Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
17% cheaper
Jackson is 17% more affordable than Norfolk. A $75,000 salary in Norfolk is equivalent to $62,121 in Jackson.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Mississippi salaries · Virginia salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Jackson has a housing index of 56 while Norfolk sits at 95 (national average = 100). The median home in Jackson costs $125,000 compared to $250,000 in Norfolk, a difference of $125,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $900 in Jackson versus $1,300 in Norfolk.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Jackson scores 95 while Norfolk scores 99. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Jackson (88) are lower than Norfolk (99).
Median household income in Jackson is $36,528 compared to $51,938 in Norfolk. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Jackson.
Amazon affiliate links