Cost of Living in Dickenson County, Virginia
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Dickenson County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Dickenson County ranks #315 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 10%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Dickenson County, Virginia
Dickenson's rent burden exceeds national norm
Dickenson County's rent-to-income ratio of 20.1% surpasses the national standard of 18.6%, though the gap is modest compared to many struggling communities. Median household income of $43,831 trails the nation by 41%, while median rent of $733 represents exceptional value in absolute terms. The county demonstrates how even below-average rents can strain below-average incomes.
Among Virginia's most affordable options
Dickenson County's 20.1% rent-to-income ratio ranks better than state average of 18.6%—a rare bright spot in rural southwestern Virginia. The $733 median rent is 36% cheaper than Virginia's statewide median of $1,140, though local wages are proportionally lower. This county punches above its weight on affordability, partly due to its lower cost of living anchored by modest rents and home prices.
Dickenson leads the affordability compact
Among the region's economically similar counties, Dickenson boasts the lowest rent-to-income ratio at 20.1%, slightly better than Danville's 22.7%. Rents here ($733) undercut even Danville's ($808), and at $101,100, median home values are the lowest in this peer group. Dickenson emerges as the most affordable for renters and owners with fixed or modest incomes.
Homeownership surprisingly affordable
Dickenson renters pay $733 monthly (20.1% of income), but homeowners enjoy even better economics with median monthly costs of just $433, consuming only 11.9% of household income. The median home value of $101,100 suggests strong equity-building potential for buyers with access to mortgages. For income-constrained households, homeownership here offers a clear affordability advantage over renting.
Ideal for budget-conscious homebuyers
Dickenson County offers Virginia's lowest homeownership costs, with sub-$110k median values and monthly costs under $433—a rarity in today's market. Renters seeking the lowest possible monthly housing costs will also find relief here at $733. The tradeoff is limited job diversity and lower regional wages, making this ideal for retirees, remote workers, or those relocating for specific local employment.
Cost of Living Advisory: Dickenson County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Dickenson County is affordable. The median rent is $733/month against a median household income of $43,831, putting rent at 20.1% of income.
Rent vs. Own
At $733/month rent versus $433/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $300/month cheaper — a 41% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $29,320/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $18,557/year. With a median household income of $43,831, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 32.0% of renter households in Dickenson County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Virginia, Dickenson County is more affordable than Charlotte County by roughly 7% ($733/mo vs $682/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Dickenson County
Rent Burden
20.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,023
per month
Owner Cost Burden
11.9%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Dickenson County
Median home value is $101,100. Estimated monthly cost: $807 vs. your max of $1,023.
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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