Modesto, CA vs Newport News, VA: 120 vs 87

$1,609/mo ↑ 25%

Median Rent

$1,285/mo ↓ 20%

$77,899/yr ↑ 17%

Median Income

$66,718/yr ↓ 14%

$415,600 ↑ 71%

Home Value

$243,300 ↓ 41%

$1,613/mo ↑ 21%

Owner Costs

$1,328/mo ↓ 18%

218,614

Population

184,774

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Modesto, CA and Newport News, VA, the overall cost of living indices are 120 and 87 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $324/month cheaper in Newport News, saving renters about $3,888/year.

Median household income is $11,181/year higher in Modesto. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Modesto is $415,600 compared to $243,300 in Newport News.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Modesto vs Newport News — common questions

Is Modesto 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 120 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Modesto and Newport News?

Median rent in Modesto is $1,609/month and in Newport News it's $1,285/month — a difference of $324/month.

Which city has higher income, Modesto or Newport News?

Median household income is $77,899 in Modesto and $66,718 in Newport News. Median household income is $11,181/year higher in Modesto.

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 Modesto or Newport News?

It depends on your priorities. Modesto has a cost index of 120 with median rent of $1,609/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: Modesto, CA vs Newport News, VA (2026)

Modesto

Newport News

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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