Cost of Living in Surry County, Virginia
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Surry County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Surry County ranks #169 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 5%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Surry County, Virginia
Surry rents don't break the budget
At 14.4%, Surry County's rent-to-income ratio sits well below the national affordability threshold and beats the state average of 18.6%. Renters here spend roughly $858 per month while earning a median household income of $71,458—making it one of Virginia's most affordable rental markets.
A bargain among Virginia counties
Surry County ranks among Virginia's most affordable places to rent, with a ratio nearly 4 percentage points below the state average. The median gross rent of $858 is $282 cheaper than Virginia's state median, reflecting the county's rural character and lower cost of living.
Competing against neighboring counties
Compared to nearby Sussex County ($952 rent) and Washington County ($832 rent), Surry offers moderate pricing with a balanced income-to-rent equation. Homebuyers here face median home values of $235,200—more expensive than Tazewell or Sussex but more affordable than Warren County's $315,800.
Where your paycheck goes
Renters dedicate $858 monthly (14.4% of income) while homeowners spend $940 on monthly costs with a median home value of $235,200. Combined, housing absorbs a manageable share of Surry household budgets, leaving resources for other essentials.
Ready to relocate affordably?
Surry County delivers rare affordability in Virginia—rent below $900 and homeownership within reach for middle-income families. If you're weighing relocation, compare Surry's balanced costs against higher-priced neighbors like Virginia Beach or Warren County to maximize your housing dollars.
Cost of Living Advisory: Surry County
Affordability Verdict
Housing in Surry County is affordable. The median rent is $858/month against a median household income of $71,458, putting rent at 14.4% of income.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Surry County is $858/month, while owner costs run $940/month. Renting saves approximately $82/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $34,320/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $40,286/year. With a median household income of $71,458, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 27.0% of renter households in Surry County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within Virginia, Surry County is more affordable than Mecklenburg County by roughly 7% ($858/mo vs $804/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Surry County
Rent Burden
14.4%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,667
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.8%
of gross income
The median home in Surry County may be a stretch
Median home value is $235,200. Estimated monthly cost: $1,878 vs. your max of $1,667.
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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