Long Beach, CA vs Arlington, VA: 169 vs 203

$1,803/mo ↓ 21%

Median Rent

$2,275/mo ↑ 26%

$83,969/yr ↓ 40%

Median Income

$140,160/yr ↑ 67%

$762,200 ↓ 12%

Home Value

$864,800 ↑ 13%

$1,890/mo ↓ 22%

Owner Costs

$2,414/mo ↑ 28%

458,491

Population

235,463

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Long Beach, CA and Arlington, VA, the overall cost of living indices are 169 and 203 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $472/month cheaper in Long Beach, saving renters about $5,664/year.

Median household income is $56,191/year higher in Arlington. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Long Beach is $762,200 compared to $864,800 in Arlington.

Virginia has a lower income tax rate, making Arlington slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Long Beach vs Arlington — common questions

Is Long Beach or Arlington cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Long Beach is cheaper to live in with an index of 169 compared to 203 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Long Beach and Arlington?

Median rent in Long Beach is $1,803/month and in Arlington it's $2,275/month — a difference of $472/month.

Which city has higher income, Long Beach or Arlington?

Median household income is $83,969 in Long Beach and $140,160 in Arlington. Median household income is $56,191/year higher in Arlington.

How do taxes compare between California and Virginia?

California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax. Virginia has 5.75% income tax, 5.3% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax.

Should I move to Long Beach or Arlington?

It depends on your priorities. Long Beach has a cost index of 169 with median rent of $1,803/mo, while Arlington has a cost index of 203 with rent of $2,275/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Long Beach, CA vs Arlington, VA (2026)

Long Beach

Arlington

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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