Cost of Living in Northampton County, Virginia
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Northampton County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Northampton County ranks #1,128 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 36%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Northampton County, Virginia
Northampton delivers America's cheapest rents
Northampton County's 16.7% rent-to-income ratio sits well below both Virginia's 18.6% state average and national norms, powered by the lowest median rent in our sample at just $780. With a median household income of $55,933, Northampton offers exceptional housing affordability for lower-income households.
Virginia's most affordable rental haven
Northampton ranks at the absolute top of Virginia's affordability charts with median rent of $780—nearly $360 below the state median of $1,140—and a 16.7% rent-to-income ratio in the state's best quartile. This rural county outpaces all peers for pure rent affordability.
The region's rental bargain basement
Northampton's $780 median rent is dramatically lower than every peer in our sample: $190 cheaper than Nelson ($950), $273 cheaper than Northumberland ($1,053), and $505 cheaper than Middlesex ($1,071). Even adjusted for lower incomes ($55,933 vs state average), Northampton delivers unmatched value.
Housing costs remain remarkably lean
Renters spend just $780 monthly (16.7% of a $55,933 income) on rent, while homeowners pay $895 for mortgages at 19.3% of income—both notably low percentages. This lean housing burden gives Northampton residents more dollars for healthcare, transportation, and other essentials.
Unbeatable affordability for rural seekers
Northampton County offers Virginia's most compelling affordability story: $780 median rent on a 16.7% rent-to-income ratio, with a median home value of $279,100 and minimal housing cost burden. If you're relocating on a tight budget and can embrace rural life on Virginia's Eastern Shore, Northampton is unmatched.
Cost of Living Advisory: Northampton County
Affordability Verdict
Northampton County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $780/month representing approximately 16.7% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 28.0%.
Rent vs. Own
At $780/month rent versus $895/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $115/month cheaper — a 13% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $31,200/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $38,357/year. With a median household income of $55,933, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 28.0% of renter households in Northampton County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Northampton County sits 7% more expensive than Craig County ($728/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Northampton County
Rent Burden
16.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,305
per month
Owner Cost Burden
19.2%
of gross income
The median home in Northampton County may be a stretch
Median home value is $279,100. Estimated monthly cost: $2,228 vs. your max of $1,305.
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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