Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
11% cheaper
Virginia Beach is 11% more affordable than Burlington. A $75,000 salary in Burlington is equivalent to $66,737 in Virginia Beach.
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 Virginia Beach sits at 112 (national average = 100). The median home in Burlington costs $380,000 compared to $310,000 in Virginia Beach, a difference of $70,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,800 in Burlington versus $1,500 in Virginia Beach.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Burlington scores 108 while Virginia Beach scores 100.
Healthcare costs in Burlington (116) are higher than Virginia Beach (99).
Median household income in Burlington is $51,098 compared to $73,418 in Virginia Beach. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Virginia Beach.
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