Durham, NC vs Newport News, VA: 105 vs 87

$1,412/mo ↑ 10%

Median Rent

$1,285/mo ↓ 9%

$79,234/yr ↑ 19%

Median Income

$66,718/yr ↓ 16%

$355,300 ↑ 46%

Home Value

$243,300 ↓ 32%

$1,434/mo ↑ 8%

Owner Costs

$1,328/mo ↓ 7%

288,465

Population

184,774

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Durham, NC and Newport News, VA, the overall cost of living indices are 105 and 87 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $127/month cheaper in Newport News, saving renters about $1,524/year.

Median household income is $12,516/year higher in Durham. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Durham is $355,300 compared to $243,300 in Newport News.

North Carolina has a lower income tax rate, making Durham slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Durham vs Newport News — common questions

Is Durham or Newport News cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Newport News is cheaper to live in with an index of 87 compared to 105 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Durham and Newport News?

Median rent in Durham is $1,412/month and in Newport News it's $1,285/month — a difference of $127/month.

Which city has higher income, Durham or Newport News?

Median household income is $79,234 in Durham and $66,718 in Newport News. Median household income is $12,516/year higher in Durham.

How do taxes compare between North Carolina and Virginia?

North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. Virginia has 5.75% income tax, 5.3% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax.

Should I move to Durham or Newport News?

It depends on your priorities. Durham has a cost index of 105 with median rent of $1,412/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.

Cost of Living: Durham, NC vs Newport News, VA (2026)

Durham

Newport News

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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