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Three of the fastest-growing college towns are in Texas

by Emily Marek

Everything’s bigger in Texas — including college towns, according to a new report from BrokeScholar.

The education analysis website examined population growth in 150 U.S. “college towns” — defined as cities with at least one major public or private university — in 2000, 2010, 2020 and 2023. Six Lone Star cities landed in the top 50 for growth during that time.

The highest Texas city on BrokeScholar’s list was San Marcos, home to Texas State University. The No. 4-ranked college town has seen 95% population growth over the past 23 years, with its population expanding from 36,130 in 2000 to over 70,000 in 2023. The population is expected to grow by another 23% by 2030.

Next up was No. 6-ranked Denton, home of the University of North Texas and Texas Woman’s University. The college town has seen an impressive 90% growth since 2000, with a current population of over 160,000 residents.

The aptly-named College Station ranked eighth in the nation — home to Texas A&M University, the city has grown by 79% since 2000 and is projected to have a population of over 244,000 by 2030.

Ranking at No. 22 was Austin, home to The University of Texas at Austin, Saint Edward’s University, Huston-Tillotson University and Concordia University. Though growing slightly slower than some of its fellow Lone Star college towns, Austin’s population is projected to be among the largest in the nation by the end of the century. The city has seen 43% growth since 2000 and had 966,292 residents in its latest count.

Other Texas college towns in the top 50 were Lubbock, home to Texas Tech University and Lubbock Christian University, and Richardon, home to The University of Texas at Dallas.

The fastest-growing college town on the list was Bozeman, Montana, home of Montana State University. The city’s population has expanded by 106% since 2000, growing from 28,210 residents to over 58,000 in 2023.

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