Moving from Salem to Waco (2026)
Waco has a COL index of 83 vs 97 for Salem (100 = US average). You'd pay about 14% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$470/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
9783
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,450$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 Salem lifestyle
Based on the 14% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Salem | Equivalent in Waco |
|---|---|
| $40K | $34,227 |
| $50K | $42,784 |
| $60K | $51,340 |
| $75K | $64,175 |
| $80K | $68,454 |
| $100K | $85,567 |
| $120K | $102,680 |
| $150K | $128,351 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Salem vs Waco
| Expense | Salem | Waco |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,122 | $4,741 |
| 1BR rent | $1,450 | $1,000 |
| Groceries | $380 | $350 |
| Transport | $72 | $38 |
| Utilities | $125 | $172 |
| Internet | $63 | $60 |
| Left after essentials | $2,032 | $3,121 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Waco cheaper than Salem?
Yes. Waco has a cost of living index of 83 vs 97 for Salem (100 = US average). That's about 14% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Salem to Waco?
On a $75K salary, moving from Salem to Waco could save roughly $470/month on core expenses. That's ~$5,640/year.
What salary do I need in Waco to match my Salem lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Salem, you'd need roughly $64,175/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