Average Rent in Smyth County, VA↓ Rents falling 6.0% YoY🔻 7th cheapest in VA
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 29,585
Market Overview
Smyth County, VA has rental prices ranging from $584/month to $1,383/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $722/month — 48% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $46,859/year, spending $722/month on a 1-bedroom represents 18% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Smyth County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $851/month, Smyth County ranks #62 most expensive of the 68 cities tracked in Virginia — more affordable than 92% 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 fallen by $54/month (6.0%) over the past year, from $905 to $851. This slight decline is consistent with broader market corrections 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 $28,880. The local median household income of $46,859 exceeds that threshold by $17,979, making Smyth County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Smyth County, VA has an unemployment rate of 4.5%, 0.6 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 FY2025Is 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)
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 | $983 | $989 | $1,298 | $1,744 | — |
| King and Queen County | $1,152 | $1,197 | $1,325 | $1,645 | — |
| Richmond | $1,488 | $1,545 | $1,711 | $2,166 | — |
| Roanoke | $892 | $948 | $1,141 | $1,597 | — |
| Lynchburg | $1,043 | $1,062 | $1,200 | $1,647 | — |
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
Renting appears to be the better financial choice for this scenario.
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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💵Rent Affordability in Smyth CountySalary needed to afford rent here
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