Cost of Living: Waco, TX vs Norman, OK (2026)

Waco

Texas
72
VS

Norman

Oklahoma
76

Waco is 5% cheaper than Norman.

$1,098/mo ↑ 3%
Median Rent
$1,064/mo ↓ 3%
$51,468/yr ↓ 21%
Median Income
$65,060/yr ↑ 26%
$199,600 ↓ 17%
Home Value
$239,300 ↑ 20%
$1,094/mo ↓ 2%
Owner Costs
$1,121/mo ↑ 2%
141,925
Population
128,714

Tax Comparison

0%
Income Tax
4.75%
6.25%
State Sales Tax
4.5%
1.6%
Property Tax
0.9%

Affordability

25.6%
rent-to-income
Affordability
19.6%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

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

Median household income is $13,592/year higher in Norman. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Waco is $199,600 compared to $239,300 in Norman.

Texas has no state income tax, giving Waco residents a significant tax advantage over Oklahoma's 4.75% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Waco vs Norman — common questions

Is Waco or Norman 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 Waco and Norman?
Median rent in Waco is $1,098/month and in Norman it's $1,064/month — a difference of $34/month.
Which city has higher income, Waco or Norman?
Median household income is $51,468 in Waco and $65,060 in Norman. Median household income is $13,592/year higher in Norman.
How do taxes compare between Texas and Oklahoma?
Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax. Oklahoma has 4.75% income tax, 4.5% sales tax, and 0.9% property tax.
Should I move to Waco or Norman?
It depends on your priorities. Waco has a cost index of 72 with median rent of $1,098/mo, while Norman has a cost index of 76 with rent of $1,064/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Waco details → View Norman details →

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