Cost of Living: Norfolk, VA vs Elgin, IL (2026)

Norfolk

Virginia
89
VS

Elgin

Illinois
90

Norfolk and Elgin have a similar cost of living.

$1,246/mo ↓ 1%
Median Rent
$1,260/mo ↑ 1%
$64,017/yr ↓ 28%
Median Income
$88,316/yr ↑ 38%
$271,900 ↑ 8%
Home Value
$252,400 ↓ 7%
$1,366/mo ↓ 9%
Owner Costs
$1,502/mo ↑ 10%
235,037
Population
114,106

Tax Comparison

5.75%
Income Tax
4.95%
5.3%
State Sales Tax
6.25%
0.8%
Property Tax
2.07%

Affordability

23.4%
rent-to-income
Affordability
17.1%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Norfolk, VA and Elgin, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 89 and 90 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $24,299/year higher in Elgin. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Norfolk is $271,900 compared to $252,400 in Elgin.

Illinois has a lower income tax rate, making Elgin slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Norfolk vs Elgin — common questions

Is Norfolk or Elgin cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Norfolk is cheaper to live in with an index of 89 compared to 90 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Norfolk and Elgin?
Median rent in Norfolk is $1,246/month and in Elgin it's $1,260/month — a difference of $14/month.
Which city has higher income, Norfolk or Elgin?
Median household income is $64,017 in Norfolk and $88,316 in Elgin. Median household income is $24,299/year higher in Elgin.
How do taxes compare between Virginia and Illinois?
Virginia has 5.75% income tax, 5.3% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax.
Should I move to Norfolk or Elgin?
It depends on your priorities. Norfolk has a cost index of 89 with median rent of $1,246/mo, while Elgin has a cost index of 90 with rent of $1,260/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Norfolk details → View Elgin details →

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