Cost of Living: Norfolk, VA vs Spokane, WA (2026)

Norfolk

Virginia
89
VS

Spokane

Washington
90

Norfolk and Spokane have a similar cost of living.

$1,246/mo ↑ 9%
Median Rent
$1,141/mo ↓ 8%
$64,017/yr ↓ 3%
Median Income
$65,745/yr ↑ 3%
$271,900 ↓ 17%
Home Value
$326,200 ↑ 20%
$1,366/mo ↑ 13%
Owner Costs
$1,213/mo ↓ 11%
235,037
Population
229,228

Tax Comparison

5.75%
Income Tax
0%
5.3%
Sales Tax
6.5%
0.8%
Property Tax
0.92%

Affordability

23.4%
rent-to-income
Affordability
20.8%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Norfolk, VA and Spokane, WA, the overall cost of living indices are 89 and 90 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $105/month cheaper in Spokane, saving renters about $1,260/year.

Median household income is $1,728/year higher in Spokane. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Norfolk is $271,900 compared to $326,200 in Spokane.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Norfolk vs Spokane — common questions

Is Norfolk or Spokane 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 Spokane?
Median rent in Norfolk is $1,246/month and in Spokane it's $1,141/month — a difference of $105/month.
Which city has higher income, Norfolk or Spokane?
Median household income is $64,017 in Norfolk and $65,745 in Spokane. Median household income is $1,728/year higher in Spokane.
How do taxes compare between Virginia and Washington?
Virginia has 5.75% income tax, 5.3% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax.
Should I move to Norfolk or Spokane?
It depends on your priorities. Norfolk has a cost index of 89 with median rent of $1,246/mo, while Spokane has a cost index of 90 with rent of $1,141/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Norfolk details → View Spokane details →