Virginia Beach, VA: Cost of Living Guide for Residents and Newcomers

The city of Virginia Beach, VA, is known for its diverse culture, sandy beaches, and family-oriented communities. Before making this move, you should assess the lifestyle cost you will incur. This lifestyle cost includes housing, transportation, groceries, and entertainment. This will help you come up with a budget you are comfortable with. This guide provides a detailed breakdown of living expenses to help both newcomers and long-term residents plan their budgets with confidence.

Brief Overview

Virginia Beach is one of the best places to live in the United States. It has the best of both worlds when it comes to the city and having a beach. However, it is not the cheapest place to live. Being near the ocean makes it pricey, and housing is a large component of that. Other expensive living costs are controlled by good planning. They include utilities, transportation, healthcare, and groceries. Overall, the cost of living is a bit more than average in most places in the United States.

Key Highlights

• Housing: Renting a one-bedroom apartment costs $1,400–$1,800 in the city center; the median home price is $400,000.
• Transportation: Most residents rely on cars; monthly bus passes are $50–$60.
• Utilities: Average $150–$250 per month; internet ranges from $50 to $80 per month.
• Groceries: Slightly above national average; milk ~$3.50, bread ~$3.00, chicken ~$4–$5 per lb.
• Healthcare: Monthly premiums are ~$450 for individuals and ~$1,200 for families.
• Lifestyle: Affordable entertainment options with free beach access and cultural activities.
• Overall: The cost of living is moderately higher than the national average but lower than major metro areas like Washington, D.C.

Housing Costs in Virginia Beach

Of all expenses in Virginia Beach, housing is undoubtedly the highest. Prices fluctuate based on a number of factors, including location, size, and amenities. For instance, renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city center costs anywhere from $1,400 to $1,800. For one-bedrooms outside the center, the average rent costs $1,100 to $1,400. Some high-end complexes, especially those that are larger, luxury units or located close to the oceanfront and in popular areas such as Hilltop or Lynnhaven, will charge significantly higher prices. In addition to rent, most communities will charge for parking and pet fees, and all will charge for utilities, so these expenses should be considered in monthly budgets.

Some people may want to purchase their own home. Currently, the average house cost in Virginia Beach is $400,000; however, there is a wide price disparity among coastal areas, waterfront properties, and houses located in highly rated school districts, which cost over $600,000. On top of this, people should add monthly/annual expenses such as property taxes, homeowners’ association fees, and homeowners’ insurance. To make the best housing decision, people should periodically check Virginia Beach apartments for rent as well as stay updated on the local housing market for both renting and buying housing.

Utilities and Internet

The utility costs in Virginia Beach are about the same as the national average. The costs can vary based on the size of your home, your energy usage, and the season. The utilities that are typically spent on are water, heating, and electricity. The average cost is about $150 to $250 a month, which can be higher for larger homes that have a lot of outdoor lighting and air conditioning. These costs can be higher in summer months, especially in July and August, with the extreme heat. The use of energy-efficient appliances can help alleviate high energy bills. Smart thermostats also help keep high energy bills at bay while you are comfortable.

There are several Internet service providers that offer high-speed Internet services with high monthly costs, ranging from $50 to $80. Virginia Beach also provides optical and fiber internet service in most of its neighborhoods. Fiber internet is good for video streaming and gaming. When setting aside a budget to track your monthly expenses, it is good to keep in mind your utility and internet costs.

Transportation Expenses in Virginia Beach, VA

Virginia Beach is a largely car-dependent city, as most residents rely on personal vehicles to commute to work, run errands, and explore nearby areas. Gas prices are generally close to the national average, making fuel costs predictable, but car insurance can vary widely depending on driving history and coverage levels, typically ranging from $1,200 to $1,800 per year. Parking costs, maintenance, and occasional tolls are additional considerations for vehicle owners. Those living closer to work or popular areas may have slightly lower transportation expenses, while residents commuting to nearby cities like Norfolk, Chesapeake, or Hampton may face higher fuel and toll costs.

For individuals who prefer public transit, the Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) system offers bus service throughout the city. Monthly passes range from $50 to $60, though coverage is limited compared to car travel. The table below summarizes typical transportation costs in Virginia Beach:

Transportation Type	Average Cost per Month/Year	Notes
Gasoline	$150–$250 per month	Depends on commute and vehicle efficiency
Car Insurance	$1,200–$1,800 per year	Varies by driver history and coverage
Public Transit (Bus Pass)	$50–$60 per month	Limited coverage, mostly urban routes
Parking & Maintenance	$50–$150 per month	Depends on vehicle and location

Choosing a neighborhood with easy commutes or good access to public transit can significantly impact both your monthly budget and quality of life in Virginia Beach.

Grocery and Food Costs in Virginia Beach, VA

Because Virginia Beach is a coastal city and a popular tourist destination, its grocery and food expenses are slightly above the national average. Food staples include a gallon of milk for $3.50, a loaf of bread for $3.00, a dozen eggs for $2.50 to $3.00, and a pound of chicken breast for $4.00 to $5.00. Fresh seafood, produce, and specialty items will depend on the season and store availability and may be more expensive. Meal planning, shopping at local markets, and bulk buying can help residents keep grocery costs down while providing a balanced diet.

