Cost of Living in Charles City County, Virginia
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Charles City County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Charles City County ranks #1,581 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 50%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Charles City County, Virginia
Charles City stays slightly below state average
Charles City County's 18.4% rent-to-income ratio sits just below Virginia's state average of 18.6%, supported by median household income of $70,339 and rents of $1,076. The county offers near-average affordability for Virginia residents earning moderately above national medians.
Middle ground in Virginia's affordability rankings
Charles City ranks near the middle of Virginia's affordability spectrum, with costs and incomes both slightly above state averages. The county's 18.4% rent-to-income ratio places it just below the state median, making it reliable but unremarkable.
Bridges affordable and expensive county markets
Charles City's $1,076 rent falls between affordable Campbell ($853) and expensive Buena Vista ($1,067), while owner costs of $943 split differences with neighboring counties. The county occupies a true middle position geographically and economically.
Housing remains near-average share of budget
Charles City residents earning $70,339 spend 18.4% on rent ($1,076) or 16.1% on owner costs ($943), consuming a slightly smaller share of income through ownership. Both pathways remain manageable for households at this income level.
Charles City offers steady, unremarkable value
Choose Charles City County if you seek Virginia housing near state averages without seeking bargains or premium amenities, with median values of $224,100. Compare to cheaper Campbell County or more expensive nearby areas to confirm fit.
Cost of Living Advisory: Charles City County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Charles City County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $1,076/month in gross rent, with 30.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Charles City County pay $1,076/month on average, compared to $943/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 12%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $43,040/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $40,414/year. With a median household income of $70,339, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 30.0% of renter households in Charles City County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Petersburg city where rent averages $1,132/month, Charles City County is approximately 5% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Charles City County
Rent Burden
18.4%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,641
per month
Owner Cost Burden
16.1%
of gross income
The median home in Charles City County may be a stretch
Median home value is $224,100. Estimated monthly cost: $1,789 vs. your max of $1,641.
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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