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

Virginia Beach

Virginia
117
VS

Brandon

Florida
108

Virginia Beach is 8% more expensive than Brandon.

$1,649/mo ↓ 2%
Median Rent
$1,691/mo ↑ 3%
$90,685/yr ↑ 18%
Median Income
$77,068/yr ↓ 15%
$366,300 ↑ 25%
Home Value
$293,800 ↓ 20%
$1,704/mo ↑ 10%
Owner Costs
$1,546/mo ↓ 9%
457,066
Population
116,365

Tax Comparison

5.75%
Income Tax
0%
5.3%
State Sales Tax
6.0%
0.8%
Property Tax
0.86%

Affordability

21.8%
rent-to-income
Affordability
26.3%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Virginia Beach, VA and Brandon, FL, the overall cost of living indices are 117 and 108 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $13,617/year higher in Virginia Beach. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Virginia Beach is $366,300 compared to $293,800 in Brandon.

Florida has no state income tax, giving Brandon residents a significant tax advantage over Virginia's 5.75% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Virginia Beach vs Brandon — common questions

Is Virginia Beach or Brandon cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Brandon is cheaper to live in with an index of 108 compared to 117 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Virginia Beach and Brandon?
Median rent in Virginia Beach is $1,649/month and in Brandon it's $1,691/month — a difference of $42/month.
Which city has higher income, Virginia Beach or Brandon?
Median household income is $90,685 in Virginia Beach and $77,068 in Brandon. Median household income is $13,617/year higher in Virginia Beach.
How do taxes compare between Virginia and Florida?
Virginia has 5.75% income tax, 5.3% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. Florida has 0% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.86% property tax.
Should I move to Virginia Beach or Brandon?
It depends on your priorities. Virginia Beach has a cost index of 117 with median rent of $1,649/mo, while Brandon has a cost index of 108 with rent of $1,691/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
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