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

Dallas

Texas
97
VS

Waco

Texas
72

Dallas is 35% more expensive than Waco.

$1,403/mo ↑ 28%
Median Rent
$1,098/mo ↓ 22%
$67,760/yr ↑ 32%
Median Income
$51,468/yr ↓ 24%
$295,300 ↑ 48%
Home Value
$199,600 ↓ 32%
$1,409/mo ↑ 29%
Owner Costs
$1,094/mo ↓ 22%
1,299,553
Population
141,925

Tax Comparison

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

Affordability

24.8%
rent-to-income
Affordability
25.6%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Dallas, TX and Waco, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 97 and 72 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $305/month cheaper in Waco, saving renters about $3,660/year.

Median household income is $16,292/year higher in Dallas. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Dallas is $295,300 compared to $199,600 in Waco.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Dallas vs Waco — common questions

Is Dallas or Waco cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Waco is cheaper to live in with an index of 72 compared to 97 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Dallas and Waco?
Median rent in Dallas is $1,403/month and in Waco it's $1,098/month — a difference of $305/month.
Which city has higher income, Dallas or Waco?
Median household income is $67,760 in Dallas and $51,468 in Waco. Median household income is $16,292/year higher in Dallas.
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 Dallas or Waco?
It depends on your priorities. Dallas has a cost index of 97 with median rent of $1,403/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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