Cost of Living: Norfolk, VA vs Allentown, PA (2026)

Norfolk

Virginia
89
VS

Allentown

Pennsylvania
79

Norfolk is 13% more expensive than Allentown.

$1,246/mo ↓ 2%
Median Rent
$1,269/mo ↑ 2%
$64,017/yr ↑ 20%
Median Income
$53,403/yr ↓ 17%
$271,900 ↑ 44%
Home Value
$188,900 ↓ 31%
$1,366/mo ↑ 10%
Owner Costs
$1,243/mo ↓ 9%
235,037
Population
125,320

Tax Comparison

5.75%
Income Tax
3.07%
5.3%
State Sales Tax
6.0%
0.8%
Property Tax
1.49%

Affordability

23.4%
rent-to-income
Affordability
28.5%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Norfolk, VA and Allentown, PA, the overall cost of living indices are 89 and 79 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $10,614/year higher in Norfolk. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Norfolk is $271,900 compared to $188,900 in Allentown.

Pennsylvania has a lower income tax rate, making Allentown slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Norfolk vs Allentown — common questions

Is Norfolk or Allentown cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Allentown is cheaper to live in with an index of 79 compared to 89 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Norfolk and Allentown?
Median rent in Norfolk is $1,246/month and in Allentown it's $1,269/month — a difference of $23/month.
Which city has higher income, Norfolk or Allentown?
Median household income is $64,017 in Norfolk and $53,403 in Allentown. Median household income is $10,614/year higher in Norfolk.
How do taxes compare between Virginia and Pennsylvania?
Virginia has 5.75% income tax, 5.3% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. Pennsylvania has 3.07% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.49% property tax.
Should I move to Norfolk or Allentown?
It depends on your priorities. Norfolk has a cost index of 89 with median rent of $1,246/mo, while Allentown has a cost index of 79 with rent of $1,269/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Norfolk details → View Allentown details →

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