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
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Hampton city ranks #2,954 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 6%)
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.
Cost of Living Advisory: Hampton city
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Hampton city is affordable. The median rent is $1,346/month against a median household income of $67,758, putting rent at 23.8% of income.
Rent vs. Own
At $1,346/month rent versus $1,350/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $4/month cheaper — a 0% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $53,840/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $57,857/year. With a median household income of $67,758, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 32.0% of renter households in Hampton city are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Hampton city sits 4% less expensive than Frederick County ($1,402/month) in terms of median gross rent.
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
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
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
What is the cost of living in Hampton city, Virginia?
What is the median rent in Hampton city?
Is Hampton city affordable?
How does Hampton city's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Hampton city?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Hampton city, Virginia? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Hampton city
Whether you're buying your first home or refinancing, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.
See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
CostByCounty participates in affiliate programs. We may earn a commission when you use our links, at no extra cost to you.