Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
13% cheaper
Plano is 13% more affordable than Worcester. A $75,000 salary in Worcester is equivalent to $65,400 in Plano.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Texas salaries · Massachusetts salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Plano has a housing index of 123 while Worcester sits at 152 (national average = 100). The median home in Plano costs $400,000 compared to $340,000 in Worcester, a difference of $60,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,700 in Plano versus $1,600 in Worcester.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Plano scores 98 while Worcester scores 106.
Healthcare costs in Plano (100) are lower than Worcester (115).
Median household income in Plano is $96,348 compared to $52,228 in Worcester. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Plano.
Amazon affiliate links