Moving to College Station, Texas: A Comprehensive Relocation Guide

Considering moving to Texas? College Station offers vibrant college-town atmosphere, Texas A&M University culture, and rapid growth. Here’s your 2026 relocation guide.

Demographic Profile to Consider If Moving to College Station:

College Station’s 2026 population exceeds 128,000 across Brazos County in East-Central Texas. Home to Texas A&M University’s 75,000-student main campus, the city maintains a distinctly youthful character with a median age of just 23 years. The Bryan-College Station metropolitan area totals over 270,000 residents. The population comprises 61% White, 18% Hispanic, 10% Asian, and 8% Black residents. Texas A&M’s massive enrollment significantly impacts demographics, creating a university-dominated community unlike typical Texas cities.

Cost of Living to Consider If Moving to College Station:

College Station offers moderate housing costs influenced by student rental demand. Median home prices reach approximately $365,000 in 2026, while apartments rent from $900 to $1,800 monthly depending on proximity to campus. The official median household income of $51,776 reflects the large student population living on limited incomes—permanent residents typically earn significantly higher. The poverty rate of 28% is artificially elevated by college students and doesn’t reflect the broader professional community. Texas’s no state income tax benefits working residents.

Economy and Job Market:

Texas A&M University dominates College Station’s economy as the region’s largest employer with over 20,000 employees including faculty, staff, and researchers. Major employers include College Station Medical Center, Baylor Scott & White Health, St. Joseph Health System, and the Texas A&M Health Science Center. The city benefits from university-related research, technology companies, and regional healthcare. Retail, restaurants, and service businesses along Texas Avenue and throughout the city support the student population and growing permanent community.

Education:

College Station ISD serves approximately 12,000 students across multiple elementary and middle schools plus College Station High School and A&M Consolidated High School. The district maintains strong academic standards influenced by the university community’s education-focused culture. Texas A&M University provides world-class higher education as a flagship land-grant, sea-grant, and space-grant research institution. The university’s presence attracts high-quality K-12 educators and creates an education-centered community environment.

Recreation and Lifestyle:

College Station’s lifestyle revolves around Texas A&M traditions, football games at Kyle Field, and vibrant student culture. Northgate entertainment district near campus offers restaurants, bars, and nightlife. The George Bush Presidential Library and Museum attracts visitors. Residents enjoy Lick Creek Park, Research Park, Veterans Park and Athletic Complex, and the Post Oak Mall shopping area. The Brazos Valley Museum preserves local history. College Station combines small-city livability with big-time college sports excitement and cultural amenities driven by the university.

Healthcare and Services:

Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – College Station, CHI St. Joseph Health Regional Hospital, and College Station Medical Center provide comprehensive healthcare services. Texas A&M Health Science Center advances medical education, research, and specialized care. The concentration of university-affiliated medical facilities ensures access to advanced treatments and specialists. Numerous clinics, urgent care facilities, and medical practices throughout the city serve routine healthcare needs for the growing population.

Transportation:

College Station is accessed via Highway 6, State Highway 40, and Farm-to-Market roads. Texas A&M Transportation Services operates extensive bus routes serving campus and the city. Brazos Transit District provides regional public transit. Easterwood Airport offers limited commercial service. Most residents rely on personal vehicles with typical commute times under 20 minutes. Highway 6 connects to Interstate 45 providing access to Houston 90 miles south and Dallas 170 miles north.

Conclusion:

Moving to College Station in 2026 offers unique college-town living with Texas A&M culture, Aggie traditions, and rapid regional growth. The city’s combination of university atmosphere, nationally ranked football excitement, educated community, and affordable lifestyle makes it ideal for families seeking excellent schools, retirees wanting intellectual stimulation, and professionals in education or healthcare where Texas A&M pride defines community identity and Aggie spirit permeates daily life.