Cost of Living in Brunswick County, Virginia
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Brunswick County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Brunswick County ranks #1,039 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 33%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Brunswick County, Virginia
Brunswick stretches tight budgets further
Brunswick County's rent-to-income ratio of 19.6% approaches the 30% affordability threshold, with a median income of $52,978 that trails the national average by over $21,000. Even though nominal rent is modest at $864, the low local wages create genuine affordability pressure.
Among Virginia's least affordable counties
Brunswick's 19.6% rent-to-income ratio exceeds Virginia's 18.6% state average and reflects the county's economic challenges. The median household income of $52,978 ranks among the state's lowest, making even reasonably priced rents ($864) proportionally burdensome compared to wealthier regions.
Low income compounds moderate rents
Brunswick's $864 rent is reasonable compared to central Virginia ($951–$1,057) but exceeds the very cheapest counties like Bland ($683) and Buchanan ($712). The real problem: at $52,978, Brunswick's median income is lower than Bland's ($61,375) and Buchanan's ($42,216)—note that Buchanan is actually lower—making proportional housing costs higher.
Income-to-housing mismatch
Renters allocate $864 monthly (19.6% of income) while homeowners spend $703 (15.9% of income) on a median household income of $52,978. The gap reveals that renting consumes more of household earnings than homeowning, an unusual pattern reflecting the county's modest wage base and relatively low property values ($132,700).
Brunswick: best for homeowners with income
Brunswick County's 15.9% homeowner burden and $132,700 median home value suit buyers with external income sources or remote work. Renters face a tighter 19.6% squeeze, so weigh job prospects carefully—Brunswick's $52,978 median income may not stretch far without specialized employment or outside income support.
Cost of Living Advisory: Brunswick County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Brunswick County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $864/month in gross rent, with 25.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Brunswick County is $864/month, while owner costs run $703/month. Owning saves approximately $161/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $34,560/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $30,129/year. With a median household income of $52,978, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 25.0% of renter households in Brunswick County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Virginia, Brunswick County is more affordable than Danville city by roughly 7% ($864/mo vs $808/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Brunswick County
Rent Burden
19.6%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,236
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.9%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Brunswick County
Median home value is $132,700. Estimated monthly cost: $1,059 vs. your max of $1,236.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
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
What is the cost of living in Brunswick County, Virginia?
What is the median rent in Brunswick County?
Is Brunswick County affordable?
How does Brunswick County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Brunswick County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Brunswick County, Virginia? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Brunswick 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.
CostByCounty participates in affiliate programs. We may earn a commission when you use our links, at no extra cost to you.