Philadelphia, PA vs Norfolk, VA: 85 vs 89

$1,323/mo ↑ 6%

Median Rent

$1,246/mo ↓ 6%

$60,698/yr ↓ 5%

Median Income

$64,017/yr ↑ 5%

$232,400 ↓ 15%

Home Value

$271,900 ↑ 17%

$1,233/mo ↓ 10%

Owner Costs

$1,366/mo ↑ 11%

1,582,432

Population

235,037

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Philadelphia, PA and Norfolk, VA, the overall cost of living indices are 85 and 89 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $77/month cheaper in Norfolk, saving renters about $924/year.

Median household income is $3,319/year higher in Norfolk. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Philadelphia is $232,400 compared to $271,900 in Norfolk.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Philadelphia vs Norfolk — common questions

Is Philadelphia or Norfolk cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Philadelphia is cheaper to live in with an index of 85 compared to 89 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Philadelphia and Norfolk?

Median rent in Philadelphia is $1,323/month and in Norfolk it's $1,246/month — a difference of $77/month.

Which city has higher income, Philadelphia or Norfolk?

Median household income is $60,698 in Philadelphia and $64,017 in Norfolk. Median household income is $3,319/year higher in Norfolk.

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 Norfolk?

It depends on your priorities. Philadelphia has a cost index of 85 with median rent of $1,323/mo, while Norfolk has a cost index of 89 with rent of $1,246/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

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

Philadelphia

Norfolk

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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