Roanoke, VA vs Suffolk, VA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Roanoke is 28.5% cheaper than Suffolk. With a cost index of 76 vs 106, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Roanoke to Suffolk should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Roanoke is $964/month compared to $1,484/month in Suffolk — a 35% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Roanoke is more affordable at $180,500 median vs $329,600.

Median household income in Roanoke is $52,671 compared to $90,089 in Suffolk (-41.5%). While Suffolk is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Roanoke spend roughly 22% of their income on rent, more than the 19.8% in Suffolk.

Climate-wise, Suffolk is notably warmer with an average of 61.4°F compared to 58.1°F in Roanoke. Suffolk receives more rainfall at 45.7" per year compared to 42.8" in Roanoke.