Cost of Living: Norfolk, VA vs Richardson, TX (2026)

Norfolk

Virginia
89
VS

Richardson

Texas
128

Norfolk is 30% cheaper than Richardson.

$1,246/mo ↓ 32%
Median Rent
$1,825/mo ↑ 46%
$64,017/yr ↓ 33%
Median Income
$96,257/yr ↑ 50%
$271,900 ↓ 33%
Home Value
$405,600 ↑ 49%
$1,366/mo ↓ 24%
Owner Costs
$1,796/mo ↑ 31%
235,037
Population
118,269

Tax Comparison

5.75%
Income Tax
0%
5.3%
State Sales Tax
6.25%
0.8%
Property Tax
1.6%

Affordability

23.4%
rent-to-income
Affordability
22.8%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Norfolk, VA and Richardson, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 89 and 128 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $579/month cheaper in Norfolk, saving renters about $6,948/year.

Median household income is $32,240/year higher in Richardson. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Norfolk is $271,900 compared to $405,600 in Richardson.

Texas has no state income tax, giving Richardson residents a significant tax advantage over Virginia's 5.75% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Norfolk vs Richardson — common questions

Is Norfolk or Richardson cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Norfolk is cheaper to live in with an index of 89 compared to 128 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Norfolk and Richardson?
Median rent in Norfolk is $1,246/month and in Richardson it's $1,825/month — a difference of $579/month.
Which city has higher income, Norfolk or Richardson?
Median household income is $64,017 in Norfolk and $96,257 in Richardson. Median household income is $32,240/year higher in Richardson.
How do taxes compare between Virginia and Texas?
Virginia has 5.75% income tax, 5.3% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax.
Should I move to Norfolk or Richardson?
It depends on your priorities. Norfolk has a cost index of 89 with median rent of $1,246/mo, while Richardson has a cost index of 128 with rent of $1,825/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Norfolk details → View Richardson details →

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