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

Newport News

Virginia
87
VS

Richmond

California
161

Newport News is 46% cheaper than Richmond.

$1,285/mo ↓ 32%
Median Rent
$1,895/mo ↑ 47%
$66,718/yr ↓ 26%
Median Income
$90,038/yr ↑ 35%
$243,300 ↓ 63%
Home Value
$650,100 ↑ 167%
$1,328/mo ↓ 34%
Owner Costs
$2,015/mo ↑ 52%
184,774
Population
115,396

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
25.3%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Newport News, VA and Richmond, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 87 and 161 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $610/month cheaper in Newport News, saving renters about $7,320/year.

Median household income is $23,320/year higher in Richmond. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Newport News is $243,300 compared to $650,100 in Richmond.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Newport News vs Richmond — common questions

Is Newport News or Richmond cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Newport News is cheaper to live in with an index of 87 compared to 161 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Newport News and Richmond?
Median rent in Newport News is $1,285/month and in Richmond it's $1,895/month — a difference of $610/month.
Which city has higher income, Newport News or Richmond?
Median household income is $66,718 in Newport News and $90,038 in Richmond. Median household income is $23,320/year higher in Richmond.
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 Richmond?
It depends on your priorities. Newport News has a cost index of 87 with median rent of $1,285/mo, while Richmond has a cost index of 161 with rent of $1,895/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Newport News details → View Richmond details →

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