Moving from Boston to Norfolk (2026)
Norfolk has a COL index of 90 vs 162 for Boston (100 = US average). You'd pay about 44% less for the same lifestyle.
Save ~$1,713/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
16290
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$3,000$1,400
per month
State tax
5%5.8%
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,428$4,378
per month
Salary needed in Norfolk to match your Boston lifestyle
Based on the 44% cost of living decrease between the two cities.
| Your salary in Boston | Equivalent in Norfolk |
|---|---|
| $40K | $22,222 |
| $50K | $27,778 |
| $60K | $33,333 |
| $75K | $41,667 |
| $80K | $44,444 |
| $100K | $55,556 |
| $120K | $66,667 |
| $150K | $83,333 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Boston vs Norfolk
| Expense | Boston | Norfolk |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,428 | $4,378 |
| 1BR rent | $3,000 | $1,400 |
| Groceries | $418 | $365 |
| Transport | $90 | $55 |
| Utilities | $185 | $170 |
| Internet | $70 | $60 |
| Left after essentials | $665 | $2,328 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Norfolk cheaper than Boston?
Yes. Norfolk has a cost of living index of 90 vs 162 for Boston (100 = US average). That's about 44% cheaper.
How much will I save moving from Boston to Norfolk?
On a $75K salary, moving from Boston to Norfolk could save roughly $1,713/month on core expenses. That's ~$20,556/year.
What salary do I need in Norfolk to match my Boston lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Boston, you'd need roughly $41,667/year in Norfolk. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Norfolk to BostonBoston vs Norfolk — full comparisonBoston cost of livingNorfolk cost of living
Estimates based on Q1 2026 COL index and market data. Budget uses simplified federal/state tax rates at $75K. Zillow · BLS · Numbeo · For general guidance only