If you’re thinking about moving to Virginia or just want to see if your paycheck will stretch, you’re in the right place. Below you’ll get a real‑world look at what you’ll actually spend on the things that matter most.
Housing is the biggest chunk of any budget. In 2025 the median rent for a one‑bedroom apartment in Richmond hovers around $1,300, while a similar place in a smaller town like Charlottesville can drop to $950. Buying a home is still cheaper per square foot than many coastal markets, but you’ll still need $250‑$350 per month for property taxes and $150‑$200 for utilities (electricity, water, gas). If you’re sharing a house with roommates, split the rent and utilities – that can bring your share down to $600‑$800.
Food costs in Virginia sit close to the national average. A grocery bill for a single adult runs $250‑$350 a month if you shop at supermarkets and use weekly sales. Eating out is cheaper in smaller towns – a meal at a casual restaurant costs $12‑$15, while in bigger cities you’ll pay $18‑$22.
Transportation depends on where you live. A monthly pass for Charlottesville’s bus system is $55, while the Virginia Railway Express (VRE) to D.C. costs $100‑$120. If you drive, expect to pay $2.50‑$3.00 per gallon for gas and $1.15 per mile for insurance and maintenance combined.
Virginia’s state income tax ranges from 2% to 5.75% depending on your earnings, plus a sales tax of 5.3% (plus local add‑ons in some counties). Health insurance premiums average $350 for an individual plan, but many employers cover a good portion.
Putting it all together, a single professional earning $60,000 a year will likely have $1,800‑$2,200 left each month after housing, utilities, food, transport, taxes and insurance. That leftover can cover savings, entertainment, or a bit of travel.
Bottom line: Virginia offers a mix of affordable small‑town living and pricier city life. Know your priorities, compare rent vs. buying, and track the big categories above to see if your budget works. With the right plan, you can enjoy Virginia’s four‑season climate without breaking the bank.
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