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

Newport News

Virginia
87
VS

Fairfield

California
167

Newport News is 48% cheaper than Fairfield.

$1,285/mo ↓ 41%
Median Rent
$2,191/mo ↑ 71%
$66,718/yr ↓ 35%
Median Income
$102,321/yr ↑ 53%
$243,300 ↓ 59%
Home Value
$592,500 ↑ 144%
$1,328/mo ↓ 40%
Owner Costs
$2,226/mo ↑ 68%
184,774
Population
119,985

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
25.7%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Newport News, VA and Fairfield, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 87 and 167 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $906/month cheaper in Newport News, saving renters about $10,872/year.

Median household income is $35,603/year higher in Fairfield. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Newport News is $243,300 compared to $592,500 in Fairfield.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Newport News vs Fairfield — common questions

Is Newport News or Fairfield cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Newport News is cheaper to live in with an index of 87 compared to 167 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Newport News and Fairfield?
Median rent in Newport News is $1,285/month and in Fairfield it's $2,191/month — a difference of $906/month.
Which city has higher income, Newport News or Fairfield?
Median household income is $66,718 in Newport News and $102,321 in Fairfield. Median household income is $35,603/year higher in Fairfield.
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 Fairfield?
It depends on your priorities. Newport News has a cost index of 87 with median rent of $1,285/mo, while Fairfield has a cost index of 167 with rent of $2,191/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Newport News details → View Fairfield details →

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