Cost of Living: Norfolk, VA vs Akron, OH (2026)

Norfolk

Virginia
89
VS

Akron

Ohio
55

Norfolk is 62% more expensive than Akron.

$1,246/mo ↑ 34%
Median Rent
$930/mo ↓ 25%
$64,017/yr ↑ 32%
Median Income
$48,544/yr ↓ 24%
$271,900 ↑ 145%
Home Value
$111,200 ↓ 59%
$1,366/mo ↑ 51%
Owner Costs
$904/mo ↓ 34%
235,037
Population
189,526

Tax Comparison

5.75%
Income Tax
3.5%
5.3%
State Sales Tax
5.75%
0.8%
Property Tax
1.53%

Affordability

23.4%
rent-to-income
Affordability
23.0%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Norfolk, VA and Akron, OH, the overall cost of living indices are 89 and 55 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $316/month cheaper in Akron, saving renters about $3,792/year.

Median household income is $15,473/year higher in Norfolk. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Norfolk is $271,900 compared to $111,200 in Akron.

Ohio has a lower income tax rate, making Akron slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Norfolk vs Akron — common questions

Is Norfolk or Akron cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Akron is cheaper to live in with an index of 55 compared to 89 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Norfolk and Akron?
Median rent in Norfolk is $1,246/month and in Akron it's $930/month — a difference of $316/month.
Which city has higher income, Norfolk or Akron?
Median household income is $64,017 in Norfolk and $48,544 in Akron. Median household income is $15,473/year higher in Norfolk.
How do taxes compare between Virginia and Ohio?
Virginia has 5.75% income tax, 5.3% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. Ohio has 3.5% income tax, 5.75% sales tax, and 1.53% property tax.
Should I move to Norfolk or Akron?
It depends on your priorities. Norfolk has a cost index of 89 with median rent of $1,246/mo, while Akron has a cost index of 55 with rent of $930/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Norfolk details → View Akron details →

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