Moving from Denver to Waco (2026)
Waco has a COL index of 83 vs 122 for Denver (100 = US average). You'd pay about 32% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$1,087/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
12283
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$2,000$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 Denver lifestyle
Based on the 32% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Denver | Equivalent in Waco |
|---|---|
| $40K | $27,213 |
| $50K | $34,016 |
| $60K | $40,820 |
| $75K | $51,025 |
| $80K | $54,426 |
| $100K | $68,033 |
| $120K | $81,639 |
| $150K | $102,049 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Denver vs Waco
| Expense | Denver | Waco |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,466 | $4,741 |
| 1BR rent | $2,000 | $1,000 |
| Groceries | $388 | $350 |
| Transport | $114 | $38 |
| Utilities | $140 | $172 |
| Internet | $65 | $60 |
| Left after essentials | $1,759 | $3,121 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Waco cheaper than Denver?
Yes. Waco has a cost of living index of 83 vs 122 for Denver (100 = US average). That's about 32% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Denver to Waco?
On a $75K salary, moving from Denver to Waco could save roughly $1,087/month on core expenses. That's ~$13,044/year.
What salary do I need in Waco to match my Denver lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Denver, you'd need roughly $51,025/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