Cost of Living: Philadelphia, PA vs Newport News, VA (2026)

Philadelphia

Pennsylvania
85
VS

Newport News

Virginia
87

Philadelphia and Newport News have a similar cost of living.

$1,323/mo ↑ 3%
Median Rent
$1,285/mo ↓ 3%
$60,698/yr ↓ 9%
Median Income
$66,718/yr ↑ 10%
$232,400 ↓ 4%
Home Value
$243,300 ↑ 5%
$1,233/mo ↓ 7%
Owner Costs
$1,328/mo ↑ 8%
1,582,432
Population
184,774

Tax Comparison

3.07%
Income Tax
5.75%
6.0%
State Sales Tax
5.3%
1.49%
Property Tax
0.8%

Affordability

26.2%
rent-to-income
Affordability
23.1%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Philadelphia, PA and Newport News, VA, the overall cost of living indices are 85 and 87 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $6,020/year higher in Newport News. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Philadelphia is $232,400 compared to $243,300 in Newport News.

Pennsylvania has a lower income tax rate, making Philadelphia slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Philadelphia vs Newport News — common questions

Is Philadelphia or Newport News cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Philadelphia is cheaper to live in with an index of 85 compared to 87 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Philadelphia and Newport News?
Median rent in Philadelphia is $1,323/month and in Newport News it's $1,285/month — a difference of $38/month.
Which city has higher income, Philadelphia or Newport News?
Median household income is $60,698 in Philadelphia and $66,718 in Newport News. Median household income is $6,020/year higher in Newport News.
How do taxes compare between Pennsylvania and Virginia?
Pennsylvania has 3.07% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.49% property tax. Virginia has 5.75% income tax, 5.3% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax.
Should I move to Philadelphia or Newport News?
It depends on your priorities. Philadelphia has a cost index of 85 with median rent of $1,323/mo, while Newport News has a cost index of 87 with rent of $1,285/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Philadelphia details → View Newport News details →

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