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

Virginia Beach

Virginia
117
VS

Arlington

Virginia
203

Virginia Beach is 42% cheaper than Arlington.

$1,649/mo ↓ 28%
Median Rent
$2,275/mo ↑ 38%
$90,685/yr ↓ 35%
Median Income
$140,160/yr ↑ 55%
$366,300 ↓ 58%
Home Value
$864,800 ↑ 136%
$1,704/mo ↓ 29%
Owner Costs
$2,414/mo ↑ 42%
457,066
Population
235,463

Tax Comparison

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

Affordability

21.8%
rent-to-income
Affordability
19.5%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Virginia Beach, VA and Arlington, VA, the overall cost of living indices are 117 and 203 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $626/month cheaper in Virginia Beach, saving renters about $7,512/year.

Median household income is $49,475/year higher in Arlington. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Virginia Beach is $366,300 compared to $864,800 in Arlington.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Virginia Beach vs Arlington — common questions

Is Virginia Beach or Arlington cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Virginia Beach is cheaper to live in with an index of 117 compared to 203 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Virginia Beach and Arlington?
Median rent in Virginia Beach is $1,649/month and in Arlington it's $2,275/month — a difference of $626/month.
Which city has higher income, Virginia Beach or Arlington?
Median household income is $90,685 in Virginia Beach and $140,160 in Arlington. Median household income is $49,475/year higher in Arlington.
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 Virginia Beach or Arlington?
It depends on your priorities. Virginia Beach has a cost index of 117 with median rent of $1,649/mo, while Arlington has a cost index of 203 with rent of $2,275/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Virginia Beach details → View Arlington details →

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