Cost of Living in Hampton city, Virginia
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Hampton city Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Hampton city, Virginia
Hampton's affordability crisis is real
Hampton City faces the worst housing affordability of any county in this comparison, with a rent-to-income ratio of 23.8%—nearly 5 percentage points above Virginia's state average of 18.6%. A median household income of $67,758 leaves residents struggling to cover $1,346 monthly rents in this urban Tidewater market.
Virginia's housing squeeze in miniature
Hampton ranks in the bottom 5% of Virginia cities and counties for housing affordability, reflecting the toll of coastal Virginia development on working-class incomes. The city's $1,346 median rent is 18% above the state average, while incomes lag the state, creating acute affordability pressure.
Costlier than rural, less wealthy
Hampton's rent of $1,346 exceeds rural Giles ($780) by $566 and rural Grayson ($712) by $634, yet incomes run only $3,000-$25,000 higher than these rural peers. Even compared to Goochland's pricey $1,567 rent, Hampton offers no affordability advantage despite serving a far lower-income population.
Urban costs on suburban wages
Renters dedicate 23.8% of their $67,758 annual income to a $1,346 monthly apartment—the highest burden in this comparison—while homebuyers face $1,350 monthly costs. Housing consumes roughly 40% of household earnings in Hampton, creating severe budget strain.
Hampton workers should explore alternatives
If your job ties you to Hampton, the affordability crisis is real—you'll pay urban prices on suburban wages with the worst ratio in this peer group. Consider relocating to Gloucester County if your employer allows—$202 cheaper rent with far better affordability—or explore remote work to escape coastal Virginia's housing premium.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Hampton city
Rent Burden
23.8%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,581
per month
Owner Cost Burden
23.9%
of gross income
The median home in Hampton city may be a stretch
Median home value is $234,100. Estimated monthly cost: $1,869 vs. your max of $1,581.
Rent Affordability Guide
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.