Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
44% cheaper
Virginia Beach is 44% more affordable than New York City. A $75,000 salary in New York City is equivalent to $42,112 in Virginia Beach.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: New York salaries · Virginia salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. New York City has a housing index of 302 while Virginia Beach sits at 112 (national average = 100). The median home in New York City costs $680,000 compared to $310,000 in Virginia Beach, a difference of $370,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $3,200 in New York City versus $1,500 in Virginia Beach.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: New York City scores 109 while Virginia Beach scores 100.
Healthcare costs in New York City (108) are higher than Virginia Beach (99).
Median household income in New York City is $67,046 compared to $73,418 in Virginia Beach. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Virginia Beach.
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