Cost of Living in Bedford County, Virginia
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Bedford County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Bedford County ranks #723 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 23%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Bedford County, Virginia
Bedford balances income and affordability well
Bedford County's rent-to-income ratio of 14.8% ranks among Virginia's best, and residents spend well under the 30% affordability threshold. At $77,644, the median household income exceeds the national average of $74,755, giving Bedford residents comfortable cushion against housing costs.
One of Virginia's best housing values
Bedford's 14.8% rent-to-income ratio beats the state average of 18.6% by nearly four percentage points, and its $955 median rent runs $185 below Virginia's state average. The county consistently ranks among the state's most affordable housing markets for renters and buyers alike.
Competitive rents with stronger income
Bedford's $955 rent matches nearby Botetourt County ($951) and beats Augusta County ($1,057), while offering a median income of $77,644. This combination—affordable rent plus above-average income—makes Bedford particularly attractive compared to rural neighbors like Bath County.
Nearly identical rent and mortgage costs
Renters pay $955 monthly while homeowners spend $935—essentially the same burden—on a median household income of $77,644. Both groups allocate roughly 14.8% to housing, making Bedford accessible for renters and achievable for first-time homebuyers eyeing the $276,600 median home value.
Bedford: the sweet spot in central Virginia
Relocating to Virginia's Piedmont region? Bedford County offers competitive rents ($955), solid local income ($77,644), and moderate home prices ($276,600) in a single package. Compare it against pricier northern counties or lower-wage southwestern areas to appreciate its balanced value proposition.
Cost of Living Advisory: Bedford County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Bedford County is affordable. The median rent is $955/month against a median household income of $77,644, putting rent at 14.8% of income.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Bedford County pay $955/month on average, compared to $935/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 2%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $38,200/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $40,071/year. With a median household income of $77,644, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 27.0% of renter households in Bedford County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Bedford County sits 5% less expensive than Nottoway County ($1,009/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Bedford County
Rent Burden
14.8%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,812
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.5%
of gross income
The median home in Bedford County may be a stretch
Median home value is $276,600. Estimated monthly cost: $2,208 vs. your max of $1,812.
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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