Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
7% cheaper
Norfolk is 7% more affordable than Madison. A $75,000 salary in Madison is equivalent to $70,047 in Norfolk.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Wisconsin salaries · Virginia salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Madison has a housing index of 115 while Norfolk sits at 95 (national average = 100). The median home in Madison costs $340,000 compared to $250,000 in Norfolk, a difference of $90,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,400 in Madison versus $1,300 in Norfolk.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Madison scores 101 while Norfolk scores 99. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Madison (105) are higher than Norfolk (99). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Madison is $67,565 compared to $51,938 in Norfolk. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Norfolk.
Amazon affiliate links