Cost of Living: Providence, RI vs Newport News, VA (2026)

Providence

Rhode Island
99
VS

Newport News

Virginia
87

Providence is 14% more expensive than Newport News.

$1,333/mo ↑ 4%
Median Rent
$1,285/mo ↓ 4%
$66,772/yr ≈ Same
Median Income
$66,718/yr ≈ Same
$322,800 ↑ 33%
Home Value
$243,300 ↓ 25%
$1,467/mo ↑ 10%
Owner Costs
$1,328/mo ↓ 9%
190,214
Population
184,774

Tax Comparison

5.99%
Income Tax
5.75%
7.0%
State Sales Tax
5.3%
1.53%
Property Tax
0.8%

Affordability

24.0%
rent-to-income
Affordability
23.1%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Providence, RI and Newport News, VA, the overall cost of living indices are 99 and 87 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $54/year higher in Providence. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Providence is $322,800 compared to $243,300 in Newport News.

Virginia has a lower income tax rate, making Newport News slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Providence vs Newport News — common questions

Is Providence or Newport News cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Newport News is cheaper to live in with an index of 87 compared to 99 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Providence and Newport News?
Median rent in Providence is $1,333/month and in Newport News it's $1,285/month — a difference of $48/month.
Which city has higher income, Providence or Newport News?
Median household income is $66,772 in Providence and $66,718 in Newport News. Median household income is $54/year higher in Providence.
How do taxes compare between Rhode Island and Virginia?
Rhode Island has 5.99% income tax, 7.0% sales tax, and 1.53% property tax. Virginia has 5.75% income tax, 5.3% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax.
Should I move to Providence or Newport News?
It depends on your priorities. Providence has a cost index of 99 with median rent of $1,333/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 Providence details → View Newport News details →

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