Cost of Living in Colonial Heights city, Virginia
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Colonial Heights city Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Colonial Heights city ranks #2,766 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 12%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Colonial Heights city, Virginia
Colonial Heights hits national affordability sweet spot
At 18.3%, Colonial Heights' rent-to-income ratio sits comfortably near the national affordability standard, giving residents healthy income left for savings and other necessities. Though the city's median household income of $76,250 barely exceeds the national average of $74,755, the modest $1,162 monthly rent keeps housing costs proportional and manageable.
Colonial Heights edges out Virginia's housing affordability average
At 18.3%, Colonial Heights performs slightly better than Virginia's state average of 18.6%, making it one of the more affordable cities in the state. The city's $1,162 median rent also runs below Virginia's state median of $1,140—a rare combination of modest income and modest housing costs.
Colonial Heights offers working-class affordability near wealthy suburbs
Colonial Heights' $1,162 rent is the cheapest among comparable Virginia cities, significantly undercutting nearby Chesapeake ($1,523) and surrounding counties like Chesterfield ($1,542). For military families, retirees, and working-class households seeking Richmond-area access, Colonial Heights delivers exceptional value.
Renters and owners pay nearly identical amounts monthly
Colonial Heights renters pay $1,162 monthly while homeowners carry $1,165—nearly identical, suggesting a balanced market. At 18.3% of a typical $6,354 monthly household income, housing costs consume roughly $1,161, leaving approximately $5,200 for all other expenses.
Colonial Heights suits budget-conscious relocators seeking stability
If you're moving on a modest income ($76K range) and value working-class stability over trendy amenities, Colonial Heights delivers both affordability and military-community support structures. This city works especially well for empty-nesters, retirees, and first-time renters seeking maximum housing affordability in central Virginia.
Cost of Living Advisory: Colonial Heights city
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Colonial Heights city, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $1,162/month in gross rent, with 31.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Colonial Heights city is $1,162/month, while owner costs run $1,165/month. Renting saves approximately $3/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $46,480/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $49,929/year. With a median household income of $76,250, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 31.0% of renter households in Colonial Heights city are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Colonial Heights city sits 5% more expensive than Mathews County ($1,108/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Colonial Heights city
Rent Burden
18.3%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,779
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.3%
of gross income
The median home in Colonial Heights city may be a stretch
Median home value is $231,700. Estimated monthly cost: $1,850 vs. your max of $1,779.
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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