Moving from Dallas to Waco (2026)
Waco has a COL index of 83 vs 99 for Dallas (100 = US average). You'd pay about 16% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$572/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
9983
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,500$1,000
per month
State tax
NoneNone
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,741$4,741
per month
Salary needed in Waco to match your Dallas lifestyle
Based on the 16% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Dallas | Equivalent in Waco |
|---|---|
| $40K | $33,535 |
| $50K | $41,919 |
| $60K | $50,303 |
| $75K | $62,879 |
| $80K | $67,071 |
| $100K | $83,838 |
| $120K | $100,606 |
| $150K | $125,758 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Dallas vs Waco
| Expense | Dallas | Waco |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,741 | $4,741 |
| 1BR rent | $1,500 | $1,000 |
| Groceries | $361 | $350 |
| Transport | $96 | $38 |
| Utilities | $175 | $172 |
| Internet | $60 | $60 |
| Left after essentials | $2,549 | $3,121 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Waco cheaper than Dallas?
Yes. Waco has a cost of living index of 83 vs 99 for Dallas (100 = US average). That's about 16% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Dallas to Waco?
On a $75K salary, moving from Dallas to Waco could save roughly $572/month on core expenses. That's ~$6,864/year.
What salary do I need in Waco to match my Dallas lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Dallas, you'd need roughly $62,879/year in Waco. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
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