Virginia Cost of Living
Can you afford to live in the Old Dominion?
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Choosing to move to Virginia offers a blend of historic charm, dynamic cities and scenic countryside, but understanding your financial picture before relocating is essential. From housing markets in bustling Northern Virginia to quieter rural communities, expenses can add up in ways that surprise newcomers.
To determine the cost of living in Virginia, our team reviewed data from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis to understand average spending. We also used recent sources to gather housing, food, transportation, health care and utility costs for a full picture of everyday expenses.
People in Virginia spend $55,776 each year on goods and services, on average.
Jump to insightThe median rent in Virginia is $1,803, versus the national median rent of $1,639.
Jump to insightResidents in Virginia spend $259.76 weekly on food at home.
Jump to insightAs of August 2025, the average price per gallon of regular gas is $2.97 in Virginia.
Jump to insightRecent data shows that employees in Virginia pay $1,891 annually for employee-sponsored health insurance coverage.
Jump to insightThe average cost of living in Virginia
According to the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA), the average annual per-person spending in Virginia was $55,776 in 2023. This figure reflects the value of what residents consume each year across housing, health care, food, gas and energy, and other goods and services.
Here’s a breakdown of the largest spending categories in Virginia:
| Category | Annual per-capita cost in Virginia |
|---|---|
| Housing and utilities | $10,281 |
| Health care | $8,434 |
| Food and beverages for off-premises consumption | $4,389 |
| Gasoline and other energy goods | $1,404 |
| All other personal consumption expenditures | $31,267 |
| Total cost | $55,776 |
Housing costs in Virginia
The price of a place to live is often the deciding factor for those considering Virginia. According to 2025 data from Apartments.com, the average rent in Virginia is $1,803, which is higher than the national average rent of $1,639. Housing costs can swing dramatically depending on the region, with urban and suburban areas typically costing more.
The U.S. Census Bureau’s 2023 American Community Survey reports these average monthly rents in Virginia:
- One-bedroom rent: $1,461
- Two-bedroom rent: $1,503
- Three-bedroom rent: $1,652
- Four-bedroom rent: $2,178
For those thinking about buying, the median home price in Virginia is $477,900, compared with the U.S. median home price of $446,638.
Property taxes are another piece of the puzzle — Virginia’s effective property tax rate is ranked No. 28, with an average rate of 0.77%.
» COMPARE: Best moving companies in Virginia
Food costs in Virginia
Grocery and dining costs in Virginia can vary depending on your shopping habits and location. The latest U.S. Census data shows the average weekly grocery bill in Virginia is $259.76, compared with the U.S. average of $270.21.
Some Virginia residents may find that shopping at local farmers markets or discount grocers helps keep food expenses reasonable, particularly in smaller communities. In cities and high-traffic tourist areas, restaurant prices and specialty food stores can push budgets higher, while rural areas and suburbs may offer lower-cost options for families who prefer to cook at home.
Transportation costs in Virginia
Fuel and insurance are key parts of the transportation budget in Virginia. The average price per gallon of regular gas is $2.97, compared with the U.S. average of $3.13.
For drivers, the average auto insurance premium (covering liability, collision and comprehensive) in Virginia is $1,055.36, versus the national average of $1,258.
Health care costs in Virginia
Health insurance and medical care are important considerations for anyone living in Virginia. The average annual employee contribution for employer-sponsored health insurance is $1,891, with employers typically covering the remaining $6,253 of the $8,144 total cost.
Nationwide, employees contribute an average of $1,640 toward a total premium of $8,182.
Utility costs in Virginia
Electricity and natural gas prices form a noticeable part of the monthly budget. The average monthly electric bill in Virginia is $141.63, compared with $136.84 nationally.
Natural gas costs in Virginia are $14.47 per thousand cubic feet, while the national average is $12.92.
FAQ
Does Virginia have a high cost of living?
No, Virginia does not have a high cost of living. Overall, expenses in the state are slightly lower than what most Americans pay. However, housing and rent are a bit more costly than the U.S. average, and families might notice energy bills are slightly higher.
Is Virginia a good place to live?
Yes, Virginia is a good place to live if you want a mix of historical towns, urban centers and natural beauty. The cost of living is only slightly lower than the national average, and many people choose to move here for the quality of life, job opportunities and strong communities.
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Is Virginia good for renters?
Yes, Virginia is good for renters. While rent is generally higher than in many other states, there is a decent range of options and the rental quality of life is rated positively. However, rental availability is limited in some areas, and tenant protections are not as strong as in certain other states. Those seeking variety and access to good schools or jobs may still find Virginia a strong fit for renting.
Article sources
ConsumerAffairs writers primarily rely on government data, industry experts and original research from other reputable publications to inform their work. Specific sources for this article include:
- Apartments.com, “Rent Trends.” Accessed Aug. 20, 2025.
- Redfin, “Redfin Data Center.” Accessed Aug. 20, 2025.
- Tax Foundation, “Where Do People Pay the Most in Property Taxes?” Accessed Aug. 20, 2025.
- United States Census Bureau, “Week 63 Household Pulse Survey: October 18 - October 30.” Accessed Aug. 20, 2025.
- AAA Gas Prices, “State Gas Price Averages.” Accessed Aug. 20, 2025.
- National Association of Insurance Commissioners, “2021/2022 Auto Insurance Database Report.” Accessed Aug. 20, 2025.
- KFF, “Average Annual Single Premium per Enrolled Employee For Employer-Based Health Insurance.” Accessed Aug. 20, 2025.
- U.S. Energy Information Administration, “2023 Average Monthly Bill- Residential.” Accessed Aug. 20, 2025.
