Norfolk, VA vs Montgomery, AL: 89 vs 64

$1,246/mo ↑ 18%

Median Rent

$1,059/mo ↓ 15%

$64,017/yr ↑ 15%

Median Income

$55,687/yr ↓ 13%

$271,900 ↑ 83%

Home Value

$148,500 ↓ 45%

$1,366/mo ↑ 34%

Owner Costs

$1,023/mo ↓ 25%

235,037

Population

198,440

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Norfolk, VA and Montgomery, AL, the overall cost of living indices are 89 and 64 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $187/month cheaper in Montgomery, saving renters about $2,244/year.

Median household income is $8,330/year higher in Norfolk. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Norfolk is $271,900 compared to $148,500 in Montgomery.

Alabama has a lower income tax rate, making Montgomery slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Norfolk vs Montgomery — common questions

Is Norfolk or Montgomery cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Montgomery is cheaper to live in with an index of 64 compared to 89 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Norfolk and Montgomery?

Median rent in Norfolk is $1,246/month and in Montgomery it's $1,059/month — a difference of $187/month.

Which city has higher income, Norfolk or Montgomery?

Median household income is $64,017 in Norfolk and $55,687 in Montgomery. Median household income is $8,330/year higher in Norfolk.

How do taxes compare between Virginia and Alabama?

Virginia has 5.75% income tax, 5.3% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. Alabama has 5.0% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.41% property tax.

Should I move to Norfolk or Montgomery?

It depends on your priorities. Norfolk has a cost index of 89 with median rent of $1,246/mo, while Montgomery has a cost index of 64 with rent of $1,059/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Norfolk, VA vs Montgomery, AL (2026)

Norfolk

Montgomery

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons