Is Richmond or Virginia Beach more affordable?
Richmond has a median rent of $1,250/month, while Virginia Beach is $1,350/month. Richmond is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Richmond, VA vs Virginia Beach, VA
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Richmond and Virginia Beach.
2
Richmond wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
2
Virginia Beach wins
VA
Richmond
vs
VA
Virginia Beach
Overview
226,610
Population
459,470
$52,000
Median Income
+37.6%$71,551✓
Cost of Living
$1,250✓
Median Rent / mo
+8.0%$1,350
$290,000✓
Median Home Price
+17.2%$340,000
29%
Rent-to-Income %
23%
Taxes
5.75%
State Income Tax
5.75%
6.00%
Local Tax Rate
6.00%
Climate & Weather
68°F
Avg High Temp
67°F
47°F
Avg Low Temp
48°F
205 days
Sunny Days / Year
213 days✓
44"
Annual Rainfall
46"
Who should choose
Richmond, VA
Richmond is a city in Virginia with a population of 226,610.
Read full Richmond 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 →Richmond vs Virginia Beach — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Richmond or Virginia Beach?
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 Richmond and Virginia Beach?
Richmond gets 205 sunny days/year. Virginia Beach gets 213 sunny days/year. Avg high in Richmond: 68°F. Avg high in Virginia Beach: 67°F
Which city is better for families — Richmond or Virginia Beach?
Richmond. 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.