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

Denton

Texas
100
VS

Waco

Texas
72

Denton is 39% more expensive than Waco.

$1,344/mo ↑ 22%
Median Rent
$1,098/mo ↓ 18%
$73,719/yr ↑ 43%
Median Income
$51,468/yr ↓ 30%
$325,700 ↑ 63%
Home Value
$199,600 ↓ 39%
$1,461/mo ↑ 34%
Owner Costs
$1,094/mo ↓ 25%
146,987
Population
141,925

Tax Comparison

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

Affordability

21.9%
rent-to-income
Affordability
25.6%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Denton, TX and Waco, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 72 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $246/month cheaper in Waco, saving renters about $2,952/year.

Median household income is $22,251/year higher in Denton. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Denton is $325,700 compared to $199,600 in Waco.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Denton vs Waco — common questions

Is Denton or Waco cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Waco is cheaper to live in with an index of 72 compared to 100 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Denton and Waco?
Median rent in Denton is $1,344/month and in Waco it's $1,098/month — a difference of $246/month.
Which city has higher income, Denton or Waco?
Median household income is $73,719 in Denton and $51,468 in Waco. Median household income is $22,251/year higher in Denton.
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 Denton or Waco?
It depends on your priorities. Denton has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,344/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.
View Denton details → View Waco details →

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