Moving from Waco to Fayetteville (2026)

Fayetteville has a COL index of 84 vs 83 for Waco (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 1% more for the same lifestyle.

Pay ~$181 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline

Key differences

COL index
8384
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,000$1,200
per month
State tax
None4.5%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,741$4,459
per month

Salary needed in Fayetteville to match your Waco lifestyle

Based on the 1% cost of living increase between the two cities.

Your salary in WacoEquivalent in Fayetteville
$40K$40,482
$50K$50,602
$60K$60,723
$75K$75,904
$80K$80,964
$100K$101,205
$120K$121,446
$150K$151,807

Monthly budget at $75K — Waco vs Fayetteville

ExpenseWacoFayetteville
Monthly take-home$4,741$4,459
1BR rent$1,000$1,200
Groceries$350$353
Transport$38$42
Utilities$172$148
Internet$60$58
Left after essentials$3,121$2,658

Frequently asked questions

Is Fayetteville cheaper than Waco?

No. Fayetteville has a cost of living index of 84 vs 83 for Waco (100 = US average). That's about 1% more expensive.

How much will I save moving from Waco to Fayetteville?

On a $75K salary, core expenses in Fayetteville run about $181/month more than Waco. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.

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

To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Waco, you'd need roughly $75,904/year in Fayetteville. 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