Cost of Living: Richmond, VA vs Hampton, VA (2026)

Richmond

Virginia
98
VS

Hampton

Virginia
88

Richmond is 11% more expensive than Hampton.

$1,314/mo ↓ 2%
Median Rent
$1,346/mo ↑ 2%
$62,671/yr ↓ 8%
Median Income
$67,758/yr ↑ 8%
$328,100 ↑ 40%
Home Value
$234,100 ↓ 29%
$1,374/mo ↑ 2%
Owner Costs
$1,347/mo ↓ 2%
227,595
Population
137,334

Tax Comparison

5.75%
Income Tax
5.75%
5.3%
State Sales Tax
5.3%
0.8%
Property Tax
0.8%

Affordability

25.2%
rent-to-income
Affordability
23.8%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Richmond, VA and Hampton, VA, the overall cost of living indices are 98 and 88 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $5,087/year higher in Hampton. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Richmond is $328,100 compared to $234,100 in Hampton.

Both cities share the same state tax structure since they are in Virginia.

Frequently Asked Questions

Richmond vs Hampton — common questions

Is Richmond or Hampton cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Hampton is cheaper to live in with an index of 88 compared to 98 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Richmond and Hampton?
Median rent in Richmond is $1,314/month and in Hampton it's $1,346/month — a difference of $32/month.
Which city has higher income, Richmond or Hampton?
Median household income is $62,671 in Richmond and $67,758 in Hampton. Median household income is $5,087/year higher in Hampton.
How do taxes compare between Virginia and Virginia?
Both cities are in Virginia and share the same state tax rates: 5.75% income tax, 5.3% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax.
Should I move to Richmond or Hampton?
It depends on your priorities. Richmond has a cost index of 98 with median rent of $1,314/mo, while Hampton has a cost index of 88 with rent of $1,346/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Richmond details → View Hampton details →

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