Cost of Living: Arlington, VA vs Norfolk, VA (2026)

Arlington

Virginia
203
VS

Norfolk

Virginia
89

Arlington is 128% more expensive than Norfolk.

$2,275/mo ↑ 83%
Median Rent
$1,246/mo ↓ 45%
$140,160/yr ↑ 119%
Median Income
$64,017/yr ↓ 54%
$864,800 ↑ 218%
Home Value
$271,900 ↓ 69%
$2,414/mo ↑ 77%
Owner Costs
$1,366/mo ↓ 43%
235,463
Population
235,037

Tax Comparison

5.75%
Income Tax
5.75%
5.3%
State Sales Tax
5.3%
0.8%
Property Tax
0.8%

Affordability

19.5%
rent-to-income
Affordability
23.4%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Arlington, VA and Norfolk, VA, the overall cost of living indices are 203 and 89 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,029/month cheaper in Norfolk, saving renters about $12,348/year.

Median household income is $76,143/year higher in Arlington. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Arlington is $864,800 compared to $271,900 in Norfolk.

Both cities share the same state tax structure since they are in Virginia.

Frequently Asked Questions

Arlington vs Norfolk — common questions

Is Arlington or Norfolk cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Norfolk is cheaper to live in with an index of 89 compared to 203 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Arlington and Norfolk?
Median rent in Arlington is $2,275/month and in Norfolk it's $1,246/month — a difference of $1,029/month.
Which city has higher income, Arlington or Norfolk?
Median household income is $140,160 in Arlington and $64,017 in Norfolk. Median household income is $76,143/year higher in Arlington.
How do taxes compare between Virginia and Virginia?
Both cities are in Virginia and share the same state tax rates: 5.75% income tax, 5.3% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax.
Should I move to Arlington or Norfolk?
It depends on your priorities. Arlington has a cost index of 203 with median rent of $2,275/mo, while Norfolk has a cost index of 89 with rent of $1,246/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Arlington details → View Norfolk details →

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