Norfolk, VA vs Santa Rosa, CA: 89 vs 172

$1,246/mo ↓ 40%

Median Rent

$2,084/mo ↑ 67%

$64,017/yr ↓ 34%

Median Income

$97,410/yr ↑ 52%

$271,900 ↓ 60%

Home Value

$685,000 ↑ 152%

$1,366/mo ↓ 36%

Owner Costs

$2,130/mo ↑ 56%

235,037

Population

177,216

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Norfolk, VA and Santa Rosa, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 89 and 172 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $838/month cheaper in Norfolk, saving renters about $10,056/year.

Median household income is $33,393/year higher in Santa Rosa. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Norfolk is $271,900 compared to $685,000 in Santa Rosa.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Norfolk vs Santa Rosa — common questions

Is Norfolk or Santa Rosa cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Norfolk is cheaper to live in with an index of 89 compared to 172 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Norfolk and Santa Rosa?

Median rent in Norfolk is $1,246/month and in Santa Rosa it's $2,084/month — a difference of $838/month.

Which city has higher income, Norfolk or Santa Rosa?

Median household income is $64,017 in Norfolk and $97,410 in Santa Rosa. Median household income is $33,393/year higher in Santa Rosa.

How do taxes compare between Virginia and California?

Virginia has 5.75% income tax, 5.3% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Norfolk or Santa Rosa?

It depends on your priorities. Norfolk has a cost index of 89 with median rent of $1,246/mo, while Santa Rosa has a cost index of 172 with rent of $2,084/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Norfolk, VA vs Santa Rosa, CA (2026)

Norfolk

Santa Rosa

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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