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

Houston

Texas
88
VS

Waco

Texas
72

Houston is 22% more expensive than Waco.

$1,313/mo ↑ 20%
Median Rent
$1,098/mo ↓ 16%
$62,894/yr ↑ 22%
Median Income
$51,468/yr ↓ 18%
$253,400 ↑ 27%
Home Value
$199,600 ↓ 21%
$1,316/mo ↑ 20%
Owner Costs
$1,094/mo ↓ 17%
2,300,419
Population
141,925

Tax Comparison

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

Affordability

25.1%
rent-to-income
Affordability
25.6%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Houston, TX and Waco, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 88 and 72 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $215/month cheaper in Waco, saving renters about $2,580/year.

Median household income is $11,426/year higher in Houston. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Houston is $253,400 compared to $199,600 in Waco.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Houston vs Waco — common questions

Is Houston or Waco cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Waco is cheaper to live in with an index of 72 compared to 88 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Houston and Waco?
Median rent in Houston is $1,313/month and in Waco it's $1,098/month — a difference of $215/month.
Which city has higher income, Houston or Waco?
Median household income is $62,894 in Houston and $51,468 in Waco. Median household income is $11,426/year higher in Houston.
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 Houston or Waco?
It depends on your priorities. Houston has a cost index of 88 with median rent of $1,313/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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