Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
15% cheaper
Richmond is 15% more affordable than Newark. A $75,000 salary in Newark is equivalent to $63,843 in Richmond.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: New Jersey salaries · Virginia salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Newark has a housing index of 149 while Richmond sits at 108 (national average = 100). The median home in Newark costs $340,000 compared to $300,000 in Richmond, a difference of $40,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,400 in Newark versus $1,400 in Richmond.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Newark scores 103 while Richmond scores 100. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Newark (105) are higher than Richmond (100). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Newark is $40,014 compared to $50,120 in Richmond. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Richmond.
Amazon affiliate links