Cost of Living in Norton city, Virginia
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Norton city Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Norton city ranks #1,854 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 41%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Norton city, Virginia
Norton's rent burden exceeds national norms
Renters in Norton city spend 20.9% of income on rent, compared to the national average of about 28% for all renters, signaling relatively moderate costs for this southwestern Virginia city. However, Norton's median household income of $38,497 falls 49% below the national median of $74,755, making housing less affordable in real terms despite lower percentage costs.
Slightly above Virginia's affordability threshold
At 20.9%, Norton's rent-to-income ratio edges above Virginia's state average of 18.6%, placing it in the middle tier of Virginia affordability. The city's median rent of $670 runs $470 below the statewide average of $1,140, reflecting the lower cost of living in Southwest Virginia.
Norton vs. Patrick and Page counties
Norton's $670 monthly rent sits between Patrick County ($721) and Page County ($851), making it the most affordable rental option among these nearby Southwest Virginia communities. However, Norton renters face the highest burden relative to income in this cluster due to the city's lower median household income.
Where Norton's income goes
Renters spend $670 monthly while homeowners pay $582 in monthly costs, making ownership slightly cheaper than renting for those who can qualify. With median household income at $38,497, Norton residents dedicate roughly 21% to rent or 18% to mortgage payments—tight but manageable for most.
Consider Norton for affordability
If you're seeking low housing costs in Virginia, Norton city offers some of the state's most accessible rents and purchase prices, with median home values under $101,000. Just ensure your income aligns with the local median of $38,497 to maintain true affordability once you arrive.
Cost of Living Advisory: Norton city
Affordability Verdict
Norton city is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $670/month representing approximately 20.9% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 27.0%.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Norton city pay $670/month on average, compared to $582/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 13%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $26,800/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $24,943/year. With a median household income of $38,497, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 27.0% of renter households in Norton city are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Patrick County where rent averages $721/month, Norton city is approximately 7% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Norton city
Rent Burden
20.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$898
per month
Owner Cost Burden
18.1%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Norton city
Median home value is $100,700. Estimated monthly cost: $804 vs. your max of $898.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
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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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