Cost of Living in Middlesex County, Virginia
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Middlesex County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Middlesex County ranks #1,276 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 41%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Middlesex County, Virginia
Middlesex rents align with national norms
At 17.3%, Middlesex County's rent-to-income ratio sits below the national average and well below Virginia's 18.6% state average, signaling solid affordability for renters. The median household income of $74,154 nearly matches the national median of $74,755, making housing costs here manageable compared to much of the country.
Among Virginia's most affordable counties
Middlesex ranks favorably statewide for housing affordability, with rents 6% lower than the state median of $1,140. The county's 17.3% rent-to-income ratio beats two-thirds of Virginia counties, positioning it as a relative bargain in a state where affordability pressures are rising.
The sweet spot of the Tidewater region
Middlesex's $1,071 median rent is competitive against neighboring Northumberland ($1,053) and Nelson ($950), though both offer lower monthly costs. When paired with Middlesex's strong median income of $74,154, the county delivers better overall affordability than nearby Newport News ($1,285 rent) and Norfolk ($1,246 rent).
Housing costs stay within healthy bounds
Renters spend $1,071 monthly while homeowners pay $905 for mortgages, with both housing types consuming roughly 17% of the median household income. This balanced burden means Middlesex residents keep more income for food, healthcare, and savings compared to higher-cost Virginia markets.
A stable, affordable Tidewater option
If you're relocating to Virginia's Tidewater region and seeking affordability without sacrificing income potential, Middlesex offers rents below state average and a median home value of $299,800. Compare this 17.3% rent-to-income ratio to neighboring counties—you'll find few better balance sheets in the area.
Cost of Living Advisory: Middlesex County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Middlesex County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $1,071/month in gross rent, with 29.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
At $1,071/month rent versus $905/month in owner costs, owning is roughly $166/month cheaper — a 15% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $42,840/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $38,786/year. With a median household income of $74,154, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 29.0% of renter households in Middlesex County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Rockingham County where rent averages $1,125/month, Middlesex County is approximately 5% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Middlesex County
Rent Burden
17.3%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,730
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.6%
of gross income
The median home in Middlesex County may be a stretch
Median home value is $299,800. Estimated monthly cost: $2,393 vs. your max of $1,730.
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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