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

Lubbock

Texas
75
VS

Waco

Texas
72

Lubbock is 4% more expensive than Waco.

$1,137/mo ↑ 4%
Median Rent
$1,098/mo ↓ 3%
$60,487/yr ↑ 18%
Median Income
$51,468/yr ↓ 15%
$197,900 ≈ Same
Home Value
$199,600 ≈ Same
$1,179/mo ↑ 8%
Owner Costs
$1,094/mo ↓ 7%
261,078
Population
141,925

Tax Comparison

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

Affordability

22.6%
rent-to-income
Affordability
25.6%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Lubbock, TX and Waco, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 75 and 72 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $9,019/year higher in Lubbock. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Lubbock is $197,900 compared to $199,600 in Waco.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Lubbock vs Waco — common questions

Is Lubbock or Waco cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Waco is cheaper to live in with an index of 72 compared to 75 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Lubbock and Waco?
Median rent in Lubbock is $1,137/month and in Waco it's $1,098/month — a difference of $39/month.
Which city has higher income, Lubbock or Waco?
Median household income is $60,487 in Lubbock and $51,468 in Waco. Median household income is $9,019/year higher in Lubbock.
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 Lubbock or Waco?
It depends on your priorities. Lubbock has a cost index of 75 with median rent of $1,137/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 Lubbock details → View Waco details →

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