Cost of Living in Northumberland County, Virginia
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Northumberland County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Northumberland County ranks #178 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 6%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Northumberland County, Virginia
Northumberland rents track Virginia average
At 18.2%, Northumberland County's rent-to-income ratio sits just below Virginia's 18.6% state average and reflects solid affordability by national standards. The median household income of $69,500 approaches the national median of $74,755, while $1,053 monthly rent sits slightly below the state median of $1,140.
Right in Virginia's affordability sweet spot
Northumberland ranks near the state median for affordability, with an 18.2% rent-to-income ratio that matches or beats approximately half of Virginia counties. The combination of reasonable rents ($1,053) and solid incomes ($69,500) positions the county as a balanced option statewide.
The moderate-cost rural option
Northumberland's $1,053 median rent falls between cheaper Nelson ($950) and pricier Middlesex ($1,071), offering a moderate rural alternative. With a higher median home value ($333,100) than all rural peers despite moderate rent, Northumberland attracts both renters and homeowners seeking balance.
Rents and mortgages share income burden
Renters spend $1,053 monthly (18.2% of income) while homeowners pay $810 for mortgages (14% of income), showing ownership offers meaningful savings in this county. The 4.2 percentage-point gap between rent and ownership burden suggests strong incentives for buyers with adequate down payments.
Balanced option for Tidewater movers
Northumberland County strikes an appealing middle ground: 18.2% rent-to-income ratio, $69,500 median income, and $333,100 median home value offer solid value for Tidewater relocations. If you want rural charm without the rock-bottom prices of Northampton or the urban costs of Newport News, Northumberland deserves serious consideration.
Cost of Living Advisory: Northumberland County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Northumberland County is affordable. The median rent is $1,053/month against a median household income of $69,500, putting rent at 18.2% of income.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Northumberland County pay $1,053/month on average, compared to $810/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 23%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $42,120/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $34,714/year. With a median household income of $69,500, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 20.0% of renter households in Northumberland County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Virginia, Northumberland County is less affordable than Powhatan County by roughly 5% ($1,053/mo vs $1,107/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Northumberland County
Rent Burden
18.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,622
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.0%
of gross income
The median home in Northumberland County may be a stretch
Median home value is $333,100. Estimated monthly cost: $2,659 vs. your max of $1,622.
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 Northumberland County, Virginia?
What is the median rent in Northumberland County?
Is Northumberland County affordable?
How does Northumberland County's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Northumberland County?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Northumberland County, Virginia? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Northumberland County
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.