Cost of Living: Rochester, NY vs Newport News, VA (2026)

Rochester

New York
61
VS

Newport News

Virginia
87

Rochester is 30% cheaper than Newport News.

$1,039/mo ↓ 19%
Median Rent
$1,285/mo ↑ 24%
$46,628/yr ↓ 30%
Median Income
$66,718/yr ↑ 43%
$120,600 ↓ 50%
Home Value
$243,300 ↑ 102%
$1,009/mo ↓ 24%
Owner Costs
$1,328/mo ↑ 32%
209,720
Population
184,774

Tax Comparison

10.9%
Income Tax
5.75%
4.0%
State Sales Tax
5.3%
1.62%
Property Tax
0.8%

Affordability

26.7%
rent-to-income
Affordability
23.1%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Rochester, NY and Newport News, VA, the overall cost of living indices are 61 and 87 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $246/month cheaper in Rochester, saving renters about $2,952/year.

Median household income is $20,090/year higher in Newport News. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Rochester is $120,600 compared to $243,300 in Newport News.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Rochester vs Newport News — common questions

Is Rochester or Newport News cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Rochester is cheaper to live in with an index of 61 compared to 87 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Rochester and Newport News?
Median rent in Rochester is $1,039/month and in Newport News it's $1,285/month — a difference of $246/month.
Which city has higher income, Rochester or Newport News?
Median household income is $46,628 in Rochester and $66,718 in Newport News. Median household income is $20,090/year higher in Newport News.
How do taxes compare between New York and Virginia?
New York has 10.9% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 1.62% property tax. Virginia has 5.75% income tax, 5.3% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax.
Should I move to Rochester or Newport News?
It depends on your priorities. Rochester has a cost index of 61 with median rent of $1,039/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 Rochester details → View Newport News details →

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