Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
12% cheaper
Norfolk is 12% more affordable than Naperville. A $75,000 salary in Naperville is equivalent to $66,295 in Norfolk.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Illinois salaries · Virginia salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Naperville has a housing index of 130 while Norfolk sits at 95 (national average = 100). The median home in Naperville costs $430,000 compared to $250,000 in Norfolk, a difference of $180,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,800 in Naperville versus $1,300 in Norfolk.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Naperville scores 104 while Norfolk scores 99. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Naperville (101) are higher than Norfolk (99). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Naperville is $118,254 compared to $51,938 in Norfolk. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Norfolk.
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