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

Arlington

Texas
95
VS

Waco

Texas
72

Arlington is 32% more expensive than Waco.

$1,389/mo ↑ 27%
Median Rent
$1,098/mo ↓ 21%
$73,519/yr ↑ 43%
Median Income
$51,468/yr ↓ 30%
$276,400 ↑ 38%
Home Value
$199,600 ↓ 28%
$1,420/mo ↑ 30%
Owner Costs
$1,094/mo ↓ 23%
394,769
Population
141,925

Tax Comparison

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

Affordability

22.7%
rent-to-income
Affordability
25.6%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Arlington, TX and Waco, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 95 and 72 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $291/month cheaper in Waco, saving renters about $3,492/year.

Median household income is $22,051/year higher in Arlington. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Arlington is $276,400 compared to $199,600 in Waco.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Arlington vs Waco — common questions

Is Arlington or Waco cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Waco is cheaper to live in with an index of 72 compared to 95 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Arlington and Waco?
Median rent in Arlington is $1,389/month and in Waco it's $1,098/month — a difference of $291/month.
Which city has higher income, Arlington or Waco?
Median household income is $73,519 in Arlington and $51,468 in Waco. Median household income is $22,051/year higher in Arlington.
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 Arlington or Waco?
It depends on your priorities. Arlington has a cost index of 95 with median rent of $1,389/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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