Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
13% cheaper
Norfolk is 13% more affordable than Stockton. A $75,000 salary in Stockton is equivalent to $65,132 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 Stockton sits at 126 (national average = 100). The median home in Norfolk costs $250,000 compared to $400,000 in Stockton, a difference of $150,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,300 in Norfolk versus $1,500 in Stockton.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a narrower gap: Norfolk scores 99 while Stockton scores 101. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Norfolk (99) are lower than Stockton (101). Both are close to the national average.
Median household income in Norfolk is $51,938 compared to $54,658 in Stockton. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Norfolk.
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