Cost of Living: Norfolk, VA vs Alexandria, VA (2026)

Norfolk

Virginia
89
VS

Alexandria

Virginia
173

Norfolk is 49% cheaper than Alexandria.

$1,246/mo ↓ 39%
Median Rent
$2,031/mo ↑ 63%
$64,017/yr ↓ 44%
Median Income
$113,638/yr ↑ 78%
$271,900 ↓ 61%
Home Value
$696,800 ↑ 156%
$1,366/mo ↓ 37%
Owner Costs
$2,173/mo ↑ 59%
235,037
Population
156,788

Tax Comparison

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

Affordability

23.4%
rent-to-income
Affordability
21.4%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Norfolk, VA and Alexandria, VA, the overall cost of living indices are 89 and 173 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $785/month cheaper in Norfolk, saving renters about $9,420/year.

Median household income is $49,621/year higher in Alexandria. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Norfolk is $271,900 compared to $696,800 in Alexandria.

Both cities share the same state tax structure since they are in Virginia.

Frequently Asked Questions

Norfolk vs Alexandria — common questions

Is Norfolk or Alexandria cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Norfolk is cheaper to live in with an index of 89 compared to 173 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Norfolk and Alexandria?
Median rent in Norfolk is $1,246/month and in Alexandria it's $2,031/month — a difference of $785/month.
Which city has higher income, Norfolk or Alexandria?
Median household income is $64,017 in Norfolk and $113,638 in Alexandria. Median household income is $49,621/year higher in Alexandria.
How do taxes compare between Virginia and Virginia?
Both cities are in Virginia and share the same state tax rates: 5.75% income tax, 5.3% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax.
Should I move to Norfolk or Alexandria?
It depends on your priorities. Norfolk has a cost index of 89 with median rent of $1,246/mo, while Alexandria has a cost index of 173 with rent of $2,031/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Norfolk details → View Alexandria details →

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