Virginia, known as the "Old Dominion", is a prosperous Mid-Atlantic state with costs near national average outside D.C. metro. Here is everything you need to know about the cost of living in the Old Dominion — from housing and groceries to taxes, utilities, childcare, and what salary you actually need.
Here is what a typical month costs in Virginia for a single person earning the median income of $80,600/year:
Each category shows how Virginia compares to the national average. Green means cheaper, yellow means similar, orange/red means more expensive.
Adjust your salary to see a detailed monthly budget breakdown for living in Virginia.
Select a state to see how much salary you would need there to maintain the same lifestyle you have in Virginia.
The most popular cities for residents and newcomers in Virginia:
Housing is the single biggest expense in Virginia, as it is everywhere. The median home price in Virginia is $385,000, and the median rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,400/month. With a housing cost index of 106, Virginia housing is 6% more expensive than the national average.
Housing costs in Virginia are above average but manageable for households earning the median income. The 30% rule (spend no more than 30% of gross income on housing) is achievable in most areas.
Virginia has a state income tax rate of 5.75%. On the median household income of $80,600, you will pay approximately $4,635/year in state income tax ($386/month). This is a moderate rate that most households can absorb.
The average single person in Virginia spends approximately $415/month on groceries. A family of four can expect to spend $1,038-$1,245/month. The food cost index of 99 means groceries in Virginia are 1% below the national average.
Gas prices in Virginia average $3.25/gallon. For the average commuter driving 15,000 miles/year at 25 MPG, that is roughly $1,950/year in fuel costs.
Virginia healthcare costs are 4% below the national average (index: 96). The average annual healthcare cost per person in Virginia is approximately $5,760 including premiums and out-of-pocket expenses. Employer-sponsored health insurance covers the majority of working adults.
Infant daycare in Virginia averages $1,150/month ($13,800/year). This is a significant expense that rivals rent in many areas. Many families in Virginia find that one parent staying home is more cost-effective when two or more children need daycare.
Virginia offers a solid balance of cost, opportunity, and quality of life. With costs near the national average, you get access to growing job markets in Virginia Beach and Norfolk, and a cost of living that leaves room for saving and investing.
See all Virginia financial calculators:
Virginia (VA) has a cost of living index of 103, meaning it is 3% more expensive than the US average. Housing is the biggest factor with an index of 106. The median rent is $1,400/month and the median home price is $385,000. Virginia ranks #34 out of 50 states for affordability (1 = cheapest).
For a single person, a comfortable salary in Virginia is approximately $104,780/year ($8,732/month). For a family of four, aim for $177,320/year. This covers housing at 30% of income, groceries ($415/mo), transportation, healthcare, and a 15% savings rate. The median household income in Virginia is $80,600.
The median rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Virginia is approximately $1,400/month. A two-bedroom averages $1,890/month. Rent varies significantly by city: Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Richmond are the most popular metro areas. Housing costs in Virginia are above average — budget carefully.
Virginia offers a balanced lifestyle with costs near the national average. Growing job markets in Virginia Beach and Norfolk attract new residents.
The most affordable areas in Virginia are typically smaller cities and rural areas away from the major metros. Within Virginia, costs can vary 20-40% between the most expensive city (Virginia Beach metro) and more affordable areas. Arlington and Chesapeake tend to offer lower costs while still providing good amenities and job opportunities.
The average monthly grocery bill in Virginia for a single person is approximately $415 ($1,038 for a family of four). Virginia food costs are 1% below the national average. Shopping at Walmart, Aldi, and local discount stores can reduce this by 15-25%.
The average monthly electric bill in Virginia is approximately $140. Total utilities (electric, gas, water, internet) average $308/month. Virginia utilities are 1% above the national average. Utility costs are manageable for most households.
Virginia has a state income tax rate of 5.75%. On the median household income of $80,600, that is approximately $4,635/year in state income tax. This is a moderate rate near the national average.