Cost of Living in Stafford County, Virginia
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Stafford County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Stafford County ranks #1,241 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 39%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Stafford County, Virginia
Stafford's Affluent Affordability Sweet Spot
Stafford County's 17.3% rent-to-income ratio beats the national average while commanding the state's highest median household income at $133,792. This combination delivers both reasonable housing costs and extraordinary earning power, positioning Stafford as Virginia's most prosperous county by income.
Virginia's Wealthiest County
Stafford County's 17.3% rent-to-income ratio ranks among Virginia's best while supporting a median household income of $133,792—nearly double the state and national medians. This exceptional combination reflects the county's status as a high-income suburban haven anchored by federal employment.
Stafford's Earnings Dominance
Stafford's $133,792 median household income dwarfs even neighboring Spotsylvania County's $109,576, while its $1,925 rent reflects comparable northern Virginia pricing. This income advantage means Stafford residents spend a smaller percentage of earnings on housing despite higher absolute costs.
Premium Pricing, Premium Incomes
Renters in Stafford pay $1,925 monthly while homeowners spend $2,206—the state's highest absolute housing costs—yet the $133,792 median income keeps the rent-to-income ratio at 17.3%. Median home values of $458,800 target dual-income professional households seeking northern Virginia's best schools and federal job access.
Stafford: For High-Earning Relocators
Stafford County offers the state's most expensive housing ($1,925 rents, $458,800 homes) paired with exceptional median income of $133,792—ideal for high-earning professionals relocating to D.C.-area jobs. Compare Stafford's premium costs against other northern Virginia counties to gauge value for your income level.
Cost of Living Advisory: Stafford County
Affordability Verdict
Stafford County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $1,925/month — about 17.3% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
At $1,925/month rent versus $2,206/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $281/month cheaper — a 13% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $77,000/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $94,543/year. With a median household income of $133,792, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 29.0% of renter households in Stafford County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Virginia, Stafford County is less affordable than Prince William County by roughly 4% ($1,925/mo vs $2,002/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Stafford County
Rent Burden
17.3%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$3,122
per month
Owner Cost Burden
19.8%
of gross income
The median home in Stafford County may be a stretch
Median home value is $458,800. Estimated monthly cost: $3,663 vs. your max of $3,122.
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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