Moving from Tempe to Waco (2026)
Waco has a COL index of 83 vs 103 for Tempe (100 = US average). You'd pay about 19% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$687/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
10383
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,600$1,000
per month
State tax
2.5%None
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,584$4,741
per month
Salary needed in Waco to match your Tempe lifestyle
Based on the 19% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Tempe | Equivalent in Waco |
|---|---|
| $40K | $32,233 |
| $50K | $40,291 |
| $60K | $48,350 |
| $75K | $60,437 |
| $80K | $64,466 |
| $100K | $80,583 |
| $120K | $96,699 |
| $150K | $120,874 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Tempe vs Waco
| Expense | Tempe | Waco |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,584 | $4,741 |
| 1BR rent | $1,600 | $1,000 |
| Groceries | $380 | $350 |
| Transport | $55 | $38 |
| Utilities | $210 | $172 |
| Internet | $62 | $60 |
| Left after essentials | $2,277 | $3,121 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Waco cheaper than Tempe?
Yes. Waco has a cost of living index of 83 vs 103 for Tempe (100 = US average). That's about 19% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Tempe to Waco?
On a $75K salary, moving from Tempe to Waco could save roughly $687/month on core expenses. That's ~$8,244/year.
What salary do I need in Waco to match my Tempe lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Tempe, you'd need roughly $60,437/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