Moving from Norfolk to Houston (2026)
Houston has a COL index of 95 vs 90 for Norfolk (100 = US average). Expect to pay about 6% more for the same lifestyle.
Pay ~$13 more/mo
on core expenses · $75K salary baseline
Key differences
COL index
9095
100 = US avg
1BR rent
$1,400$1,350
per month
State tax
5.8%None
income tax
Take-home at $75K
$4,378$4,741
per month
Salary needed in Houston to match your Norfolk lifestyle
Based on the 6% cost of living increase between the two cities.
| Your salary in Norfolk | Equivalent in Houston |
|---|---|
| $40K | $42,222 |
| $50K | $52,778 |
| $60K | $63,333 |
| $75K | $79,167 |
| $80K | $84,444 |
| $100K | $105,556 |
| $120K | $126,667 |
| $150K | $158,333 |
Monthly budget at $75K — Norfolk vs Houston
| Expense | Norfolk | Houston |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly take-home | $4,378 | $4,741 |
| 1BR rent | $1,400 | $1,350 |
| Groceries | $365 | $357 |
| Transport | $55 | $90 |
| Utilities | $170 | $175 |
| Internet | $60 | $65 |
| Left after essentials | $2,328 | $2,704 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Houston cheaper than Norfolk?
No. Houston has a cost of living index of 95 vs 90 for Norfolk (100 = US average). That's about 6% more expensive.
How much will I save moving from Norfolk to Houston?
On a $75K salary, moving from Norfolk to Houston could save roughly $13/month on core expenses. That's ~$156/year.
What salary do I need in Houston to match my Norfolk lifestyle?
To maintain the same purchasing power as $75,000 in Norfolk, you'd need roughly $79,167/year in Houston. This is based on the overall COL index difference between the two cities.
Moving from Houston to NorfolkNorfolk vs Houston — full comparisonNorfolk cost of livingHouston 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