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

Norfolk

Virginia
89
VS

Tuscaloosa

Alabama
73

Norfolk is 22% more expensive than Tuscaloosa.

$1,246/mo ↑ 24%
Median Rent
$1,005/mo ↓ 19%
$64,017/yr ↑ 32%
Median Income
$48,536/yr ↓ 24%
$271,900 ↑ 15%
Home Value
$236,600 ↓ 13%
$1,366/mo ↑ 32%
Owner Costs
$1,038/mo ↓ 24%
235,037
Population
107,699

Tax Comparison

5.75%
Income Tax
5.0%
5.3%
State Sales Tax
4.0%
0.8%
Property Tax
0.41%

Affordability

23.4%
rent-to-income
Affordability
24.8%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Norfolk, VA and Tuscaloosa, AL, the overall cost of living indices are 89 and 73 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $241/month cheaper in Tuscaloosa, saving renters about $2,892/year.

Median household income is $15,481/year higher in Norfolk. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Norfolk is $271,900 compared to $236,600 in Tuscaloosa.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Norfolk vs Tuscaloosa — common questions

Is Norfolk or Tuscaloosa cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Tuscaloosa is cheaper to live in with an index of 73 compared to 89 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Norfolk and Tuscaloosa?
Median rent in Norfolk is $1,246/month and in Tuscaloosa it's $1,005/month — a difference of $241/month.
Which city has higher income, Norfolk or Tuscaloosa?
Median household income is $64,017 in Norfolk and $48,536 in Tuscaloosa. Median household income is $15,481/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 Tuscaloosa?
It depends on your priorities. Norfolk has a cost index of 89 with median rent of $1,246/mo, while Tuscaloosa has a cost index of 73 with rent of $1,005/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Norfolk details → View Tuscaloosa details →

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