Is Boston or Virginia Beach more affordable?
Boston has a median rent of $1,783/month, while Virginia Beach is $1,350/month. Virginia Beach is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Boston, MA vs Virginia Beach, VA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Boston and Virginia Beach.
2
Boston wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Virginia Beach wins
MA
Boston
vs
VA
Virginia Beach
Overview
672,814
Population
459,470
$81,744✓
Median Income
-12.5%$71,551
Cost of Living
$1,783
Median Rent / mo
-24.3%$1,350✓
$610,400
Median Home Price
-44.3%$340,000✓
26%
Rent-to-Income %
23%
Taxes
5.00%✓
State Income Tax
5.75%
0.00%
Local Tax Rate
6.00%
Climate & Weather
45.41°F
Avg High Temp
67°F
42.48°F
Avg Low Temp
48°F
N/A
Sunny Days / Year
213 days✓
N/A
Annual Rainfall
46"
Who should choose
Boston, MA
Boston is a city in Massachusetts with a population of 672,814.
Read full Boston guide →Who should choose
Virginia Beach, VA
Virginia Beach is a city in Virginia with a population of 459,470.
Read full Virginia Beach guide →Boston vs Virginia Beach — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Boston or Virginia Beach?
Massachusetts has a 5.00% state income tax. Virginia has a 5.75% state income tax. Boston wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Boston and Virginia Beach?
Virginia Beach gets 213 sunny days/year. Avg high in Boston: 45.41°F. Avg high in Virginia Beach: 67°F
Which city is better for families — Boston or Virginia Beach?
Boston. Virginia Beach. The right choice depends on your priorities — income, affordability, taxes, and climate all play a role.
More city comparisons
Data sourced from U.S. Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics, and NOAA. Green values indicate a better outcome for that metric.