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

Garland

Texas
96
VS

Waco

Texas
72

Garland is 33% more expensive than Waco.

$1,525/mo ↑ 39%
Median Rent
$1,098/mo ↓ 28%
$74,717/yr ↑ 45%
Median Income
$51,468/yr ↓ 31%
$248,900 ↑ 25%
Home Value
$199,600 ↓ 20%
$1,445/mo ↑ 32%
Owner Costs
$1,094/mo ↓ 24%
245,298
Population
141,925

Tax Comparison

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

Affordability

24.5%
rent-to-income
Affordability
25.6%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Garland, TX and Waco, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 96 and 72 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $427/month cheaper in Waco, saving renters about $5,124/year.

Median household income is $23,249/year higher in Garland. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Garland is $248,900 compared to $199,600 in Waco.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Garland vs Waco — common questions

Is Garland or Waco cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Waco is cheaper to live in with an index of 72 compared to 96 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Garland and Waco?
Median rent in Garland is $1,525/month and in Waco it's $1,098/month — a difference of $427/month.
Which city has higher income, Garland or Waco?
Median household income is $74,717 in Garland and $51,468 in Waco. Median household income is $23,249/year higher in Garland.
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 Garland or Waco?
It depends on your priorities. Garland has a cost index of 96 with median rent of $1,525/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 Garland details → View Waco details →

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