Cost of Living in Washington County, Virginia
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Washington County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Washington County, Virginia
Washington County: truly affordable rents
Washington County's 15.9% rent-to-income ratio beats both Virginia's state average (18.6%) and the national affordability benchmark, with rents at just $832 monthly. The median household income of $62,774 runs below the national average of $74,755, yet housing affordability remains exceptional.
One of Virginia's best rental bargains
Washington County ranks among the state's most affordable counties for renters, combining low rents ($832) with a manageable income-to-cost ratio. At 15.9%, the rent burden trails Virginia's 18.6% average, making housing stress noticeably lower than typical for the state.
Cheaper rents than most neighbors
Washington's $832 rent undercuts Warren ($1,199), Virginia Beach ($1,649), Waynesboro ($972), and Westmoreland ($991), rivaling only Tazewell ($738). For homebuyers, Washington's median home value of $201,800 sits mid-range—affordable compared to Warren and Virginia Beach but pricier than Tazewell.
Both rents and ownership stay cheap
Renters spend $832 monthly (15.9% of income) while homeowners pay $714 for properties valued at $201,800—making ownership remarkably affordable. This county shows rare affordability across both rental and ownership markets, suggesting healthy housing stock diversity.
Washington County: real affordability
Washington County offers authentic housing affordability—rents below $850 and home values under $202,000 with a rent-to-income ratio below 16%. Relocators seeking genuine housing cost relief should prioritize Washington over pricier Virginia Beach or Warren County.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Washington County
Rent Burden
15.9%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,465
per month
Owner Cost Burden
13.6%
of gross income
The median home in Washington County may be a stretch
Median home value is $201,800. Estimated monthly cost: $1,611 vs. your max of $1,465.
Rent Affordability Guide
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.