Love may be priceless, Valentine’s Day isn’t

(The Center Square) – Love may be priceless, but for Virginia couples planning Valentine’s Day celebrations, the cost of a night out can depend on more than just the restaurant.

Dinner reservations, quick getaways, and traditional gifts may look similar across the commonwealth. The final totals, however, often vary depending on where couples spend.

Meals taxes are one reason.

Restaurant purchases are subject to Virginia’s sales tax, and many cities and counties also impose meals taxes on top of that base rate. Norfolk applies a 6.5% meals tax, while Chesapeake and Virginia Beach each use a 6% rate.

The difference may appear minor. It becomes easier to notice on the receipt.

Even when menu prices match, the final totals can differ once local taxes are added. The gaps are usually small, but they can become more noticeable across multiple outings.

Overnight trips add another cost factor.

Virginia localities levy transient occupancy taxes, widely known as bed taxes, on hotel stays. Virginia Beach use...