Cost of Living: Newport News, VA vs Joliet, IL (2026)

Newport News

Virginia
87
VS

Joliet

Illinois
88

Newport News and Joliet have a similar cost of living.

$1,285/mo ↑ 4%
Median Rent
$1,237/mo ↓ 4%
$66,718/yr ↓ 24%
Median Income
$88,026/yr ↑ 32%
$243,300 ↓ 2%
Home Value
$248,600 ↑ 2%
$1,328/mo ↓ 10%
Owner Costs
$1,472/mo ↑ 11%
184,774
Population
149,785

Tax Comparison

5.75%
Income Tax
4.95%
5.3%
State Sales Tax
6.25%
0.8%
Property Tax
2.07%

Affordability

23.1%
rent-to-income
Affordability
16.9%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Newport News, VA and Joliet, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 87 and 88 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $21,308/year higher in Joliet. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Newport News is $243,300 compared to $248,600 in Joliet.

Illinois has a lower income tax rate, making Joliet slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Newport News vs Joliet — common questions

Is Newport News or Joliet cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Newport News is cheaper to live in with an index of 87 compared to 88 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Newport News and Joliet?
Median rent in Newport News is $1,285/month and in Joliet it's $1,237/month — a difference of $48/month.
Which city has higher income, Newport News or Joliet?
Median household income is $66,718 in Newport News and $88,026 in Joliet. Median household income is $21,308/year higher in Joliet.
How do taxes compare between Virginia and Illinois?
Virginia has 5.75% income tax, 5.3% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax.
Should I move to Newport News or Joliet?
It depends on your priorities. Newport News has a cost index of 87 with median rent of $1,285/mo, while Joliet has a cost index of 88 with rent of $1,237/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Newport News details → View Joliet details →

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