Cost of Living in Scott County, Virginia
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Scott County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Scott County ranks #1,220 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 39%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Scott County, Virginia
Scott County's Rent Bargain
At 17.7%, Scott County's rent-to-income ratio beats the national average by offering households more breathing room in their budgets. The typical renter here spends just $665 per month—less than half the national median rent—while earning a median household income of $45,136.
Among Virginia's Most Affordable
Scott County ranks among Virginia's most housing-friendly counties, with a 17.7% rent-to-income ratio that undercuts the state average of 18.6%. This affordability advantage means families and renters stretching modest incomes find better odds here than across most of the commonwealth.
Southwest Virginia's Affordable Core
Neighboring Smyth County matches Scott's affordability at 17.7%, while both significantly undercut Shenandoah County's 18.0% ratio and its higher median rent of $968. This tight cluster of affordable counties offers renters and homebuyers genuine alternatives to pricier regions across the state.
Housing Costs in Context
Renters in Scott County spend $665 monthly while homeowners pay $472—a remarkably compact difference that reflects the county's overall affordability. With a median home value of $122,300, both rental and ownership paths remain accessible to households earning the county's $45,136 median income.
Consider Scott for Affordability
If you're weighing relocation for cost of living, Scott County delivers one of Virginia's best rent-to-income ratios without sacrificing community. Compare its $665 rents and $122,300 home values against pricier northern Virginia counties to see substantial monthly savings.
Cost of Living Advisory: Scott County
Affordability Verdict
Scott County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $665/month representing approximately 17.7% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 26.0%.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Scott County pay $665/month on average, compared to $472/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 29%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $26,600/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $20,229/year. With a median household income of $45,136, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 26.0% of renter households in Scott County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Virginia, Scott County is less affordable than Wythe County by roughly 7% ($665/mo vs $718/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Scott County
Rent Burden
17.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,053
per month
Owner Cost Burden
12.5%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Scott County
Median home value is $122,300. Estimated monthly cost: $976 vs. your max of $1,053.
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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