Cost of Living in Sussex County, Virginia
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Sussex County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Sussex County ranks #1,627 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 48%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Sussex County, Virginia
Sussex sits near affordability balance
Sussex County's 18.2% rent-to-income ratio nearly matches Virginia's state average of 18.6%, just above the national affordability benchmark. At $952 monthly rent against a $62,821 median household income, Sussex represents typical housing cost pressure for Virginia renters.
Mid-pack affordability in Virginia
Sussex County's rent-to-income ratio ranks near the state median, reflecting moderate housing pressure compared to pricier northern Virginia. The county's $952 median rent falls between rural Tazewell and urban centers, positioning it as a transitional affordability zone.
Trading costs with similar counties
Sussex's $952 rent undercuts Warren County ($1,199) and Virginia Beach ($1,649) but exceeds Tazewell ($738) and Washington ($832). For homebuyers, Sussex offers the lowest median home value at $178,500—significantly cheaper than all neighboring counties in this comparison.
Housing eats most of the budget
Renters pay $952 monthly (18.2% of income), while homeowners spend $831—making Sussex a better market for buyers than renters. At $62,821 median household income, residents here face tighter affordability than higher-earning neighbors, but home values of $178,500 remain accessible.
Sussex: affordable for homebuyers
If you're buying rather than renting, Sussex County offers Virginia's lowest median home value at $178,500. Renters considering relocation should compare Sussex's 18.2% ratio against cheaper rentals in Tazewell or Washington County before deciding.
Cost of Living Advisory: Sussex County
Affordability Verdict
Sussex County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $952/month — about 18.2% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Sussex County pay $952/month on average, compared to $831/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 13%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $38,080/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $35,614/year. With a median household income of $62,821, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 28.0% of renter households in Sussex County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Sussex County sits 6% more expensive than Prince Edward County ($898/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Sussex County
Rent Burden
18.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,466
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.9%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Sussex County
Median home value is $178,500. Estimated monthly cost: $1,425 vs. your max of $1,466.
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
What is the cost of living in Sussex County, Virginia?
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Counties with Similar Housing Costs
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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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