Cost of Living: Akron, OH vs Newport News, VA (2026)

Akron

Ohio
55
VS

Newport News

Virginia
87

Akron is 32% cheaper than Newport News.

$930/mo ↓ 28%
Median Rent
$1,285/mo ↑ 38%
$48,544/yr ↓ 27%
Median Income
$66,718/yr ↑ 37%
$111,200 ↓ 54%
Home Value
$243,300 ↑ 119%
$904/mo ↓ 32%
Owner Costs
$1,328/mo ↑ 47%
189,526
Population
184,774

Tax Comparison

3.5%
Income Tax
5.75%
5.75%
Sales Tax
5.3%
1.53%
Property Tax
0.8%

Affordability

23.0%
rent-to-income
Affordability
23.1%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Akron, OH and Newport News, VA, the overall cost of living indices are 55 and 87 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $355/month cheaper in Akron, saving renters about $4,260/year.

Median household income is $18,174/year higher in Newport News. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Akron is $111,200 compared to $243,300 in Newport News.

Ohio has a lower income tax rate, making Akron slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Akron vs Newport News — common questions

Is Akron or Newport News cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Akron is cheaper to live in with an index of 55 compared to 87 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Akron and Newport News?
Median rent in Akron is $930/month and in Newport News it's $1,285/month — a difference of $355/month.
Which city has higher income, Akron or Newport News?
Median household income is $48,544 in Akron and $66,718 in Newport News. Median household income is $18,174/year higher in Newport News.
How do taxes compare between Ohio and Virginia?
Ohio has 3.5% income tax, 5.75% sales tax, and 1.53% property tax. Virginia has 5.75% income tax, 5.3% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax.
Should I move to Akron or Newport News?
It depends on your priorities. Akron has a cost index of 55 with median rent of $930/mo, while Newport News has a cost index of 87 with rent of $1,285/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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