Cost of Living: Newport News, VA vs Rochester, MN (2026)

Newport News

Virginia
87
VS

Rochester

Minnesota
93

Newport News is 6% cheaper than Rochester.

$1,285/mo ↓ 2%
Median Rent
$1,316/mo ↑ 2%
$66,718/yr ↓ 24%
Median Income
$87,767/yr ↑ 32%
$243,300 ↓ 15%
Home Value
$287,500 ↑ 18%
$1,328/mo ≈ Same
Owner Costs
$1,332/mo ≈ Same
184,774
Population
121,638

Tax Comparison

5.75%
Income Tax
9.85%
5.3%
State Sales Tax
6.875%
0.8%
Property Tax
1.11%

Affordability

23.1%
rent-to-income
Affordability
18.0%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Newport News, VA and Rochester, MN, the overall cost of living indices are 87 and 93 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $21,049/year higher in Rochester. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Newport News is $243,300 compared to $287,500 in Rochester.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Newport News vs Rochester — common questions

Is Newport News or Rochester cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Newport News is cheaper to live in with an index of 87 compared to 93 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Newport News and Rochester?
Median rent in Newport News is $1,285/month and in Rochester it's $1,316/month — a difference of $31/month.
Which city has higher income, Newport News or Rochester?
Median household income is $66,718 in Newport News and $87,767 in Rochester. Median household income is $21,049/year higher in Rochester.
How do taxes compare between Virginia and Minnesota?
Virginia has 5.75% income tax, 5.3% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. Minnesota has 9.85% income tax, 6.875% sales tax, and 1.11% property tax.
Should I move to Newport News or Rochester?
It depends on your priorities. Newport News has a cost index of 87 with median rent of $1,285/mo, while Rochester has a cost index of 93 with rent of $1,316/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Newport News details → View Rochester details →

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