more of a historic feel to it,” says Melissa Harrell, Realtor and owner of Onward Real Estate Team at Keller Williams Advantage. “A lot of the homes have unique architectural characteristics to them, and younger families have moved in and renovated a lot of the homes.” Cross-gabled roofs, pocket-sized front porches and arched entryways supported by pillars lend eye-catching flourishes to the facades. Bungalows appear hewn from river rock, with rugged exterior walls speckled in shades of sand and umber. Most properties measure a quarter to a third of an acre, with grassy fenced yards. Prices start at $125,000 to $400,000 for single-story bungalows and ranch-style houses, with some larger remodels selling for $375,000 to $550,000. Two-story capes and Colonial-style homes fetch $350,000 to $450,000 on average.

Some homes within Dean Highland have popular styles of the 40s and 50s.
Some homes within Dean Highland have popular styles of the 40s and 50s.
Dean Highland is site to some of the larger homes in the area.
Dean Highland is site to some of the larger homes in the area.
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South of the border specialties

Waco’s Latinx heritage comes to life at several area businesses. Diners at Rufi’s Cocina can enjoy specialties like chiles rellenos and carne asada, while Los Compadres food truck serves up taco trays with an array of savory fillings, from beef barbacoa to pork al pastor. The ice cream at La Nueva Michoacana makes a refreshing after-dinner treat. Poco Loco Supermercado stocks local meat and produce and Mexican ingredients that can be difficult to find at chain supermarkets. For Keeps Coffee & Bakery is a popular spot for morning pick-me-ups, kolaches and sweet treats. At Kim's Diner, patrons enjoy comfort food in a retro '50-style setting.

Rufi's Cocina is a common gathering place for a meal or drink within Dean Highland.
Rufi's Cocina is a common gathering place for a meal or drink within Dean Highland.
Locals head to Kim's Diner for burgers and fries in a 50s atmosphere.
Locals head to Kim's Diner for burgers and fries in a 50s atmosphere.
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From Dean Highland to Waco High

Students start at Dean Highland Elementary School, which has a Niche grade of C. They’ll move to Tennyson Middle School, which earns a B-minus, for grades 6 through 8. Then it’s on to Waco High School, which also gets a B-minus. At Waco High, they’ll have the opportunity to compete in varsity sports, including football and powerlifting.

Dean Highland Elementary School continues to empower tomorrow's leaders.
Dean Highland Elementary School continues to empower tomorrow's leaders.
GreatSchools gives Waco High School a 13:1 student-to-teacher ratio.
GreatSchools gives Waco High School a 13:1 student-to-teacher ratio.
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Dog-friendly picnics at North Waco Park

Picnic areas settle in the shady groves of North Waco Park, an inviting patch of greenery near McFerrin Avenue. The paved walking trail winds around the perimeter, past fitness equipment and a small playground. Leashed dogs are welcome, and a covered pavilion offers seating for large groups.

North Waco Park is a welcome spot for children and families.
North Waco Park is a welcome spot for children and families.
Residents enjoy the scenic view at North Waco Park.
Residents enjoy the scenic view at North Waco Park.
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Two miles to downtown Waco

Dean Highland is the home of the Waco Police Department, which operates from an imposing concrete-and-glass structure on Pine Avenue. Bosque Boulevard, the neighborhood’s main thoroughfare, leads to a cluster of retail centers and chain restaurants along North Valley Mills Drive. The closest major highway is US Route 84, which connects to downtown Waco 2 miles away. Waco Transit System buses stop in the neighborhood, but the trip downtown can take up to an hour, so it’s easier to drive. Route 84 also provides access to Interstate 35, the best option for the 90-minute drive north to Dallas. Waco Regional Airport is 5 miles away and offers connecting flights to Dallas-Forth Worth and Austin.

Dean Highland is home to the City of Waco Police Department.
Dean Highland is home to the City of Waco Police Department.
The Magnolia Silos in Downtown Waco draw residents in from Dean Highland.
The Magnolia Silos in Downtown Waco draw residents in from Dean Highland.
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Highland Baptist Church

The diverse congregation at Highland Baptist Church gathers every Sunday morning in the Highland Life Center. Music is key for this church community, which offers ministries for children from preschool through college in addition to adult fellowships.

