Cost of Living in Augusta County, Virginia
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Augusta County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Augusta County ranks #698 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 22%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Augusta County, Virginia
Augusta stays below the national housing burden
Augusta County's rent-to-income ratio of 15.9% sits comfortably below the national threshold of 30% that housing experts consider affordable. With a median household income of $79,972—higher than the national median of $74,755—Augusta residents spend less of their paychecks on rent than most Americans do.
Virginia's most affordable rental markets
Augusta ranks among Virginia's better housing values, with a rent-to-income ratio of 15.9% compared to the state average of 18.6%. The county's median rent of $1,057 falls below Virginia's state average of $1,140, making it an accessible option for renters across the income spectrum.
A sweet spot in the region
Augusta's median rent of $1,057 runs nearly identical to nearby Bedford County ($955) and Botetourt County ($951), making the three counties highly competitive for renters. However, Augusta offers slightly higher median income ($79,972) than Bath County ($61,709), giving residents more breathing room in their budgets.
Rent and ownership costs in balance
Renters pay $1,057 monthly while homeowners spend $978, a rare equilibrium in Virginia's housing market. With a median home value of $281,400 and household income of $79,972, Augusta residents allocate roughly 15.9% to rent and 14.7% to mortgage payments—both well within the affordable range.
Consider Augusta for stable housing costs
If you're relocating to Virginia and want reasonable rent, strong local incomes, and moderate home values, Augusta County delivers on all three fronts. Compare its $1,057 median rent and $79,972 median income against pricier Northern Virginia markets or lower-income southwestern counties to see the advantage.
Cost of Living Advisory: Augusta County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Augusta County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $1,057/month in gross rent, with 26.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Augusta County is $1,057/month, while owner costs run $978/month. Owning saves approximately $79/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $42,280/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $41,914/year. With a median household income of $79,972, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 26.0% of renter households in Augusta County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Virginia, Augusta County is less affordable than Mathews County by roughly 5% ($1,057/mo vs $1,108/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Augusta County
Rent Burden
15.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,866
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.7%
of gross income
The median home in Augusta County may be a stretch
Median home value is $281,400. Estimated monthly cost: $2,247 vs. your max of $1,866.
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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