Side-by-side cost of living comparison for 2026
20% cheaper
Wichita is 20% more affordable than Virginia Beach. A $75,000 salary in Virginia Beach is equivalent to $60,000 in Wichita.
Index values shown. National average = 100. Lower is cheaper.
To maintain the same standard of living:
See exact take-home pay: Virginia salaries · Kansas salaries
Housing is typically the biggest factor in any cost-of-living comparison. Virginia Beach has a housing index of 112 while Wichita sits at 62 (national average = 100). The median home in Virginia Beach costs $310,000 compared to $165,000 in Wichita, a difference of $145,000. Monthly rent follows a similar pattern: $1,500 in Virginia Beach versus $900 in Wichita.
Groceries and everyday expenses show a notable difference: Virginia Beach scores 100 while Wichita scores 95. Both cities are close to the national average for grocery costs.
Healthcare costs in Virginia Beach (99) are higher than Wichita (92).
Median household income in Virginia Beach is $73,418 compared to $52,428 in Wichita. When adjusted for cost of living, income goes further in Wichita.
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