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

Newport News

Virginia
87
VS

Clearwater

Florida
105

Newport News is 17% cheaper than Clearwater.

$1,285/mo ↓ 17%
Median Rent
$1,539/mo ↑ 20%
$66,718/yr ↑ 4%
Median Income
$64,440/yr ↓ 3%
$243,300 ↓ 25%
Home Value
$326,100 ↑ 34%
$1,328/mo ↓ 6%
Owner Costs
$1,411/mo ↑ 6%
184,774
Population
117,075

Tax Comparison

5.75%
Income Tax
0%
5.3%
State Sales Tax
6.0%
0.8%
Property Tax
0.86%

Affordability

23.1%
rent-to-income
Affordability
28.7%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Newport News, VA and Clearwater, FL, the overall cost of living indices are 87 and 105 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $254/month cheaper in Newport News, saving renters about $3,048/year.

Median household income is $2,278/year higher in Newport News. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Newport News is $243,300 compared to $326,100 in Clearwater.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Newport News vs Clearwater — common questions

Is Newport News or Clearwater cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Newport News is cheaper to live in with an index of 87 compared to 105 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Newport News and Clearwater?
Median rent in Newport News is $1,285/month and in Clearwater it's $1,539/month — a difference of $254/month.
Which city has higher income, Newport News or Clearwater?
Median household income is $66,718 in Newport News and $64,440 in Clearwater. Median household income is $2,278/year higher in Newport News.
How do taxes compare between Virginia and Florida?
Virginia has 5.75% income tax, 5.3% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. Florida has 0% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.86% property tax.
Should I move to Newport News or Clearwater?
It depends on your priorities. Newport News has a cost index of 87 with median rent of $1,285/mo, while Clearwater has a cost index of 105 with rent of $1,539/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Newport News details → View Clearwater details →

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