Is Dean Highland safe?
Waco, Texas · safety score updated nightly
Mostly yes, with normal city awareness.
VibeLoco rates Dean Highland as “Go, stay aware”.
What makes up this score?Recent news
Gogo's take on Dean Highland
“Go. Dean Highland is a quiet, tree-lined residential neighborhood that is generally safe for visitors and residents alike. While petty property crimes like car break-ins happen occasionally, violent incidents are rare. Normal situational awareness when near peripheral commercial corridors like Waco Drive is sufficient.”
About the area
Dean Highland is one of Waco's established mid-century residential neighborhoods, characterized by historic cottages, mature pecan trees, and quiet residential blocks. Located just minutes northwest of downtown and Baylor University, it provides a tranquil, neighborly vibe centered around local schools and parks.
- Historic / Tree-Lined
- Quiet Residential
- Family-Friendly
- Mid-Century Charm
Walking and biking in Dean Highland
Walk score: 48/100 · Bike score: 52/100
There are no dedicated city bike-share stations in the neighborhood, but the residential grid has low traffic volumes and connects easily toward Cameron Park and downtown via marked city bike corridors.
Reasons to go, and reasons to think twice
Pros
- Low rates of violent crime compared to broader central Waco
- High proportion of long-term homeowners maintaining well-kept properties
- Quiet, low-traffic interior streets ideal for daytime walks
Cons
- Occasional opportunistic property crimes like vehicle break-ins and porch package theft
- Inconsistent sidewalk infrastructure and street lighting on some residential side streets
- Higher commercial activity and occasional petty crime along bounding corridors like Waco Drive
Homelessness: Visible homelessness is minimal within the interior residential blocks of Dean Highland, though occasional unhoused individuals or panhandlers may be seen along the commercial perimeters of Waco Drive and Franklin Avenue.
What Dean Highland is like at each time of day
- Morning · 5a – 11a
- Quiet and pleasant with neighbors walking dogs and joggers taking advantage of calm residential streets.
- Afternoon · 11a – 5p
- Peaceful and safe, with standard suburban neighborhood activity and school-related foot traffic.
- Evening · 5p – 10p
- Dimly lit on select interior blocks, but generally calm and safe for an evening walk.
- Late night · 10p – 5a
- Very quiet with minimal foot traffic; locking parked vehicles is advised to deter opportunistic theft.
Transit, parking and getting around
Waco Transit System operates fixed-route bus service along the edges of the neighborhood, primarily Route 4 and Route 5 along Bosque Boulevard and Waco Drive. Waco does not operate a rail or BRT system.
Street parking is free, abundant, and straightforward throughout the residential grid without meters or permits required.
Things to do in Dean Highland
- Take an architectural walking tour admiring 1920s-1950s Tudor and Craftsman style homes.
- Stroll through the green spaces and athletic grounds around Dean Highland Elementary.
- Explore local independent dining and vintage retail along adjacent thoroughfares like Bosque Boulevard.
Local favorites
- Cupp's Drive In · Burger Restaurant · 4.6★ (720)Historic, retro diner serving classic smash burgers and milkshakes since 1947.
- Lighthouse Coffee · Coffee Shop · 4.7★ (540)Specialty coffee roaster offering craft espresso drinks and light bites in an airy space.
- Harvest On 25th · Cafe · 4.6★ (410)Farm-to-table brunch and cafe spot focused on locally sourced, health-conscious plates.
Neighborhoods near Dean Highland
Common questions about Dean Highland
Is Dean Highland safe to walk at night?
Mostly, on the busier, well-lit streets. Avoid empty side streets late at night.
Is Dean Highland a good place to live?
On safety, Dean Highland scores 76/100 — about average for the metro — most residents get by with normal city awareness.
How walkable is Dean Highland?
Walk score 48/100 and bike score 52/100. Most trips need a car.
Which areas near Dean Highland are safer?
Castle Heights (82) score higher nearby.
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