Cost of Living: Hampton, VA vs Lakeland, FL (2026)

Hampton

Virginia
88
VS

Lakeland

Florida
82

Hampton is 7% more expensive than Lakeland.

$1,346/mo ↑ 4%
Median Rent
$1,299/mo ↓ 3%
$67,758/yr ↑ 11%
Median Income
$60,947/yr ↓ 10%
$234,100 ↑ 2%
Home Value
$229,100 ↓ 2%
$1,347/mo ↑ 17%
Owner Costs
$1,149/mo ↓ 15%
137,334
Population
117,030

Tax Comparison

5.75%
Income Tax
0%
5.3%
State Sales Tax
6.0%
0.8%
Property Tax
0.86%

Affordability

23.8%
rent-to-income
Affordability
25.6%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Hampton, VA and Lakeland, FL, the overall cost of living indices are 88 and 82 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $6,811/year higher in Hampton. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Hampton is $234,100 compared to $229,100 in Lakeland.

Florida has no state income tax, giving Lakeland residents a significant tax advantage over Virginia's 5.75% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Hampton vs Lakeland — common questions

Is Hampton or Lakeland cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Lakeland is cheaper to live in with an index of 82 compared to 88 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Hampton and Lakeland?
Median rent in Hampton is $1,346/month and in Lakeland it's $1,299/month — a difference of $47/month.
Which city has higher income, Hampton or Lakeland?
Median household income is $67,758 in Hampton and $60,947 in Lakeland. Median household income is $6,811/year higher in Hampton.
How do taxes compare between Virginia and Florida?
Virginia has 5.75% income tax, 5.3% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. Florida has 0% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.86% property tax.
Should I move to Hampton or Lakeland?
It depends on your priorities. Hampton has a cost index of 88 with median rent of $1,346/mo, while Lakeland has a cost index of 82 with rent of $1,299/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Hampton details → View Lakeland details →

More Comparisons

Other cost of living comparisons for Hampton and Lakeland

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