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

Newport News

Virginia
87
VS

Lakeland

Florida
82

Newport News is 6% more expensive than Lakeland.

$1,285/mo ↓ 1%
Median Rent
$1,299/mo ↑ 1%
$66,718/yr ↑ 9%
Median Income
$60,947/yr ↓ 9%
$243,300 ↑ 6%
Home Value
$229,100 ↓ 6%
$1,328/mo ↑ 16%
Owner Costs
$1,149/mo ↓ 13%
184,774
Population
117,030

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
25.6%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Newport News, VA and Lakeland, FL, the overall cost of living indices are 87 and 82 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $5,771/year higher in Newport News. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Newport News is $243,300 compared to $229,100 in Lakeland.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Newport News vs Lakeland — common questions

Is Newport News or Lakeland cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Lakeland is cheaper to live in with an index of 82 compared to 87 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Newport News and Lakeland?
Median rent in Newport News is $1,285/month and in Lakeland it's $1,299/month — a difference of $14/month.
Which city has higher income, Newport News or Lakeland?
Median household income is $66,718 in Newport News and $60,947 in Lakeland. Median household income is $5,771/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 Lakeland?
It depends on your priorities. Newport News has a cost index of 87 with median rent of $1,285/mo, while Lakeland has a cost index of 82 with rent of $1,299/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Newport News details → View Lakeland details →

More Comparisons

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