Long Beach, CA vs Waco, TX: 169 vs 72

$1,803/mo ↑ 64%

Median Rent

$1,098/mo ↓ 39%

$83,969/yr ↑ 63%

Median Income

$51,468/yr ↓ 39%

$762,200 ↑ 282%

Home Value

$199,600 ↓ 74%

$1,890/mo ↑ 73%

Owner Costs

$1,094/mo ↓ 42%

458,491

Population

141,925

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Long Beach, CA and Waco, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 169 and 72 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $705/month cheaper in Waco, saving renters about $8,460/year.

Median household income is $32,501/year higher in Long Beach. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Long Beach is $762,200 compared to $199,600 in Waco.

Texas has no state income tax, giving Waco residents a significant tax advantage over California's 13.3% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Long Beach vs Waco — common questions

Is Long Beach or Waco cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Waco is cheaper to live in with an index of 72 compared to 169 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Long Beach and Waco?

Median rent in Long Beach is $1,803/month and in Waco it's $1,098/month — a difference of $705/month.

Which city has higher income, Long Beach or Waco?

Median household income is $83,969 in Long Beach and $51,468 in Waco. Median household income is $32,501/year higher in Long Beach.

How do taxes compare between California and Texas?

California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax. Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax.

Should I move to Long Beach or Waco?

It depends on your priorities. Long Beach has a cost index of 169 with median rent of $1,803/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: Long Beach, CA vs Waco, TX (2026)

Long Beach

Waco

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons