Moving from Boulder to Waco (2026)
Waco has a COL index of 83 vs 132 for Boulder (100 = US average). You'd pay about 37% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$1,380/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
13283
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$2,300$1,000
per month
State tax
4.4%None
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,466$4,741
per month
Salary needed in Waco to match your Boulder lifestyle
Based on the 37% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Boulder | Equivalent in Waco |
|---|---|
| $40K | $25,152 |
| $50K | $31,439 |
| $60K | $37,727 |
| $75K | $47,159 |
| $80K | $50,303 |
| $100K | $62,879 |
| $120K | $75,455 |
| $150K | $94,318 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Boulder vs Waco
| Expense | Boulder | Waco |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,466 | $4,741 |
| 1BR rent | $2,300 | $1,000 |
| Groceries | $414 | $350 |
| Transport | $80 | $38 |
| Utilities | $138 | $172 |
| Internet | $68 | $60 |
| Left after essentials | $1,466 | $3,121 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Waco cheaper than Boulder?
Yes. Waco has a cost of living index of 83 vs 132 for Boulder (100 = US average). That's about 37% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Boulder to Waco?
On a $75K salary, moving from Boulder to Waco could save roughly $1,380/month on core expenses. That's ~$16,560/year.
What salary do I need in Waco to match my Boulder lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Boulder, you'd need roughly $47,159/year in Waco. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Waco to BoulderBoulder vs Waco — full comparisonBoulder cost of livingWaco cost of living
Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates at $75K. Zillow · BLS · Numbeo · For general guidance only