Cost of Living: Newport News, VA vs Wilmington, NC (2026)

Newport News

Virginia
87
VS

Wilmington

North Carolina
100

Newport News is 13% cheaper than Wilmington.

$1,285/mo ↓ 2%
Median Rent
$1,311/mo ↑ 2%
$66,718/yr ↑ 4%
Median Income
$63,900/yr ↓ 4%
$243,300 ↓ 31%
Home Value
$350,300 ↑ 44%
$1,328/mo ↓ 3%
Owner Costs
$1,371/mo ↑ 3%
184,774
Population
118,578

Tax Comparison

5.75%
Income Tax
4.5%
5.3%
State Sales Tax
4.75%
0.8%
Property Tax
0.8%

Affordability

23.1%
rent-to-income
Affordability
24.6%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

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

Median household income is $2,818/year higher in Newport News. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Newport News is $243,300 compared to $350,300 in Wilmington.

North Carolina has a lower income tax rate, making Wilmington slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Newport News vs Wilmington — common questions

Is Newport News or Wilmington cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Newport News is cheaper to live in with an index of 87 compared to 100 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Newport News and Wilmington?
Median rent in Newport News is $1,285/month and in Wilmington it's $1,311/month — a difference of $26/month.
Which city has higher income, Newport News or Wilmington?
Median household income is $66,718 in Newport News and $63,900 in Wilmington. Median household income is $2,818/year higher in Newport News.
How do taxes compare between Virginia and North Carolina?
Virginia has 5.75% income tax, 5.3% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax.
Should I move to Newport News or Wilmington?
It depends on your priorities. Newport News has a cost index of 87 with median rent of $1,285/mo, while Wilmington has a cost index of 100 with rent of $1,311/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Newport News details → View Wilmington details →

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