Can I Afford to Live in Waco vs Guadalajara on $100K?

Here's how a $100K/year salary plays out in both cities after taxes, rent, and core living expenses — based on Q1 2026 data.

Waco, TX
$6,321/mo take-home
Rent: $1,000/mo (16% of take-home)
Very comfortable
Guadalajara, MX
$6,321/mo take-home
Rent: $520/mo (8% of take-home)
Very comfortable

Monthly budget breakdown

Waco
TX
Guadalajara
MX
Monthly take-home (est.)
$6,321Best ✓
$6,321
1BR rent
$1,000
$520Best ✓
Groceries (est.)
$350Best ✓
$380
Transport (est.)
$38Best ✓
$150
Utilities
$172
$55Best ✓
Internet
$60
$25Best ✓
Left after essentials
$4,701/month
$5,191/month
Both Waco and Guadalajara have no state income tax — your take-home is higher than in most states.

Frequently asked questions

Is $100K a good salary in Waco?

At $100K/year in Waco, your estimated monthly take-home is $6,321. With 1BR rent around $1,000/month, rent takes up 16% of your take-home. That's considered very comfortable.

Is $100K a good salary in Guadalajara?

At $100K/year in Guadalajara, your estimated monthly take-home is $6,321. With 1BR rent around $520/month, rent takes up 8% of your take-home. That's considered very comfortable.

Which city is more affordable on a $100K salary?

Guadalajara leaves you with more money after core expenses — $5,191/month vs $4,701/month in Waco.

Can I afford to live alone in Waco on $100K?

Yes. At $100K in Waco, rent takes 16% of your take-home, leaving $4,701/month after essentials. Most financial planners recommend keeping rent below 30%.

Compare other salary bands — Waco vs Guadalajara

$40K$50K$60K$75K$80K$120K$150K

See the full cost-of-living comparison

Rent, groceries, taxes, transportation, and more — side by side.

Full comparison

Take-home estimates use simplified federal/state brackets and do not account for pre-tax deductions, 401(k), or local taxes. Data: Zillow, BLS, Numbeo · Q1 2026 · For general guidance only