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

Newport News

Virginia

Chattanooga

Tennessee

Newport News is 6% more expensive than Chattanooga.

$1,285/mo ↑ 11%

Median Rent

$1,155/mo ↓ 10%

$66,718/yr ↑ 9%

Median Income

$61,028/yr ↓ 9%

$243,300 ↓ 6%

Home Value

$259,200 ↑ 7%

$1,328/mo ↑ 19%

Owner Costs

$1,112/mo ↓ 16%

184,774

Population

182,832

Tax Comparison

5.75%

Income Tax

5.3%

Sales Tax

7.0%

0.8%

Property Tax

0.64%

Affordability

23.1%

rent-to-income

Affordability

22.7%

rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Newport News, VA and Chattanooga, TN, the overall cost of living indices are 87 and 81 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $130/month cheaper in Chattanooga, saving renters about $1,560/year.

Median household income is $5,690/year higher in Newport News. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Newport News is $243,300 compared to $259,200 in Chattanooga.

Tennessee has no state income tax, giving Chattanooga residents a significant tax advantage over Virginia's 5.75% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Newport News vs Chattanooga — common questions

Is Newport News or Chattanooga cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Chattanooga is cheaper to live in with an index of 81 compared to 87 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Newport News and Chattanooga?

Median rent in Newport News is $1,285/month and in Chattanooga it's $1,155/month — a difference of $130/month.

Which city has higher income, Newport News or Chattanooga?

Median household income is $66,718 in Newport News and $61,028 in Chattanooga. Median household income is $5,690/year higher in Newport News.

How do taxes compare between Virginia and Tennessee?

Virginia has 5.75% income tax, 5.3% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. Tennessee has 0% income tax, 7.0% sales tax, and 0.64% property tax.

Should I move to Newport News or Chattanooga?

It depends on your priorities. Newport News has a cost index of 87 with median rent of $1,285/mo, while Chattanooga has a cost index of 81 with rent of $1,155/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.