Cost of Living in Albemarle County, Virginia
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Albemarle County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Albemarle County, Virginia
Albemarle's housing stays affordable despite high costs
Albemarle residents spend 19.0% of household income on rent, just slightly above the national average of 18.6%, thanks to a robust median household income of $102,617. This is 37% higher than the U.S. median, allowing higher housing costs to remain proportionally manageable.
Virginia's most affordable high-cost county
Albemarle ranks among Virginia's most balanced housing markets, with a rent-to-income ratio of 19.0% just above the state average of 18.6%. Despite median rent hitting $1,623—42% above the state median—strong incomes here keep affordability stress relatively low.
Pricier than rural peers, cheaper than Northern Virginia
Albemarle's $1,623 median rent far exceeds rural counties like Amherst ($842) and Appomattox ($883), but remains $408 below nearby Alexandria ($2,031). Its $471,000 median home value sits between the rural counties and the premium-priced Northern Virginia metros.
High incomes buffer substantial housing costs
Renters pay $1,623 monthly while homeowners pay $1,611—nearly equal burdens reflecting the county's affluent market—on a median household income of $102,617. Together, housing consumes just under 19% of household income, well-managed for a county this desirable.
Albemarle rewards higher earners seeking balance
If your household income exceeds $100,000, Albemarle offers excellent quality of life with manageable housing costs despite above-state-average rents. The University of Virginia presence and Charlottesville cultural amenities make it worth the premium for affluent professionals.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Albemarle County
Rent Burden
19.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,394
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.8%
of gross income
The median home in Albemarle County may be a stretch
Median home value is $471,000. Estimated monthly cost: $3,760 vs. your max of $2,394.
Rent Affordability Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.