Tacoma, WA vs Waco, TX: 126 vs 72

$1,597/mo ↑ 45%

Median Rent

$1,098/mo ↓ 31%

$83,857/yr ↑ 63%

Median Income

$51,468/yr ↓ 39%

$454,600 ↑ 128%

Home Value

$199,600 ↓ 56%

$1,747/mo ↑ 60%

Owner Costs

$1,094/mo ↓ 37%

220,482

Population

141,925

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Tacoma, WA and Waco, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 126 and 72 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $499/month cheaper in Waco, saving renters about $5,988/year.

Median household income is $32,389/year higher in Tacoma. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Tacoma is $454,600 compared to $199,600 in Waco.

Frequently Asked Questions

Tacoma vs Waco — common questions

Is Tacoma or Waco cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Waco is cheaper to live in with an index of 72 compared to 126 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Tacoma and Waco?

Median rent in Tacoma is $1,597/month and in Waco it's $1,098/month — a difference of $499/month.

Which city has higher income, Tacoma or Waco?

Median household income is $83,857 in Tacoma and $51,468 in Waco. Median household income is $32,389/year higher in Tacoma.

How do taxes compare between Washington and Texas?

Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax. Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax.

Should I move to Tacoma or Waco?

It depends on your priorities. Tacoma has a cost index of 126 with median rent of $1,597/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: Tacoma, WA vs Waco, TX (2026)

Tacoma

Waco

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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