Moving from New Orleans to Waco (2026)
Waco has a COL index of 83 vs 95 for New Orleans (100 = US average). You'd pay about 13% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$452/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
9583
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,400$1,000
per month
State tax
4.3%None
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,472$4,741
per month
Salary needed in Waco to match your New Orleans lifestyle
Based on the 13% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in New Orleans | Equivalent in Waco |
|---|---|
| $40K | $34,947 |
| $50K | $43,684 |
| $60K | $52,421 |
| $75K | $65,526 |
| $80K | $69,895 |
| $100K | $87,368 |
| $120K | $104,842 |
| $150K | $131,053 |
Monthly budget at $75K — New Orleans vs Waco
| Expense | New Orleans | Waco |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,472 | $4,741 |
| 1BR rent | $1,400 | $1,000 |
| Groceries | $372 | $350 |
| Transport | $55 | $38 |
| Utilities | $185 | $172 |
| Internet | $60 | $60 |
| Left after essentials | $2,400 | $3,121 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Waco cheaper than New Orleans?
Yes. Waco has a cost of living index of 83 vs 95 for New Orleans (100 = US average). That's about 13% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from New Orleans to Waco?
On a $75K salary, moving from New Orleans to Waco could save roughly $452/month on core expenses. That's ~$5,424/year.
What salary do I need in Waco to match my New Orleans lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in New Orleans, you'd need roughly $65,526/year in Waco. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Waco to New OrleansNew Orleans vs Waco — full comparisonNew Orleans 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