Raleigh, NC vs Virginia Beach, VA: Cost of Living Comparison
Both cities have a very similar overall cost of living. (100 = US national average)
Category-by-Category Comparison
| Category | Raleigh | Virginia Beach | Cheaper |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall cost of living | 107 | 107 | Tie |
| Housing | 109 ($1,028) | 105 ($1,154) | Virginia Beach |
| Transportation | 102 ($3.50) | 101 ($3.50) | Virginia Beach |
| Food & groceries | 110 ($451) | 121 ($496) | Raleigh |
| Utilities | 105 ($196) | 103 ($189) | Virginia Beach |
| Healthcare | 105 ($142) | 103 ($137) | Virginia Beach |
| Median annual wage | 99 ($47,970) | 115 ($55,690) | Raleigh |
Index 100 = US national average. Lower = cheaper. For wage, higher = better.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Raleigh, NC or Virginia Beach, VA cheaper to live in?
Raleigh, NC and Virginia Beach, VA have essentially the same overall cost of living index (~107).
What salary do I need in Raleigh, NC vs Virginia Beach, VA?
A single adult needs roughly $37,450/year in Raleigh, NC and $37,450/year in Virginia Beach, VA to cover basic living costs.