Cost of Living in Arlington County, Virginia
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Arlington County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Arlington County, Virginia
Arlington's premium justified by top incomes
Arlington residents spend 19.5% of household income on housing, just slightly above the national average of 18.6%, despite owning costs of $2,893 monthly. With a median household income of $140,160—88% above the U.S. median—Arlington's very affluent residents absorb premium prices.
Virginia's most expensive housing market
Arlington's median home value of $864,800 ranks as Virginia's highest, and its owner costs of $2,893 monthly exceed all other surveyed counties. Yet the rent-to-income ratio of 19.5% stays just above the state average of 18.6%, thanks to extraordinary incomes.
Slightly cheaper than nearby Alexandria overall
Arlington's $2,893 monthly owner costs exceed Alexandria's $2,635, while Alexandria's $2,031 rent tops Arlington's implied rental market. Arlington's $864,800 median home value slightly edges Alexandria's $696,800, reflecting the county's extreme desirability.
Housing-income ratio tells Arlington's real story
With owner costs at $2,893 monthly on a median household income of $140,160, Arlington's 19.5% housing burden stays remarkably low despite the nation's highest absolute costs. This is a county where housing affordability improves as incomes rise.
Arlington for six-figure earners seeking premium
If your household income exceeds $140,000 and you prioritize walkability, transit access, and proximity to D.C., Arlington's premium costs remain manageable. For middle-income earners, this county's housing costs will strain budgets despite strong incomes compared to the state.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Arlington County
Rent Burden
19.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$3,270
per month
Owner Cost Burden
24.8%
of gross income
The median home in Arlington County may be a stretch
Median home value is $864,800. Estimated monthly cost: $6,904 vs. your max of $3,270.
Rent Affordability Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Arlington County, Virginia?
What is the median rent in Arlington County?
Is Arlington County affordable?
How does Arlington County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Arlington County?
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Arlington County, Virginia? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCounties with Similar Housing Costs
Compare Mortgage Rates in Arlington County
Whether you're buying your first home or refinancing, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.
See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.