San Diego, CA vs Waco, TX: 197 vs 72

$2,223/mo ↑ 102%

Median Rent

$1,098/mo ↓ 51%

$104,321/yr ↑ 103%

Median Income

$51,468/yr ↓ 51%

$848,500 ↑ 325%

Home Value

$199,600 ↓ 76%

$2,308/mo ↑ 111%

Owner Costs

$1,094/mo ↓ 53%

1,385,061

Population

141,925

Detailed Comparison

When comparing San Diego, CA and Waco, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 197 and 72 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,125/month cheaper in Waco, saving renters about $13,500/year.

Median household income is $52,853/year higher in San Diego. Home values also differ significantly — the median in San Diego is $848,500 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

San Diego vs Waco — common questions

Is San Diego or Waco cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Waco is cheaper to live in with an index of 72 compared to 197 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between San Diego and Waco?

Median rent in San Diego is $2,223/month and in Waco it's $1,098/month — a difference of $1,125/month.

Which city has higher income, San Diego or Waco?

Median household income is $104,321 in San Diego and $51,468 in Waco. Median household income is $52,853/year higher in San Diego.

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 San Diego or Waco?

It depends on your priorities. San Diego has a cost index of 197 with median rent of $2,223/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: San Diego, CA vs Waco, TX (2026)

San Diego

Waco

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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