Cost of Living in Virginia
Things cost about the same here as the national average.
What Things Cost in Virginia
Compared to the US national average
See raw index numbers
US national average = 100. Source: BEA Regional Price Parities 2023.
Virginia is a state of contrasts, from the wealth of Northern Virginia's D.C. suburbs to the affordability of the Shenandoah Valley. The statewide cost of living is only about 3.5% above the national average, but Northern Virginia (Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun counties) is among the most expensive areas in the country due to federal government and defense contractor employment. Richmond has emerged as one of the best mid-size cities on the East Coast, with a food and brewery scene, historic neighborhoods, and costs below the national average. Virginia Beach offers military-economy stability and ocean access.
Virginia at a Glance
Taxes in Virginia
Virginia's state income tax tops out at Up to 5.75%. The combined sales tax averages 5.3%. Property taxes run about 0.8% of home value, which on a $380,000 median home means roughly $3,040/year.
Cities in Virginia
Ranked from least to most expensive. Index 100 = national average.
Explore Virginia
FAQ About Virginia
Yes. Richmond's cost of living is near or slightly below the national average, with median home prices around $380,000. Desirable neighborhoods like the Fan, Museum District, and Church Hill offer walkable urban living at prices well below comparable neighborhoods in D.C., Baltimore, or Charlotte. The food and brewery scene has elevated Richmond's profile without inflating prices to match. For young professionals priced out of D.C., Richmond is increasingly the answer.
Very. Arlington, Fairfax, and Loudoun counties have some of the highest median household incomes and housing costs in the country. Median home prices exceed $380,000 in many NoVA communities and top $1 million in Arlington and parts of Fairfax. The cost is driven by federal government employment, defense contractors, and tech companies. The trade-off is access to some of the highest-paying job markets in America.
Virginia has a graduated income tax with rates of 2%, 3%, 5%, and 5.75%. The top rate of 5.75% applies to income above $17,000, which means virtually all middle-class earners pay the top rate. This is effectively a near-flat tax at 5.75% for most people. Combined with moderate sales and property taxes, Virginia's total tax burden is near the national average.