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

Virginia Beach

Virginia
117
VS

Norfolk

Virginia
89

Virginia Beach is 31% more expensive than Norfolk.

$1,649/mo ↑ 32%
Median Rent
$1,246/mo ↓ 24%
$90,685/yr ↑ 42%
Median Income
$64,017/yr ↓ 29%
$366,300 ↑ 35%
Home Value
$271,900 ↓ 26%
$1,704/mo ↑ 25%
Owner Costs
$1,366/mo ↓ 20%
457,066
Population
235,037

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
23.4%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Virginia Beach, VA and Norfolk, VA, the overall cost of living indices are 117 and 89 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $403/month cheaper in Norfolk, saving renters about $4,836/year.

Median household income is $26,668/year higher in Virginia Beach. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Virginia Beach is $366,300 compared to $271,900 in Norfolk.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Virginia Beach vs Norfolk — common questions

Is Virginia Beach or Norfolk cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Norfolk is cheaper to live in with an index of 89 compared to 117 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Virginia Beach and Norfolk?
Median rent in Virginia Beach is $1,649/month and in Norfolk it's $1,246/month — a difference of $403/month.
Which city has higher income, Virginia Beach or Norfolk?
Median household income is $90,685 in Virginia Beach and $64,017 in Norfolk. Median household income is $26,668/year higher in Virginia Beach.
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 Norfolk?
It depends on your priorities. Virginia Beach has a cost index of 117 with median rent of $1,649/mo, while Norfolk has a cost index of 89 with rent of $1,246/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Virginia Beach details → View Norfolk details →

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