RentData

Average Rent in Smyth County, VA↑ Rents rising 3.2% YoY🔻 7th cheapest in VA

HUD FY2027 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 29,585

Data review: HUD FY2027Sources: HUD, Zillow, Census, BLSMethodologyEditorial standardsReport a correction

Market Overview

Smyth County, VA has rental prices ranging from $710/month to $1,460/month in 2027, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $741/month — 47% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $46,859/year, spending $741/month on a 1-bedroom represents 19% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.

How Smyth County Compares

With an average 2-bedroom rent of $943/month, Smyth County ranks #63 most expensive of the 69 cities tracked in Virginia — more affordable than 83% of all US cities in our data.

The Smyth County Rental Market

The Smyth County, VA area has a population of about 29,585 and 29% 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 Smyth 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 Smyth County, VA without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $29,640. The local median household income of $46,859 exceeds that threshold by $17,219, making Smyth County relatively accessible compared to local wages.

Economy & Jobs

Smyth County, VA has an unemployment rate of 4.6%, 0.7 percentage points above the national average of 3.9%. A higher unemployment rate can moderate rental demand over time, which may help keep rent growth in check compared to tighter job markets.

Fair Market Rents

HUD FY2027
Studio
$710
Affordable
1 Bedroom
$741
Affordable
2 Bedrooms
$943
↑3.2% YoY
Affordable
3 Bedrooms
$1,171
Affordable
4 Bedrooms
$1,460
Average
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Is Smyth County, VA Affordable?

Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.

Affordability Index(30% income rule)

To rent a 2BR
$37,720/year
Local median income: $46,859
To buy a median home
—/year
US national median: $75,000
💡 Based on a 2BR rent of $943/month and 20% down on a — home at 7% rate.

Nearby Cities in VAlargest metros in the state

CityStudio1BR2BR3BRHome 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 Smyth County?

Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.

Should I Rent or Buy?

Break-even analysis using real Smyth County data

$
Home Value
$350,000
2BR Rent
$943/mo
Mortgage Rate
7%
Monthly P&I
$1,863/mo
🏠 Buy

Buying breaks even after 5 years — worth it if you stay 5+ years.

Total monthly buy cost: $2,577/movs rent: $943/mo
Estimates only. Excludes HOA, PMI (if <20% down), closing costs, and tax benefits. Assumes 5% return on invested down payment.

Living in Smyth County

Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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🏘️Neighborhoods in Smyth County

Compare rent & home prices by neighborhood

💵Rent Affordability in Smyth County

Salary needed to afford rent here

🗺️All Cities in VA

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⚖️Compare Smyth County

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📋VA Tenant Rights

Deposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections