Waco (index: 82) vs Round Rock (index: 102) — a 20% gap that plays out differently depending on what you earn, where you work, and how you spend. This isn't just a table of numbers. We've analyzed which city works better for renters, homeowners, families, remote workers, and small business owners.
Waco is the more affordable choice between Waco and Round Rock, with a 20% lower overall cost index. Waco has the recurring monthly cost edge at roughly $2,048/mo, while Round Rock has the stronger salary-side advantage.
This comparison separates lower living costs from higher salary potential so a move decision does not over-credit one number. Use the cards below to see the main trade-offs before going into the full category table.
Waco is ahead on recurring modeled costs, or about $24,576/yr.
Waco wins 45 total categories; Round Rock wins 17. Salary categories are judged by higher pay.
ACS median household income differs by about $53,312 between the two cities.
ACS median gross rent is separated by about $661/mo.
Overall Cost of Living Comparison
| Category | Waco | Round Rock | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall | A | B | Waco +1pts |
| Housing | A+ | C+ | Waco +2pts |
| Food | A | B | Tie |
| Healthcare | A | B | Tie |
| Transportation | A | B | Tie |
| Utilities | B+ | B | Tie |
Rent, Food, and Utility Differences
Housing
Housing costs are primarily driven by local real estate markets and land values.
Food & Groceries
Food & Groceries costs are primarily driven by local supply chains and regional agriculture.
Healthcare
Healthcare costs are primarily driven by local provider networks and state regulations.
Transportation
Transportation costs are primarily driven by local public transit availability and fuel costs.
Utilities
Utilities costs are primarily driven by local energy sources and climate demands.
Services
Services costs are primarily driven by local labor markets and demand density.
Key Cost Comparisons
Cost of Living
Home Services
Business Startup Costs
Insurance
Legal Services
Salaries & Jobs
Which City Gives You More Buying Power?
The "better" city depends on your situation. Here's how different profiles stack up:
Remote Worker
→ WacoIf your salary doesn't depend on location, Waco's 20% lower costs translate directly into more savings or disposable income. Your paycheck goes further without a pay cut.
Young Professional
→ WacoBoth cities are moderately priced, but Waco's lower costs help you build savings earlier in your career when compound growth matters most.
Family with Kids
→ WacoFamilies face multiplied costs — housing, groceries, healthcare, and transportation all scale with household size. Waco's 20% advantage compounds across every budget category.
Small Business Owner
→ WacoLower operating costs in Waco mean lower break-even points. Rent, utilities, insurance, and labor all come in cheaper, giving new businesses more runway to reach profitability.
Retiree
→ WacoOn a fixed income, every percentage point matters. Waco's lower healthcare, housing, and everyday costs help retirement savings last longer.
Salary Equivalent Between Cities
Waco has the lower overall cost index and wins 42 non-salary cost categories.Round Rock has the stronger salary edge across 7 salary categories, so wages are shown separately from affordability.
Move Decision Checklist
- Compare rent first: it is usually the biggest swing item between Waco and Round Rock.
- Do not mix salary and affordability: use Round Rock for pay leverage and Waco for spending power.
- Run the move-shock and salary-needed pages before committing to deposits, movers, or a lease.
Explore Each City
Explore Specific Costs
Dive deeper into specific cost topics for each city:
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Frequently Asked Questions
Should I move from Round Rock to Waco?
If your income stays the same or comparable, moving from Round Rock to Waco gives you 20% more purchasing power. That said, the decision depends on career opportunities, family ties, lifestyle preferences, and which specific costs matter most to your household. Review the category breakdown above to see which line items shift the most.
How do housing costs compare between Waco and Round Rock?
Housing is typically the biggest cost difference between these cities. Waco (index: 82) and Round Rock (index: 102) differ by 20% overall, with housing costs often diverging even more than the average. Check the Cost of Living section above for specific figures.
Is Waco or Round Rock more affordable in 2026?
Waco is 20% more affordable than Round Rock overall. Waco wins 45 out of 62 cost categories. However, Round Rock may offer higher salaries in certain industries that can offset higher living costs.
What is the cost of living index for Waco vs Round Rock?
Waco's cost of living index is 82; Round Rock's is 102. A score of 100 represents the national average. Waco is below average; Round Rock is above average. These figures are derived from BLS and Census data.
About This Comparison
Limitations: ACS values are official citywide estimates, while some category costs remain modeled. Actual costs may vary by neighborhood, provider, timing, and household needs. Salary data reflects median full-time employment; contract and freelance rates differ. Last updated: May 2026.