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

Newport News

Virginia
87
VS

Costa Mesa

California
228

Newport News is 62% cheaper than Costa Mesa.

$1,285/mo ↓ 46%
Median Rent
$2,395/mo ↑ 86%
$66,718/yr ↓ 39%
Median Income
$110,073/yr ↑ 65%
$243,300 ↓ 77%
Home Value
$1,054,700 ↑ 333%
$1,328/mo ↓ 46%
Owner Costs
$2,462/mo ↑ 85%
184,774
Population
110,538

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
26.1%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Newport News, VA and Costa Mesa, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 87 and 228 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,110/month cheaper in Newport News, saving renters about $13,320/year.

Median household income is $43,355/year higher in Costa Mesa. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Newport News is $243,300 compared to $1,054,700 in Costa Mesa.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Newport News vs Costa Mesa — common questions

Is Newport News or Costa Mesa cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Newport News is cheaper to live in with an index of 87 compared to 228 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Newport News and Costa Mesa?
Median rent in Newport News is $1,285/month and in Costa Mesa it's $2,395/month — a difference of $1,110/month.
Which city has higher income, Newport News or Costa Mesa?
Median household income is $66,718 in Newport News and $110,073 in Costa Mesa. Median household income is $43,355/year higher in Costa Mesa.
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 Costa Mesa?
It depends on your priorities. Newport News has a cost index of 87 with median rent of $1,285/mo, while Costa Mesa has a cost index of 228 with rent of $2,395/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Newport News details → View Costa Mesa details →

More Comparisons

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