Is Virginia Beach or Richmond more affordable?
Virginia Beach has a median rent of $1,350/month, while Richmond is $1,250/month. Richmond is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Virginia Beach, VA vs Richmond, VA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Virginia Beach and Richmond.
2
Virginia Beach wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Richmond wins
VA
Virginia Beach
vs
VA
Richmond
Overview
459,470
Population
226,610
$71,551✓
Median Income
-27.3%$52,000
Cost of Living
$1,350
Median Rent / mo
-7.4%$1,250✓
$340,000
Median Home Price
-14.7%$290,000✓
23%
Rent-to-Income %
29%
Taxes
5.75%
State Income Tax
5.75%
6.00%
Local Tax Rate
6.00%
Climate & Weather
67°F
Avg High Temp
68°F
48°F
Avg Low Temp
47°F
213 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
205 days
46"
Annual Rainfall
44"
Who should choose
Virginia Beach, VA
Virginia Beach is a city in Virginia with a population of 459,470.
Read full Virginia Beach guide →Who should choose
Richmond, VA
Richmond is a city in Virginia with a population of 226,610.
Read full Richmond guide →Virginia Beach vs Richmond — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Virginia Beach or Richmond?
Virginia has a 5.75% state income tax. Virginia has a 5.75% state income tax. Both have the same state income tax rate.
What is the weather difference between Virginia Beach and Richmond?
Virginia Beach gets 213 sunny days/year. Richmond gets 205 sunny days/year. Avg high in Virginia Beach: 67°F. Avg high in Richmond: 68°F
Which city is better for families — Virginia Beach or Richmond?
Virginia Beach. Richmond. 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.