Assembling your view…
Crunching costs, sorting signals, rendering insights.
Crunching costs, sorting signals, rendering insights.
| # | City | Cost Index | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Richmond | 92 | View → |
| 2 | Newport News | 93 | View → |
| 3 | Hampton | 93 | View → |
| 4 | Norfolk | 99 | View → |
| 5 | Virginia Beach | 114 | View → |
| 6 | Chesapeake | 117 | View → |
| 7 | Alexandria | 130 | View → |
Richmond is the most affordable city in Virginia with a cost of living index of 92 and median rent of $1,574/month. This is 8 points below the national average of 100.
Across the 7 cities tracked in Virginia, the average cost of living index is 105 (national average: 111). Average monthly rent is $1,804, compared to the national average of $1,895.
Virginia's average cost index of 105 is 6 points below the national average of 111. The most affordable city, Richmond, has an index of 92, while the most expensive, Alexandria, is at 130.
In Richmond (cheapest city), a salary of $50,000–$60,000 typically allows comfortable living with rent under 30% of net income. In more expensive cities like Alexandria, you may need $80,000–$100,000 to maintain the same standard. Use our salary checker to see exact calculations.
Virginia is more affordable than the national average, making it a solid choice for cost-conscious movers.