Cost of Living: Newport News, VA vs Paterson, NJ (2026)

Newport News

Virginia
87
VS

Paterson

New Jersey
106

Newport News is 18% cheaper than Paterson.

$1,285/mo ↓ 12%
Median Rent
$1,457/mo ↑ 13%
$66,718/yr ↑ 24%
Median Income
$53,766/yr ↓ 19%
$243,300 ↓ 27%
Home Value
$335,400 ↑ 38%
$1,328/mo ↓ 14%
Owner Costs
$1,553/mo ↑ 17%
184,774
Population
157,660

Tax Comparison

5.75%
Income Tax
10.75%
5.3%
State Sales Tax
6.625%
0.8%
Property Tax
2.23%

Affordability

23.1%
rent-to-income
Affordability
32.5%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Newport News, VA and Paterson, NJ, the overall cost of living indices are 87 and 106 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $172/month cheaper in Newport News, saving renters about $2,064/year.

Median household income is $12,952/year higher in Newport News. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Newport News is $243,300 compared to $335,400 in Paterson.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Newport News vs Paterson — common questions

Is Newport News or Paterson cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Newport News is cheaper to live in with an index of 87 compared to 106 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Newport News and Paterson?
Median rent in Newport News is $1,285/month and in Paterson it's $1,457/month — a difference of $172/month.
Which city has higher income, Newport News or Paterson?
Median household income is $66,718 in Newport News and $53,766 in Paterson. Median household income is $12,952/year higher in Newport News.
How do taxes compare between Virginia and New Jersey?
Virginia has 5.75% income tax, 5.3% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. New Jersey has 10.75% income tax, 6.625% sales tax, and 2.23% property tax.
Should I move to Newport News or Paterson?
It depends on your priorities. Newport News has a cost index of 87 with median rent of $1,285/mo, while Paterson has a cost index of 106 with rent of $1,457/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Newport News details → View Paterson details →

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