Average Rent in Highland County, VA↑ Rents rising 3.2% YoY🔻 7th cheapest in VA
HUD FY2027 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 2,265
Market Overview
Highland County, VA has rental prices ranging from $775/month to $1,460/month in 2027, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $779/month — 44% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $62,946/year, spending $779/month on a 1-bedroom represents 15% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Highland County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $943/month, Highland County ranks #63 most expensive of the 69 cities tracked in Virginia — more affordable than 83% of all US cities in our data.
The Highland County Rental Market
The Highland County, VA area has a population of about 2,265 and 12% of households renting rather than owning. That renter share runs below the US average of ~34%, a more homeowner-heavy market where rental inventory can be limited.
Rent Trends
2-bedroom rents in Highland County, VA have risen by $29/month (3.2%) over the past year, from $914 to $943. This modest growth is consistent with broader inflationary trends seen across US rental markets.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Highland County, VA without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $31,160. The local median household income of $62,946 exceeds that threshold by $31,786, making Highland County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Highland County, VA has an unemployment rate of 3.1%, 0.8 percentage points below the national average of 3.9%. Strong employment conditions typically sustain rental demand, as workers relocate to the area and local residents maintain stable housing.
Fair Market Rents
HUD FY2027Is Highland County, VA Affordable?
Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.
Affordability Index(30% income rule)
Nearby Cities in VAlargest metros in the state
| City | Studio | 1BR | 2BR | 3BR | Home Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Madison County | $907 | $913 | $1,096 | $1,361 | — |
| Warren County | $1,063 | $1,108 | $1,449 | $1,930 | — |
| King and Queen County | $1,032 | $1,075 | $1,170 | $1,435 | — |
| Richmond | $1,456 | $1,517 | $1,651 | $2,039 | — |
| Roanoke | $1,186 | $1,250 | $1,464 | $2,022 | — |
| Lynchburg | $965 | $971 | $1,117 | $1,547 | — |
Rent or Buy in Highland County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Highland County data
Buying breaks even after 5 years — worth it if you stay 5+ years.
Living in Highland County
Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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💵Rent Affordability in Highland CountySalary needed to afford rent here
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📋VA Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections