Moving from San Jose to Waco (2026)
Waco has a COL index of 83 vs 189 for San Jose (100 = US average). You'd pay about 56% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$2,137/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
18983
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$3,000$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 San Jose lifestyle
Based on the 56% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in San Jose | Equivalent in Waco |
|---|---|
| $40K | $17,566 |
| $50K | $21,958 |
| $60K | $26,349 |
| $75K | $32,937 |
| $80K | $35,132 |
| $100K | $43,915 |
| $120K | $52,698 |
| $150K | $65,873 |
Monthly budget at $75K — San Jose vs Waco
| Expense | San Jose | Waco |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,159 | $4,741 |
| 1BR rent | $3,000 | $1,000 |
| Groceries | $437 | $350 |
| Transport | $100 | $38 |
| Utilities | $150 | $172 |
| Internet | $70 | $60 |
| Left after essentials | $402 | $3,121 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Waco cheaper than San Jose?
Yes. Waco has a cost of living index of 83 vs 189 for San Jose (100 = US average). That's about 56% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from San Jose to Waco?
On a $75K salary, moving from San Jose to Waco could save roughly $2,137/month on core expenses. That's ~$25,644/year.
What salary do I need in Waco to match my San Jose lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in San Jose, you'd need roughly $32,937/year in Waco. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Waco to San JoseSan Jose vs Waco — full comparisonSan Jose 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