Madison, WI vs Newport News, VA: 103 vs 87

$1,364/mo ↑ 6%

Median Rent

$1,285/mo ↓ 6%

$76,983/yr ↑ 15%

Median Income

$66,718/yr ↓ 13%

$346,900 ↑ 43%

Home Value

$243,300 ↓ 30%

$1,476/mo ↑ 11%

Owner Costs

$1,328/mo ↓ 10%

275,568

Population

184,774

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Madison, WI and Newport News, VA, the overall cost of living indices are 103 and 87 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $79/month cheaper in Newport News, saving renters about $948/year.

Median household income is $10,265/year higher in Madison. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Madison is $346,900 compared to $243,300 in Newport News.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Madison vs Newport News — common questions

Is Madison 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 103 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Madison and Newport News?

Median rent in Madison is $1,364/month and in Newport News it's $1,285/month — a difference of $79/month.

Which city has higher income, Madison or Newport News?

Median household income is $76,983 in Madison and $66,718 in Newport News. Median household income is $10,265/year higher in Madison.

How do taxes compare between Wisconsin and Virginia?

Wisconsin has 7.65% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 1.61% property tax. Virginia has 5.75% income tax, 5.3% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax.

Should I move to Madison or Newport News?

It depends on your priorities. Madison has a cost index of 103 with median rent of $1,364/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: Madison, WI vs Newport News, VA (2026)

Madison

Newport News

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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