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

Newport News

Virginia
87
VS

Carlsbad

California
253

Newport News is 66% cheaper than Carlsbad.

$1,285/mo ↓ 52%
Median Rent
$2,678/mo ↑ 108%
$66,718/yr ↓ 52%
Median Income
$139,326/yr ↑ 109%
$243,300 ↓ 79%
Home Value
$1,156,900 ↑ 376%
$1,328/mo ↓ 53%
Owner Costs
$2,801/mo ↑ 111%
184,774
Population
114,500

Tax Comparison

5.75%
Income Tax
13.3%
5.3%
State Sales Tax
7.25%
0.8%
Property Tax
0.71%

Affordability

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

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Newport News, VA and Carlsbad, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 87 and 253 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,393/month cheaper in Newport News, saving renters about $16,716/year.

Median household income is $72,608/year higher in Carlsbad. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Newport News is $243,300 compared to $1,156,900 in Carlsbad.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Newport News vs Carlsbad — common questions

Is Newport News or Carlsbad cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Newport News is cheaper to live in with an index of 87 compared to 253 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Newport News and Carlsbad?
Median rent in Newport News is $1,285/month and in Carlsbad it's $2,678/month — a difference of $1,393/month.
Which city has higher income, Newport News or Carlsbad?
Median household income is $66,718 in Newport News and $139,326 in Carlsbad. Median household income is $72,608/year higher in Carlsbad.
How do taxes compare between Virginia and California?
Virginia has 5.75% income tax, 5.3% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.
Should I move to Newport News or Carlsbad?
It depends on your priorities. Newport News has a cost index of 87 with median rent of $1,285/mo, while Carlsbad has a cost index of 253 with rent of $2,678/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Newport News details → View Carlsbad details →

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