Moving from Sacramento to Waco (2026)

Waco has a COL index of 83 vs 127 for Sacramento (100 = US average). You'd pay about 35% less for the same lifestyle.

Save ~$1,098/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
12783
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$2,000$1,000
per month
State tax
9.3%None
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,159$4,741
per month

Salary needed in Waco to match your Sacramento lifestyle

Based on the 35% cost of living decrease between the two cities.

Your salary in SacramentoEquivalent in Waco
$40K$26,142
$50K$32,677
$60K$39,213
$75K$49,016
$80K$52,283
$100K$65,354
$120K$78,425
$150K$98,031

Monthly budget at $75K — Sacramento vs Waco

ExpenseSacramentoWaco
Monthly take-home$4,159$4,741
1BR rent$2,000$1,000
Groceries$403$350
Transport$100$38
Utilities$150$172
Internet$65$60
Left after essentials$1,441$3,121

Frequently asked questions

Is Waco cheaper than Sacramento?

Yes. Waco has a cost of living index of 83 vs 127 for Sacramento (100 = US average). That's about 35% cheaper.

How much will I save moving from Sacramento to Waco?

On a $75K salary, moving from Sacramento to Waco could save roughly $1,098/month on core expenses. That's ~$13,176/year.

What salary do I need in Waco to match my Sacramento lifestyle?

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Sacramento, you'd need roughly $49,016/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