Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
7% cheaper
Norfolk is 7% more affordable than Atlanta. A $75,000 salary in Atlanta is equivalent to $69,393 in Norfolk.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Georgia salaries · Virginia salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Atlanta has a housing index of 113 while Norfolk sits at 95 (national average = 100). The median home in Atlanta costs $350,000 compared to $250,000 in Norfolk, a difference of $100,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,700 in Atlanta versus $1,300 in Norfolk.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Atlanta scores 104 while Norfolk scores 99. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Atlanta (101) are higher than Norfolk (99). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Atlanta is $59,948 compared to $51,938 in Norfolk. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Norfolk.
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