Last updated 2026-06-15 ยท MovePlan Editorial Team
Below the national average, a walkable Navy town cheaper than Virginia Beach next door.
Cost of living index (US avg = 100): 96
Median 2BR rent: $1,500/mo
Housing: 90 vs 100
Groceries: 98 vs 100
Utilities: 104 vs 100
Transportation: 98 vs 100
Healthcare: 98 vs 100
Norfolk pairs a major naval base, walkable historic neighborhoods, and rent friendlier than Virginia Beach. Affordable housing is the draw, with coastal flood risk a consideration.