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
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Arlington County ranks #2,111 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 33%)
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.
Cost of Living Advisory: Arlington County
Affordability Verdict
Arlington County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $2,275/month representing approximately 19.5% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 26.0%.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Arlington County pay $2,275/month on average, compared to $2,893/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 21%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $91,000/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $123,986/year. With a median household income of $140,160, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 26.0% of renter households in Arlington County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Falls Church city where rent averages $2,205/month, Arlington County is approximately 3% more expensive.
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
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
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Based on the 30% rule for rent and 28% rule for housing costs (mortgage + owner costs). Mortgage estimate assumes 20% down, 7.2% interest, 30-year fixed.
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.
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