Newport News, VA vs Roanoke, VA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Roanoke is 22.6% cheaper than Newport News. With a cost index of 76 vs 93, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Roanoke to Newport News should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Newport News is $1,285/month compared to $964/month in Roanoke — a 33% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Roanoke is more affordable at $180,500 median vs $243,300.

Median household income in Newport News is $66,718 compared to $52,671 in Roanoke (+26.7%). While Newport News is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Newport News spend roughly 23.1% of their income on rent, more than the 22% in Roanoke.