Cost of Living in Southampton County, Virginia
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Southampton County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Southampton County ranks #1,130 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 36%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Southampton County, Virginia
Southampton's Best-in-Class Ratio
Southampton County posts Virginia's best rent-to-income ratio at 16.3%, beating both the national average and most comparable counties statewide. With $930 monthly rent and a $68,465 median household income, working renters here enjoy genuine financial breathing room.
Virginia's Affordability Champion
At 16.3%, Southampton County's rent-to-income ratio is the lowest among these profiled Virginia counties, significantly outperforming the state average of 18.6%. This advantage reflects both moderate rents and solid median household incomes relative to housing costs.
Southampton Leads the Region
Southampton County's 16.3% ratio and $930 rent edge out nearby counties, offering renters the best value proposition in its geographic area. Its affordability advantage proves especially pronounced when compared to higher-cost regions elsewhere in the state.
Balanced Rental and Owner Costs
Renters in Southampton spend $930 monthly while homeowners pay $976—a narrow $46 gap that reflects balanced housing markets. With a median home value of $208,800 and median income of $68,465, both renting and ownership remain reasonably accessible.
Southampton: Your Affordability Best Bet
Southampton County delivers Virginia's tightest rent-to-income ratio at 16.3%, making it an optimal choice for cost-conscious relocators. Compare its $930 rents and $208,800 home values against pricier counties to see why budget-focused families should seriously evaluate this option.
Cost of Living Advisory: Southampton County
Affordability Verdict
Southampton County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $930/month representing approximately 16.3% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 30.0%.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Southampton County pay $930/month on average, compared to $976/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 5%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $37,200/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $41,829/year. With a median household income of $68,465, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 30.0% of renter households in Southampton County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Virginia, Southampton County is less affordable than King and Queen County by roughly 5% ($930/mo vs $982/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Southampton County
Rent Burden
16.3%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,598
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.1%
of gross income
The median home in Southampton County may be a stretch
Median home value is $208,800. Estimated monthly cost: $1,667 vs. your max of $1,598.
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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