Cost of Living in Staunton city, Virginia
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Staunton city Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Staunton city ranks #2,029 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 35%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Staunton city, Virginia
Staunton's Urban Affordability Challenge
Staunton city's 19.0% rent-to-income ratio exceeds the national average, reflecting tight housing markets in this historic downtown revitalization hub. At $993 monthly rent and $62,586 median household income, urban amenities come at a premium compared to surrounding rural counties.
Above Virginia's Average Ratio
Staunton city's 19.0% rent-to-income ratio exceeds Virginia's 18.6% state average, placing it among the commonwealth's tighter housing markets. This premium reflects the city's growing popularity as a cultural and economic center, attracting young professionals and remote workers.
Urban Premium vs. Rural Bargains
Staunton's $993 rent significantly exceeds nearby rural counties like Shenandoah ($968) while its 19.0% ratio exceeds Southwest Virginia's affordable trio of Scott, Smyth, and Shenandoah. The urban affordability challenge reflects Staunton's renewed appeal as a downtown revitalization success story.
Balanced Urban Housing Costs
Renters in Staunton spend $993 monthly while homeowners pay $1,040—a modest $47 gap reflecting the city's accessible ownership markets. With median home values of $239,300 and median income of $62,586, first-time homebuyers find urban convenience within reasonable reach.
Staunton: Downtown Living Trade-offs
Staunton city offers walkable urban amenities at a premium—$993 rents and $239,300 homes—compared to surrounding rural Virginia. If downtown culture and community justify higher housing costs, compare Staunton's value against other revitalized small cities across the state.
Cost of Living Advisory: Staunton city
Affordability Verdict
Staunton city offers affordable rental housing at a median of $993/month — about 19.0% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Staunton city pay $993/month on average, compared to $1,040/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 $39,720/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $44,571/year. With a median household income of $62,586, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 26.0% of renter households in Staunton city are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Staunton city sits 5% less expensive than Salem city ($1,046/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Staunton city
Rent Burden
19.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,460
per month
Owner Cost Burden
19.9%
of gross income
The median home in Staunton city may be a stretch
Median home value is $239,300. Estimated monthly cost: $1,910 vs. your max of $1,460.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
$0/yr
Needed to stay within recommended threshold
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
What is the cost of living in Staunton city, Virginia?
What is the median rent in Staunton city?
Is Staunton city affordable?
How does Staunton city's rent compare to the state average?
What is the median home value in Staunton city?
Counties with Similar Housing Costs
Planning a Move?
Researching the cost of living in Staunton city, Virginia? Compare moving quotes from top providers and save on your relocation.
Compare Moving QuotesCompare Mortgage Rates in Staunton city
Whether you're buying your first home or refinancing, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.
See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.
CostByCounty participates in affiliate programs. We may earn a commission when you use our links, at no extra cost to you.