Cost of Living in Mathews County, Virginia
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Mathews County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Mathews County ranks #354 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 11%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Mathews County, Virginia
Mathews balances modest income with fair rents
At 17.6%, Mathews County's rent-to-income ratio sits slightly below the national average, offering residents a balanced housing market despite median earnings of $75,487 that nearly match the nation's $74,755. Renters here enjoy more breathing room than many peers.
Below-average burden in Virginia market
Mathews's rent-to-income ratio of 17.6% beats Virginia's state average of 18.6%, making it one of the state's more affordable options. At $1,108 median rent, it sits slightly above the state average but remains reasonable given the county's income and home values.
Mid-range pricing in peer comparison
Mathews's $1,108 rent and $823 owner cost position it squarely in the middle of the regional peer group, neither bargain nor premium. The $348,800 median home value reflects Mathews's appeal as a waterfront and rural retreat near Hampton Roads.
Mathews County's housing cost allocation
Renters dedicate 17.6% of their $75,487 income to housing, while homeowners commit approximately 13.1% to mortgage payments on homes worth around $348,800. Both figures remain well within national comfort zones for housing affordability.
Mathews suits balanced-budget relocators
If you're seeking reasonable housing costs combined with near-national-median incomes, Mathews County's waterfront lifestyle and affordability blend appeal. Compare the $75,487 median against your own income and weigh the rural location against your work and social needs.
Cost of Living Advisory: Mathews County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Mathews County is affordable. The median rent is $1,108/month against a median household income of $75,487, putting rent at 17.6% of income.
Rent vs. Own
At $1,108/month rent versus $823/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $285/month cheaper — a 26% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $44,320/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $35,271/year. With a median household income of $75,487, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 19.0% of renter households in Mathews County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Mathews County sits 5% more expensive than Augusta County ($1,057/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Mathews County
Rent Burden
17.6%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,761
per month
Owner Cost Burden
13.1%
of gross income
The median home in Mathews County may be a stretch
Median home value is $348,800. Estimated monthly cost: $2,785 vs. your max of $1,761.
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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