Cost of Living: Amarillo, TX vs Waco, TX (2026)

Amarillo

Texas
69
VS

Waco

Texas
72

Amarillo is 3% cheaper than Waco.

$1,049/mo ↓ 4%
Median Rent
$1,098/mo ↑ 5%
$62,469/yr ↑ 21%
Median Income
$51,468/yr ↓ 18%
$186,800 ↓ 6%
Home Value
$199,600 ↑ 7%
$1,074/mo ↓ 2%
Owner Costs
$1,094/mo ↑ 2%
200,945
Population
141,925

Tax Comparison

0%
Income Tax
0%
6.25%
Sales Tax
6.25%
1.6%
Property Tax
1.6%

Affordability

20.2%
rent-to-income
Affordability
25.6%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Amarillo, TX and Waco, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 69 and 72 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $11,001/year higher in Amarillo. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Amarillo is $186,800 compared to $199,600 in Waco.

Both cities share the same state tax structure since they are in Texas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Amarillo vs Waco — common questions

Is Amarillo or Waco cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Amarillo is cheaper to live in with an index of 69 compared to 72 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Amarillo and Waco?
Median rent in Amarillo is $1,049/month and in Waco it's $1,098/month — a difference of $49/month.
Which city has higher income, Amarillo or Waco?
Median household income is $62,469 in Amarillo and $51,468 in Waco. Median household income is $11,001/year higher in Amarillo.
How do taxes compare between Texas and Texas?
Both cities are in Texas and share the same state tax rates: 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax.
Should I move to Amarillo or Waco?
It depends on your priorities. Amarillo has a cost index of 69 with median rent of $1,049/mo, while Waco has a cost index of 72 with rent of $1,098/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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