Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
23% cheaper
Norfolk is 23% more affordable than Riverside. A $75,000 salary in Riverside is equivalent to $58,008 in Norfolk.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Virginia salaries · California salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Norfolk has a housing index of 95 while Riverside sits at 155 (national average = 100). The median home in Norfolk costs $250,000 compared to $500,000 in Riverside, a difference of $250,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,300 in Norfolk versus $1,800 in Riverside.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Norfolk scores 99 while Riverside scores 103. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Norfolk (99) are lower than Riverside (102). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Norfolk is $51,938 compared to $67,068 in Riverside. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Norfolk.
Amazon affiliate links