Waco, TX vs Downey, CA: 72 vs 169

$1,098/mo ↓ 42%

Median Rent

$1,892/mo ↑ 72%

$51,468/yr ↓ 41%

Median Income

$87,400/yr ↑ 70%

$199,600 ↓ 73%

Home Value

$728,500 ↑ 265%

$1,094/mo ↓ 45%

Owner Costs

$1,997/mo ↑ 83%

141,925

Population

111,793

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Waco, TX and Downey, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 72 and 169 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $794/month cheaper in Waco, saving renters about $9,528/year.

Median household income is $35,932/year higher in Downey. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Waco is $199,600 compared to $728,500 in Downey.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Waco vs Downey — common questions

Is Waco or Downey cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Waco is cheaper to live in with an index of 72 compared to 169 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Waco and Downey?

Median rent in Waco is $1,098/month and in Downey it's $1,892/month — a difference of $794/month.

Which city has higher income, Waco or Downey?

Median household income is $51,468 in Waco and $87,400 in Downey. Median household income is $35,932/year higher in Downey.

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 Downey?

It depends on your priorities. Waco has a cost index of 72 with median rent of $1,098/mo, while Downey has a cost index of 169 with rent of $1,892/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Waco

Downey

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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