Cost of Living: Norfolk, VA vs Elizabeth, NJ (2026)

Norfolk

Virginia
89
VS

Elizabeth

New Jersey
112

Norfolk is 21% cheaper than Elizabeth.

$1,246/mo ↓ 15%
Median Rent
$1,463/mo ↑ 17%
$64,017/yr ≈ Same
Median Income
$63,874/yr ≈ Same
$271,900 ↓ 31%
Home Value
$393,500 ↑ 45%
$1,366/mo ↓ 11%
Owner Costs
$1,543/mo ↑ 13%
235,037
Population
135,887

Tax Comparison

5.75%
Income Tax
10.75%
5.3%
State Sales Tax
6.625%
0.8%
Property Tax
2.23%

Affordability

23.4%
rent-to-income
Affordability
27.5%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Norfolk, VA and Elizabeth, NJ, the overall cost of living indices are 89 and 112 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $217/month cheaper in Norfolk, saving renters about $2,604/year.

Median household income is $143/year higher in Norfolk. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Norfolk is $271,900 compared to $393,500 in Elizabeth.

Virginia has a lower income tax rate, making Norfolk slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Norfolk vs Elizabeth — common questions

Is Norfolk or Elizabeth cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Norfolk is cheaper to live in with an index of 89 compared to 112 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Norfolk and Elizabeth?
Median rent in Norfolk is $1,246/month and in Elizabeth it's $1,463/month — a difference of $217/month.
Which city has higher income, Norfolk or Elizabeth?
Median household income is $64,017 in Norfolk and $63,874 in Elizabeth. Median household income is $143/year higher in Norfolk.
How do taxes compare between Virginia and New Jersey?
Virginia has 5.75% income tax, 5.3% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. New Jersey has 10.75% income tax, 6.625% sales tax, and 2.23% property tax.
Should I move to Norfolk or Elizabeth?
It depends on your priorities. Norfolk has a cost index of 89 with median rent of $1,246/mo, while Elizabeth has a cost index of 112 with rent of $1,463/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Norfolk details → View Elizabeth details →

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