Chattanooga, TN vs Waco, TX: 81 vs 72

$1,155/mo ↑ 5%

Median Rent

$1,098/mo ↓ 5%

$61,028/yr ↑ 19%

Median Income

$51,468/yr ↓ 16%

$259,200 ↑ 30%

Home Value

$199,600 ↓ 23%

$1,112/mo ↑ 2%

Owner Costs

$1,094/mo ↓ 2%

182,832

Population

141,925

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Chattanooga, TN and Waco, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 81 and 72 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $57/month cheaper in Waco, saving renters about $684/year.

Median household income is $9,560/year higher in Chattanooga. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Chattanooga is $259,200 compared to $199,600 in Waco.

Frequently Asked Questions

Chattanooga vs Waco — common questions

Is Chattanooga or Waco cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Waco is cheaper to live in with an index of 72 compared to 81 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Chattanooga and Waco?

Median rent in Chattanooga is $1,155/month and in Waco it's $1,098/month — a difference of $57/month.

Which city has higher income, Chattanooga or Waco?

Median household income is $61,028 in Chattanooga and $51,468 in Waco. Median household income is $9,560/year higher in Chattanooga.

How do taxes compare between Tennessee and Texas?

Tennessee has 0% income tax, 7.0% sales tax, and 0.64% property tax. Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax.

Should I move to Chattanooga or Waco?

It depends on your priorities. Chattanooga has a cost index of 81 with median rent of $1,155/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.

Cost of Living: Chattanooga, TN vs Waco, TX (2026)

Chattanooga

Waco

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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