Cost of Living: Tucson, AZ vs Waco, TX (2026)

Tucson

Arizona
76
VS

Waco

Texas
72

Tucson is 6% more expensive than Waco.

$1,079/mo ↓ 2%
Median Rent
$1,098/mo ↑ 2%
$54,546/yr ↑ 6%
Median Income
$51,468/yr ↓ 6%
$242,200 ↑ 21%
Home Value
$199,600 ↓ 18%
$1,076/mo ↓ 2%
Owner Costs
$1,094/mo ↑ 2%
543,348
Population
141,925

Tax Comparison

2.5%
Income Tax
0%
5.6%
State Sales Tax
6.25%
0.62%
Property Tax
1.6%

Affordability

23.7%
rent-to-income
Affordability
25.6%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Tucson, AZ and Waco, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 76 and 72 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $3,078/year higher in Tucson. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Tucson is $242,200 compared to $199,600 in Waco.

Texas has no state income tax, giving Waco residents a significant tax advantage over Arizona's 2.5% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Tucson vs Waco — common questions

Is Tucson or Waco cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Waco is cheaper to live in with an index of 72 compared to 76 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Tucson and Waco?
Median rent in Tucson is $1,079/month and in Waco it's $1,098/month — a difference of $19/month.
Which city has higher income, Tucson or Waco?
Median household income is $54,546 in Tucson and $51,468 in Waco. Median household income is $3,078/year higher in Tucson.
How do taxes compare between Arizona and Texas?
Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax. Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax.
Should I move to Tucson or Waco?
It depends on your priorities. Tucson has a cost index of 76 with median rent of $1,079/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 Tucson details → View Waco details →

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