Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
16% cheaper
Norfolk is 16% more affordable than Burlington. A $75,000 salary in Burlington is equivalent to $62,924 in Norfolk.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Vermont salaries · Virginia salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Burlington has a housing index of 139 while Norfolk sits at 95 (national average = 100). The median home in Burlington costs $380,000 compared to $250,000 in Norfolk, a difference of $130,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,800 in Burlington versus $1,300 in Norfolk.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Burlington scores 108 while Norfolk scores 99.
Healthcare costs in Burlington (116) are higher than Norfolk (99).
Median household income in Burlington is $51,098 compared to $51,938 in Norfolk. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Norfolk.
Amazon affiliate links