Cost of Living in Rockingham County, Virginia
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Rockingham County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Rockingham County ranks #755 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 24%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Rockingham County, Virginia
Rockingham combines income and affordability
Rockingham County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.2% is the second-lowest profiled and comfortably below Virginia's state average of 18.6%. With a median household income of $78,468—above both state and national medians—residents enjoy strong earning power paired with manageable housing costs.
Near the top for Virginia affordability
Rockingham County's 17.2% rent-to-income ratio ranks among Virginia's most affordable markets, substantially better than the state average of 18.6%. The median rent of $1,125 remains reasonable despite above-average incomes, signaling a healthy balance between supply and demand.
Better than most regional peers
Rockingham County's $1,125 median rent falls between Roanoke County ($1,148) and Richmond County ($1,011), yet its 17.2% rent-to-income ratio beats both thanks to higher incomes. Home values of $287,900 are competitive with Roanoke County, offering solid suburban living at reasonable prices.
Strong income offsets moderate rents
Renters allocate $1,125 monthly to housing while homeowners pay $909 from a solid median income of $78,468. At 17.2%, the rent-to-income ratio is the second-best among profiled counties, reflecting the county's economic strength and housing balance.
Ideal for families prioritizing stability
Rockingham County combines strong local incomes, below-average housing burdens, and Shenandoah Valley charm—making it ideal for families seeking economic security. With the second-lowest rent-to-income ratio statewide, you'll enjoy both affordability and access to quality neighborhoods and schools.
Cost of Living Advisory: Rockingham County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Rockingham County is affordable. The median rent is $1,125/month against a median household income of $78,468, putting rent at 17.2% of income.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Rockingham County pay $1,125/month on average, compared to $909/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 19%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $45,000/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $38,957/year. With a median household income of $78,468, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 26.0% of renter households in Rockingham County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Virginia, Rockingham County is more affordable than Middlesex County by roughly 5% ($1,125/mo vs $1,071/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Rockingham County
Rent Burden
17.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,831
per month
Owner Cost Burden
13.9%
of gross income
The median home in Rockingham County may be a stretch
Median home value is $287,900. Estimated monthly cost: $2,298 vs. your max of $1,831.
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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