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

Philadelphia

Pennsylvania
85
VS

Virginia Beach

Virginia
117

Philadelphia is 27% cheaper than Virginia Beach.

$1,323/mo ↓ 20%
Median Rent
$1,649/mo ↑ 25%
$60,698/yr ↓ 33%
Median Income
$90,685/yr ↑ 49%
$232,400 ↓ 37%
Home Value
$366,300 ↑ 58%
$1,233/mo ↓ 28%
Owner Costs
$1,704/mo ↑ 38%
1,582,432
Population
457,066

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
21.8%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Philadelphia, PA and Virginia Beach, VA, the overall cost of living indices are 85 and 117 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $326/month cheaper in Philadelphia, saving renters about $3,912/year.

Median household income is $29,987/year higher in Virginia Beach. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Philadelphia is $232,400 compared to $366,300 in Virginia Beach.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Philadelphia vs Virginia Beach — common questions

Is Philadelphia or Virginia Beach cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Philadelphia is cheaper to live in with an index of 85 compared to 117 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Philadelphia and Virginia Beach?
Median rent in Philadelphia is $1,323/month and in Virginia Beach it's $1,649/month — a difference of $326/month.
Which city has higher income, Philadelphia or Virginia Beach?
Median household income is $60,698 in Philadelphia and $90,685 in Virginia Beach. Median household income is $29,987/year higher in Virginia Beach.
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 Virginia Beach?
It depends on your priorities. Philadelphia has a cost index of 85 with median rent of $1,323/mo, while Virginia Beach has a cost index of 117 with rent of $1,649/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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