Moving from Raleigh to Waco (2026)
Waco has a COL index of 83 vs 101 for Raleigh (100 = US average). You'd pay about 18% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$725/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
10183
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,700$1,000
per month
State tax
4.5%None
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,459$4,741
per month
Salary needed in Waco to match your Raleigh lifestyle
Based on the 18% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Raleigh | Equivalent in Waco |
|---|---|
| $40K | $32,871 |
| $50K | $41,089 |
| $60K | $49,307 |
| $75K | $61,634 |
| $80K | $65,743 |
| $100K | $82,178 |
| $120K | $98,614 |
| $150K | $123,267 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Raleigh vs Waco
| Expense | Raleigh | Waco |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,459 | $4,741 |
| 1BR rent | $1,700 | $1,000 |
| Groceries | $365 | $350 |
| Transport | $70 | $38 |
| Utilities | $150 | $172 |
| Internet | $60 | $60 |
| Left after essentials | $2,114 | $3,121 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Waco cheaper than Raleigh?
Yes. Waco has a cost of living index of 83 vs 101 for Raleigh (100 = US average). That's about 18% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Raleigh to Waco?
On a $75K salary, moving from Raleigh to Waco could save roughly $725/month on core expenses. That's ~$8,700/year.
What salary do I need in Waco to match my Raleigh lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Raleigh, you'd need roughly $61,634/year in Waco. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Waco to RaleighRaleigh vs Waco — full comparisonRaleigh 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