The versatility of the food and dining scene in Virginia Beach allows residents to spend as much or as little as they want, depending on their budget and lifestyle. Casual dining spots will charge $12 to $20 per person, while midrange places will be $25 to $50 per person. For frequent diners or families, the costs can become substantial, which is why it is important to budget for both dining and groceries. For homeowners selling houses in Virginia Beach, knowing the grocery and food prices and the dining scene can be important, as they become driving factors for buyers.

Healthcare Costs in Virginia Beach, VA

Virginia Beach offers numerous accessible healthcare options, including several hospitals, outpatient clinics, and specialty clinics. When preparing a budget, people need to calculate both insurance premiums and out-of-pocket medical expenses. On average, an individual pays $450 and a family pays $1,200 monthly for health insurance. However, this amount varies by health insurance provider, plan, and coverage. Most insurance programs offer the same services for the same prices. Ongoing medical needs and specialty services will increase monthly expenses. Medical facilities will help people decide which neighborhood they prefer for long-term stays.

When budgeting for healthcare, monthly expenses typically include:

• Health insurance premiums
• Covered doctor visits and preventive care
• Emergency services, depending on plan coverage
• Prescription medications and ongoing treatments
• Additional costs for specialty care or chronic conditions

Ongoing healthcare needs will increase monthly expenses. Prioritize your medical needs, and specialty services will help you decide which neighborhood will be best for you.

Entertainment and Lifestyle

Virginia Beach is known for its recreational activities that people of all ages can enjoy, ranging from various outdoor activities to gym memberships at about $30 to $60 per month. Movie tickets are $15 but are sometimes discounted at local theaters. Public beaches are free, but parking is sometimes payable, as are some amenities. Residents can also enjoy free or low-cost activities such as walking trails, parks, and water-based recreation throughout the Virginia Beach area, making it easy to enjoy the coastal lifestyle without overspending.

Virginia Beach also has many activities that are not outdoor-based. There are many music festivals, art galleries, and community events that are all free! If you’re looking for a complete guide, you can check out free things to do in Virginia Beach, VA, to plan your visit. Dining also ranges from very affordable to mid-range to suit all people. Proximity to beaches, parks, and cultural attractions is also a strong selling point for homeowners, as buyers often prioritize access to outdoor recreation and community events.

Comparing Virginia Beach to Other Cities

Other housing-related factors in Virginia Beach, VA, also influence overall living expenses. Average home values are approximately $400,000, and the cost of renting an apartment with one bedroom ranges from $1,100 to $1,800. Compared to the average cost of homes in other major metropolitan areas in the country, such as Washington, D.C., New York City, and Boston, these prices are very low. Therefore, for people wanting to experience an urban coastal lifestyle, Virginia Beach is very affordable compared to other major cities with coastlines.

Living expenses that are related to groceries, healthcare, and transportation are pretty reasonable as well. This, coupled with the high quality of life that Virginia Beach offers, makes living there very comfortable. The coastal city features beaches, parks, and cultural and recreational activities. All of these amenities provide a high quality of life. Overall, the city of Virginia Beach is a great option for families, retirees, and working professionals who desire an urban city with great amenities but also want to enjoy the peace and comfort of a smaller, manageable one.

---

Virginia Beach, VA, offers a unique combination of oceanfront views, city conveniences, and safe, family-oriented communities. Although housing can be expensive here, if recreation, groceries, travel, and utilities are budgeted, a reasonable lifestyle can be achieved. Knowing these costs will assist residents and newcomers in planning their budget when experiencing all that the city has to offer.

Do you need to sell your home in Virginia Beach? Whether you want to sell your Virginia Beach house fast for cash or avoid costly repairs, O'Neill Home Buyers is here to help. We offer fair cash offers, manage all the details, and make the process completely hassle-free. As trusted cash home buyers in Virginia, we ensure a smooth, quick transaction so you can move forward with confidence. Ready to sell or have questions? Contact us at (757) 578-1214 for a no-obligation offer and get started today!

FAQs

What is the cost of living in Virginia Beach?

The cost of living in Virginia Beach is higher than the national average when it comes to housing, while other factors like groceries and utilities are average.

What is the average rent price in Virginia Beach?

Prices vary, with a 1-bedroom apartment in the center of the city being $1,400 to $1,800, while the outskirts of the city are around $1,100 to $1,400

What is the average house price in Virginia Beach?

The average house price is around $400,000; however, prices are higher in beachfront areas and in other highly rated school districts.

What are the average utility prices in Virginia Beach?

Typical household utilities like water, electricity, and internet average $150 to $250 per month, though the summer months could cause higher electric bills.

Is it possible to live in Virginia Beach without a car?

You can live in Virginia Beach without a car if you are in one of the areas with public transport; however, it will be extremely difficult to get around to work or other services without a car.