Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
12% cheaper
Richmond is 12% more affordable than Portland. A $75,000 salary in Portland is equivalent to $66,026 in Richmond.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Maine salaries · Virginia salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Portland has a housing index of 137 while Richmond sits at 108 (national average = 100). The median home in Portland costs $395,000 compared to $300,000 in Richmond, a difference of $95,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,700 in Portland versus $1,400 in Richmond.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Portland scores 107 while Richmond scores 100.
Healthcare costs in Portland (110) are higher than Richmond (100).
Median household income in Portland is $56,895 compared to $50,120 in Richmond. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Richmond.
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