Moving from Waco to Fort Worth (2026)
Fort Worth has a COL index of 91 vs 83 for Waco (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 10% more for the same lifestyle.
Key differences
Salary needed in Fort Worth to match your Waco lifestyle
Based on the 10% cost of living increase between the two cities.
| Your salary in Waco | Equivalent in Fort Worth |
|---|---|
| $40K | $43,855 |
| $50K | $54,819 |
| $60K | $65,783 |
| $75K | $82,229 |
| $80K | $87,711 |
| $100K | $109,639 |
| $120K | $131,566 |
| $150K | $164,458 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Waco vs Fort Worth
| Expense | Waco | Fort Worth |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,741 | $4,741 |
| 1BR rent | $1,000 | $1,400 |
| Groceries | $350 | $365 |
| Transport | $38 | $50 |
| Utilities | $172 | $180 |
| Internet | $60 | $68 |
| Left after essentials | $3,121 | $2,678 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Fort Worth cheaper than Waco?
No. Fort Worth has a cost of living index of 91 vs 83 for Waco (100 = US average). That's about 10% more expensive.
How much will I save moving from Waco to Fort Worth?
On a $75K salary, core expenses in Fort Worth run about $443/month more than Waco. Factor this into your salary negotiation when relocating.
What salary do I need in Fort Worth to match my Waco lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Waco, you'd need roughly $82,229/year in Fort Worth. 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