The Dean Highland community is brought together by services at Highland Baptist Church.
The Dean Highland community is brought together by services at Highland Baptist Church.
Highland Baptist Church services the Christian community within Dean Highland.
Highland Baptist Church services the Christian community within Dean Highland.
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Broncs and bulls at Extraco Event Center

A short drive down Bosque Boulevard leads to Extraco Event Center, home of the Heart O’ Texas Fair & Rodeo. The October celebration spans 10 days and features rodeo events, carnival rides and games, livestock shows and live music.

For a great time at the rodeo, Dean Highland residents make their way to ExtraCo Events Center.
For a great time at the rodeo, Dean Highland residents make their way to ExtraCo Events Center.
ExtraCo Event Center hosts the rodeo and fair every year.
ExtraCo Event Center hosts the rodeo and fair every year.
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Adrienne Ryan
Written By
Adrienne Ryan
Photography Contributed By
Andrea McKinney
Matt Ferguson
Video By
Matt Ferguson

Agents Specializing in this Area

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Schools

Source:
GreatSchools: The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process. View GreatSchools Rating Methodology

Interested in learning more about homes in this area? Reach out to Cate Marmonti, an experienced agent in this neighborhood.

Parks in this Area

Transit

Airport

Waco Regional

17 min drive

Dean Highland Demographics and Home Trends

Housing Trends

Median List Price
$400,750
Median Sale Price
$400,750
Median Single Family Sale Price
$400,750
Median Townhouse Sale Price
$419,990
Median Change From 1st List Price
5%
Last 12 months Home Sales
44
Median Home Sale Price YoY Change
41%
Average Price Per Sq Ft
$239

Neighborhood Facts

Number of Homes in Neighborhood
1,618
Number of Homes for Sale
12
Median Year Built
1945
Months of Supply
3.30
Average Single Family Home Size Sq Ft
1,342
Significantly below the national average
1,924
Median Lot Size Sq Ft
8,276

Open Houses

  • Friday, Aug 8
    4 - 6pm

    3117 Ethel Ave, Waco, TX 76707

    $249,900

    • 3 Beds
    • 2 Baths
    • 1,268 Sq Ft
    • 3117 Ethel Ave
    • New 9 days ago

    Welcome to this charming fully remodeled home located in the heart of Waco! This 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home also includes a versatile bonus room—perfect for a home office, playroom, or extra living space. Mature trees in the front yard provide the perfect amount of shade, creating a warm and inviting curb appeal.Inside, you’ll find a beautifully updated kitchen featuring granite

    Anel Perales EG Realty

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  • Sunday, Aug 3
    4am - 6pm

    2715 Bosque Blvd, Waco, TX 76707

    $239,900

    • 4 Beds
    • 2 Baths
    • 1,636 Sq Ft
    • 2715 Bosque Blvd

    Fully Renovated & Move-In Ready!Welcome to this beautifully renovated home featuring modern finishes throughout! Offering 3 spacious bedrooms and 2 stylish bathrooms, this home also includes an additional detached room—210 sq ft with its own mini-split AC unit and private bathroom—perfect for a guest suite, office, rental income, or multi-generational living.Enjoy peace of mind with

    Anel Perales EG Realty

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Distribution of Home Values

Source: Public Records

Homes for Sale

Homes for Rent

Interested in learning more about homes in this area? Reach out to Cate Marmonti, an experienced agent in this neighborhood.

Average Home Value





Source: Public Records

Property Mix - Square Feet

This Neighborhood Has More Owners

Demographics

Total Population
5,185
Median Age
33
Population under 18
30.3%
Above the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
12.7%
Below the national average
19.1%

Finances

Median Household Income
$49,853
Significantly below the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$84,373

Education and Workforce

High School Graduates
76.6%
Below the national average
89.1%
College Graduates
22.3%
Below the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
7.3%
% Population in Labor Force
69.5%

Weather

Annual Precipitation
36''
Average Winter Low Temperature
36°F
Average Summer High Temperature
97°F
Annual Snowfall
0''

Area Factors

Somewhat Bikeable

Bike Score®

41 / 100

Car-Dependent

Walk Score®

22 / 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score

Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.

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Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
NEIGHBORHOOD
Dean Highland
Cate Marmonti
Bridge Realty
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