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

Newport News

Virginia
87
VS

Allentown

Pennsylvania
79

Newport News is 10% more expensive than Allentown.

$1,285/mo ↑ 1%
Median Rent
$1,269/mo ↓ 1%
$66,718/yr ↑ 25%
Median Income
$53,403/yr ↓ 20%
$243,300 ↑ 29%
Home Value
$188,900 ↓ 22%
$1,328/mo ↑ 7%
Owner Costs
$1,243/mo ↓ 6%
184,774
Population
125,320

Tax Comparison

5.75%
Income Tax
3.07%
5.3%
State Sales Tax
6.0%
0.8%
Property Tax
1.49%

Affordability

23.1%
rent-to-income
Affordability
28.5%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Newport News, VA and Allentown, PA, the overall cost of living indices are 87 and 79 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $13,315/year higher in Newport News. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Newport News is $243,300 compared to $188,900 in Allentown.

Pennsylvania has a lower income tax rate, making Allentown slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Newport News vs Allentown — common questions

Is Newport News or Allentown cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Allentown is cheaper to live in with an index of 79 compared to 87 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Newport News and Allentown?
Median rent in Newport News is $1,285/month and in Allentown it's $1,269/month — a difference of $16/month.
Which city has higher income, Newport News or Allentown?
Median household income is $66,718 in Newport News and $53,403 in Allentown. Median household income is $13,315/year higher in Newport News.
How do taxes compare between Virginia and Pennsylvania?
Virginia has 5.75% income tax, 5.3% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. Pennsylvania has 3.07% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.49% property tax.
Should I move to Newport News or Allentown?
It depends on your priorities. Newport News has a cost index of 87 with median rent of $1,285/mo, while Allentown has a cost index of 79 with rent of $1,269/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Newport News details → View Allentown details →

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