Cost of Living in Wise County, Virginia
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Wise County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Wise County, Virginia
Wise County delivers rare national affordability
Wise County punches above its weight in affordability, with renters paying just 18.2% of the $50,740 median household income toward rent—actually favoring renters compared to national norms. At $770 monthly, median rent here is less than a third of what Williamsburg renters pay, making this southwestern corner one of Virginia's genuine housing bargains.
Wise County: Virginia's most affordable housing market
Wise County's 18.2% rent-to-income ratio sits nearly at the Virginia state average of 18.6%, but achieves this through dramatically lower rent rather than higher wages—median rent of just $770 versus the state average of $1,140. This affordability translates to homeowners too, who pay $615 monthly on median home values of $116,500.
Wise and Wythe offer genuine affordability refuge
Wise County renters pay $770 monthly compared to Williamsburg's $1,361, while Wythe County renters pay even less at $718—both southwestern Virginia counties delivering housing costs that don't consume household budgets. Wise County's rent-to-income ratio of 18.2% mirrors Wythe's formula: lower wages, but dramatically lower housing costs that make both markets genuinely affordable.
Wise County: modest income, modest costs
At $50,740 median household income, Wise County residents earn significantly less than state and national averages, yet their $770 median rent consumes just 18.2% of income—a sustainable burden. Homeowners pay $615 monthly (14.5% of income) on properties valued at $116,500, allowing genuine financial breathing room for this coal-country community.
Wise County welcomes budget-conscious relocators
If housing affordability is your priority, Wise County offers the lowest costs in this analysis—median rent under $800 and homeownership within reach for moderate incomes. Remote workers and retirees relocating here enjoy genuine cost savings, though consider whether the region's economic transition from coal mining aligns with your career or lifestyle goals.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Wise County
Rent Burden
18.2%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,184
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.5%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Wise County
Median home value is $116,500. Estimated monthly cost: $930 vs. your max of $1,184.
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.