Cost of Living: Newport News, VA vs Tuscaloosa, AL (2026)

Newport News

Virginia
87
VS

Tuscaloosa

Alabama
73

Newport News is 19% more expensive than Tuscaloosa.

$1,285/mo ↑ 28%
Median Rent
$1,005/mo ↓ 22%
$66,718/yr ↑ 37%
Median Income
$48,536/yr ↓ 27%
$243,300 ↑ 3%
Home Value
$236,600 ↓ 3%
$1,328/mo ↑ 28%
Owner Costs
$1,038/mo ↓ 22%
184,774
Population
107,699

Tax Comparison

5.75%
Income Tax
5.0%
5.3%
State Sales Tax
4.0%
0.8%
Property Tax
0.41%

Affordability

23.1%
rent-to-income
Affordability
24.8%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Newport News, VA and Tuscaloosa, AL, the overall cost of living indices are 87 and 73 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $280/month cheaper in Tuscaloosa, saving renters about $3,360/year.

Median household income is $18,182/year higher in Newport News. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Newport News is $243,300 compared to $236,600 in Tuscaloosa.

Alabama has a lower income tax rate, making Tuscaloosa slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Newport News vs Tuscaloosa — common questions

Is Newport News or Tuscaloosa cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Tuscaloosa is cheaper to live in with an index of 73 compared to 87 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Newport News and Tuscaloosa?
Median rent in Newport News is $1,285/month and in Tuscaloosa it's $1,005/month — a difference of $280/month.
Which city has higher income, Newport News or Tuscaloosa?
Median household income is $66,718 in Newport News and $48,536 in Tuscaloosa. Median household income is $18,182/year higher in Newport News.
How do taxes compare between Virginia and Alabama?
Virginia has 5.75% income tax, 5.3% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax.
Should I move to Newport News or Tuscaloosa?
It depends on your priorities. Newport News has a cost index of 87 with median rent of $1,285/mo, while Tuscaloosa has a cost index of 73 with rent of $1,005/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Newport News details → View Tuscaloosa details →

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