Are you in search of a lively Texas community to call home? Look no further than the cities of Bryan and College Station, also known as “Aggieland.” With a combined population of over 250,000 residents, this vibrant community is a hidden gem in the heart of Texas.
More and more families are flocking to Aggieland each year. In 2021, Texas was named the most popular state to move to, with Bryan-College Station standing out as the seventh fastest-growing area in the United States.
Here are ten reasons why people are moving to Bryan-College Station.
1. Affordable Living
Bryan-College Station’s growth has led to it becoming a highly sought-after community. However, living in the area still remains more affordable than state and national averages. The overall cost of housing in Bryan is 24% less than the national average and 8% less than Texas’ average.
The BCS Metroplex offers a diverse range of rental options. From trendy apartments to historic downtown lofts, country homes, and townhomes, there is something for everyone.
2. Easy Access to Texas’ Largest Cities
Living in College Station offers the best of both worlds – a small-town lifestyle and easy access to the state’s largest cities.
Although Bryan-College Station retains its agricultural roots, it is conveniently located near Houston, Austin, San Antonio, and Dallas.
This proximity allows for quick access to exciting events and attractions, just one of the many benefits of calling College Station-Bryan home.
3. A Growing Job Market
With the lowest unemployment rates in Texas, the Bryan-College Station area is an excellent destination for job seekers. The job market in Bryan and College Station is flourishing and projected to grow at a rate exceeding the national average of 33% over the next decade.
The partnership between Texas A&M University and the local business community has been critical to the city’s economic growth, helping to retain vital industries and businesses.
4. Among the Safest Cities in Texas
Safety is one of the top concerns when looking for a new area to call home. Rest assured that College Station is a secure place to live, with a lower-than-average crime rate compared to the rest of the country.
In fact, College Station ranks as the 11th safest among Texas cities with a population exceeding 100,000. Additionally, Bryan Police reported a decrease in violent crime over the past three years.
Although College Station has a low crime rate, it’s still important to exercise caution and not walk alone after dark, as with any city.
5. Home to a Top Tier University
Bryan-College Station owes its growth and expansion to several factors, including the presence of Texas A&M, one of the top-ranked universities in the United States.
Texas A&M boasts a student population of more than 70,000, making it the largest public university in Texas and the second-largest in the U.S. Adding to this impressive feat, College Station was ranked as the 11th best college town in the nation.
6. Thrilling Texas A&M Sporting Events
Living near Texas A&M University provides an incredible opportunity for you to fully immerse yourself in the excitement of Southeastern Conference sporting events.
TAMU takes great pride in its diversity of world-class athletes across many sports. With one national championship and two Heisman Trophies under their belt, it’s no wonder why the A&M football program has a loyal following.
The legendary Kyle Field is one of the largest college football stadiums in the U.S., accommodating over 100,000 fans, and ranking as the fourth largest in America.
If you’re a true football enthusiast, there’s no better place to be.
7. Top-Ranked School Districts and Family Living
Ranked as the fifth-best spot in the nation for young families, Bryan-College Station offers highly-rated public schools that provide an array of extracurricular activities.
The College Station Independent School District received an A+ rating and was ranked as the 18th best school district in Texas.
College Station offers a variety of educational options for families, including public high schools, middle and junior high schools, and elementary schools. There are also many private and charter schools available for parents to choose from.
8. A Thriving Food Scene
Bryan-College Station is a haven for foodies, with almost 200 restaurants, pubs, and cafes serving up a delicious variety of cuisine. From trendy farm-to-table eateries to brick-oven pizzerias, bars, and traditional American restaurants, there’s something for everyone.
The city is continually working towards attracting more businesses and people to the area through redevelopment and improvements. As you explore the vibrant food scene in Bryan-College Station, you will feel right at home with the friendly locals.
9. Year-Round Activities and Rich History
The College Station and Bryan area is a hub of attractions and activities, providing a vast array of options for both residents and visitors year-round. During winter, Santa’s Wonderland draws crowds, while the rest of the year is filled with opportunities to explore art galleries, museums, and Historic Downtown Bryan.
The Old Bryan Marketplace, Carnegie History Center, and Brazos Valley Museum of Natural History are must-visit spots.
Having a renowned university in town provides our community with unique resources, such as symphonies, art exhibits, and guest speakers from around the world.
Downtown Bryan also hosts First Friday, a free monthly event that shuts down streets for live music, art, and shopping.
10. A Variety of Parks, Hiking Trails, and Outdoor Adventures
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, Bryan-College Station is the perfect destination.
The region boasts over 100 city park properties, including golf courses, swimming pools, parks, and lakes. With nature spots like Lick Creek Park, Veterans Park, and Lake Bryan, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from.
Lake Bryan offers visitors more than 20 miles of hiking, biking, and running trails, swimming areas, and campgrounds.
Stephen C. Beachy Central Park is another must-visit spot, with two ponds, acres of lush forest, and several sports facilities.
For an adventure like no other, head to Aggieland Safari, also known as the “Serengeti of the South.” Start with a leisurely stroll through the 20-acre Adventure Zoo where you can feed tortoises, birds, and giraffes. The exhibits also showcase exotic animals like kangaroos, parrots, and more.
Live, Work, and Play in Bryan-College Station
Bryan-College Station is a vibrant community with an abundance of activities for all ages. The area’s rich history, dining options, and highly-rated schools make it an attractive place for families.
Whether you are looking for outdoor adventures or exciting sporting events, Bryan-College Station is the perfect destination for anyone seeking a welcoming community and a variety of work opportunities.