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

Pittsburgh

Pennsylvania
76
VS

Norfolk

Virginia
89

Pittsburgh is 15% cheaper than Norfolk.

$1,221/mo ↓ 2%
Median Rent
$1,246/mo ↑ 2%
$64,137/yr ≈ Same
Median Income
$64,017/yr ≈ Same
$193,200 ↓ 29%
Home Value
$271,900 ↑ 41%
$1,136/mo ↓ 17%
Owner Costs
$1,366/mo ↑ 20%
303,620
Population
235,037

Tax Comparison

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

Affordability

22.8%
rent-to-income
Affordability
23.4%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Pittsburgh, PA and Norfolk, VA, the overall cost of living indices are 76 and 89 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $120/year higher in Pittsburgh. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Pittsburgh is $193,200 compared to $271,900 in Norfolk.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Pittsburgh vs Norfolk — common questions

Is Pittsburgh or Norfolk cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Pittsburgh is cheaper to live in with an index of 76 compared to 89 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Pittsburgh and Norfolk?
Median rent in Pittsburgh is $1,221/month and in Norfolk it's $1,246/month — a difference of $25/month.
Which city has higher income, Pittsburgh or Norfolk?
Median household income is $64,137 in Pittsburgh and $64,017 in Norfolk. Median household income is $120/year higher in Pittsburgh.
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 Pittsburgh or Norfolk?
It depends on your priorities. Pittsburgh has a cost index of 76 with median rent of $1,221/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.
View Pittsburgh details → View Norfolk details →

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