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

Newport News

Virginia
87
VS

Alexandria

Virginia
173

Newport News is 50% cheaper than Alexandria.

$1,285/mo ↓ 37%
Median Rent
$2,031/mo ↑ 58%
$66,718/yr ↓ 41%
Median Income
$113,638/yr ↑ 70%
$243,300 ↓ 65%
Home Value
$696,800 ↑ 186%
$1,328/mo ↓ 39%
Owner Costs
$2,173/mo ↑ 64%
184,774
Population
156,788

Tax Comparison

5.75%
Income Tax
5.75%
5.3%
State Sales Tax
5.3%
0.8%
Property Tax
0.8%

Affordability

23.1%
rent-to-income
Affordability
21.4%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Newport News, VA and Alexandria, VA, the overall cost of living indices are 87 and 173 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $746/month cheaper in Newport News, saving renters about $8,952/year.

Median household income is $46,920/year higher in Alexandria. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Newport News is $243,300 compared to $696,800 in Alexandria.

Both cities share the same state tax structure since they are in Virginia.

Frequently Asked Questions

Newport News vs Alexandria — common questions

Is Newport News or Alexandria cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Newport News is cheaper to live in with an index of 87 compared to 173 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Newport News and Alexandria?
Median rent in Newport News is $1,285/month and in Alexandria it's $2,031/month — a difference of $746/month.
Which city has higher income, Newport News or Alexandria?
Median household income is $66,718 in Newport News and $113,638 in Alexandria. Median household income is $46,920/year higher in Alexandria.
How do taxes compare between Virginia and Virginia?
Both cities are in Virginia and share the same state tax rates: 5.75% income tax, 5.3% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax.
Should I move to Newport News or Alexandria?
It depends on your priorities. Newport News has a cost index of 87 with median rent of $1,285/mo, while Alexandria has a cost index of 173 with rent of $2,031/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Newport News details → View Alexandria details →

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