Moving from Portland to Waco (2026)
Waco has a COL index of 83 vs 125 for Portland (100 = US average). You'd pay about 34% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$982/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
12583
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,900$1,000
per month
State tax
9.9%None
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,122$4,741
per month
Salary needed in Waco to match your Portland lifestyle
Based on the 34% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Portland | Equivalent in Waco |
|---|---|
| $40K | $26,560 |
| $50K | $33,200 |
| $60K | $39,840 |
| $75K | $49,800 |
| $80K | $53,120 |
| $100K | $66,400 |
| $120K | $79,680 |
| $150K | $99,600 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Portland vs Waco
| Expense | Portland | Waco |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,122 | $4,741 |
| 1BR rent | $1,900 | $1,000 |
| Groceries | $407 | $350 |
| Transport | $100 | $38 |
| Utilities | $130 | $172 |
| Internet | $65 | $60 |
| Left after essentials | $1,520 | $3,121 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Waco cheaper than Portland?
Yes. Waco has a cost of living index of 83 vs 125 for Portland (100 = US average). That's about 34% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Portland to Waco?
On a $75K salary, moving from Portland to Waco could save roughly $982/month on core expenses. That's ~$11,784/year.
What salary do I need in Waco to match my Portland lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Portland, you'd need roughly $49,800/year in Waco. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Waco to PortlandPortland vs Waco — full comparisonPortland 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