Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
39% cheaper
Norfolk is 39% more affordable than Jersey City. A $75,000 salary in Jersey City is equivalent to $45,833 in Norfolk.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: New Jersey salaries · Virginia salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Jersey City has a housing index of 249 while Norfolk sits at 95 (national average = 100). The median home in Jersey City costs $540,000 compared to $250,000 in Norfolk, a difference of $290,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $2,600 in Jersey City versus $1,300 in Norfolk.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Jersey City scores 105 while Norfolk scores 99. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Jersey City (106) are higher than Norfolk (99). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Jersey City is $80,820 compared to $51,938 in Norfolk. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Norfolk.
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