Cost of Living in Clarke County, Virginia
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Clarke County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Clarke County ranks #343 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 11%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Clarke County, Virginia
Clarke County's rents are remarkably affordable for wealthy residents
At 14.3%, Clarke County boasts one of Virginia's lowest rent-to-income ratios, well below the national comfort threshold of 18.6%, leaving renters ample income for savings and other expenses. The county's median household income of $114,185 is 53% above the national average, creating substantial housing affordability cushion despite a $1,360 monthly rent.
Clarke County leads Virginia in housing affordability rankings
Clarke's 14.3% rent-to-income ratio significantly outperforms Virginia's 18.6% state average, making it one of the most affordable counties in the state—though with the caveat of exceptionally high incomes. This rare combination of low rent burden and high earnings makes Clarke an outlier among Virginia's housing markets.
Clarke offers luxury living with small-town affordability
Clarke's $1,360 rent is cheapest among comparable affluent counties (Culpeper at $1,417, Chesterfield at $1,542), yet its median home value of $538,900 is the region's highest. Clarke appears to attract wealthy residents willing to pay for property ownership while maintaining reasonable rental markets.
Owners carry premium costs; renters enjoy exceptional deals
Renters pay just $1,360 monthly while homeowners carry $1,743 in monthly costs, a $383 difference reflecting Clarke's expensive real estate market. At 14.3% of their $9,515 monthly income, renters spend only $1,362 on housing—among Virginia's best housing-income ratios.
Clarke County rewards well-earning relocators handsomely
If you're moving with a household income above $100K and seeking small-town Virginia character with exceptional affordability, Clarke County delivers—especially for renters willing to enjoy its Shenandoah Valley location. Aspiring homebuyers should understand that property values here ($539K median) demand substantial down payments despite affordable rents.
Cost of Living Advisory: Clarke County
Affordability Verdict
Clarke County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $1,360/month representing approximately 14.3% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 34.0%.
Rent vs. Own
At $1,360/month rent versus $1,743/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $383/month cheaper — a 22% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $54,400/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $74,700/year. With a median household income of $114,185, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 34.0% of renter households in Clarke County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Clarke County sits 4% less expensive than Culpeper County ($1,417/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Clarke County
Rent Burden
14.3%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,664
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.3%
of gross income
The median home in Clarke County may be a stretch
Median home value is $538,900. Estimated monthly cost: $4,302 vs. your max of $2,664.
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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