Waco, TX vs Carlsbad, CA: 72 vs 253

$1,098/mo ↓ 59%

Median Rent

$2,678/mo ↑ 144%

$51,468/yr ↓ 63%

Median Income

$139,326/yr ↑ 171%

$199,600 ↓ 83%

Home Value

$1,156,900 ↑ 480%

$1,094/mo ↓ 61%

Owner Costs

$2,801/mo ↑ 156%

141,925

Population

114,500

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Waco, TX and Carlsbad, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 72 and 253 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,580/month cheaper in Waco, saving renters about $18,960/year.

Median household income is $87,858/year higher in Carlsbad. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Waco is $199,600 compared to $1,156,900 in Carlsbad.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Waco vs Carlsbad — common questions

Is Waco or Carlsbad cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Waco is cheaper to live in with an index of 72 compared to 253 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Waco and Carlsbad?

Median rent in Waco is $1,098/month and in Carlsbad it's $2,678/month — a difference of $1,580/month.

Which city has higher income, Waco or Carlsbad?

Median household income is $51,468 in Waco and $139,326 in Carlsbad. Median household income is $87,858/year higher in Carlsbad.

How do taxes compare between Texas and California?

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

Should I move to Waco or Carlsbad?

It depends on your priorities. Waco has a cost index of 72 with median rent of $1,098/mo, while Carlsbad has a cost index of 253 with rent of $2,678/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Waco, TX vs Carlsbad, CA (2026)

Waco

Carlsbad

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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