RentData

Average Rent in Staunton, VA↓ Rents falling 4.9% YoY

HUD FY2027 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 126,052

Data review: HUD FY2027Sources: HUD, Zillow, CensusMethodologyEditorial standardsReport a correction

Market Overview

Staunton, VA has rental prices ranging from $1,041/month to $1,798/month in 2027, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $1,047/month — 25% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $70,949/year, spending $1,047/month on a 1-bedroom represents 18% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.

How Staunton Compares

With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,199/month, Staunton ranks #17 most expensive of the 69 cities tracked in Virginia — pricier than 74% of all US cities in our data.

The Staunton Rental Market

The Staunton, VA area has a population of about 126,052 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 Staunton, VA have fallen by $62/month (4.9%) over the past year, from $1,261 to $1,199. This slight decline is consistent with broader market corrections seen across US rental markets.

Affordability

To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Staunton, VA without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $41,880. The local median household income of $70,949 exceeds that threshold by $29,069, making Staunton relatively accessible compared to local wages.

Rent vs. Buy

The median home value in Staunton, VA is $315,339, giving a price-to-rent ratio of 21.9. With a break-even horizon of approximately 22 years, renting is likely the more financially prudent option for most residents unless they plan to stay long-term.

Fair Market Rents

HUD FY2027
Studio
$1,041
Affordable
1 Bedroom
$1,047
Affordable
2 Bedrooms
$1,199
↓4.9% YoY
Affordable
3 Bedrooms
$1,634
Affordable
4 Bedrooms
$1,798
Average
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▼
Median Home Value
$315,339
Source: Zillow ZHVI
Est. monthly payment
$1,678/mo
20% down · 30yr · 7%

Is Staunton, 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
$47,960/year
Local median income: $70,949
To buy a median home
$67,135/year
US national median: $75,000
💡 Based on a 2BR rent of $1,199/month and 20% down on a $315,339 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 Staunton?

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

Should I Rent or Buy?

Break-even analysis using real Staunton data

$
Home Value
$315,339
2BR Rent
$1,199/mo
Mortgage Rate
7%
Monthly P&I
$1,678/mo
🏠 Buy

Buying breaks even after 1 year — worth it if you stay 1+ years.

Total monthly buy cost: $2,322/movs rent: $1,199/mo
Estimates only. Excludes HOA, PMI (if <20% down), closing costs, and tax benefits. Assumes 5% return on invested down payment.

Mortgage Calculator

Estimate monthly payment for $315,339 home at 7% rate

20% — $63,068
3%50%
Estimated Monthly Payment
$1,678
per month · 30 years · 7% APR
Loan Amount
$252,271
Total Paid
$604,212
Total Interest
$351,941
Estimated only. Excludes taxes, insurance, HOA. Rate from FRED.

Living in Staunton

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Frequently Asked Questions

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🏘️Neighborhoods in Staunton

Compare rent & home prices by neighborhood

⚖️Rent vs Buy in Staunton

Is it cheaper to rent or buy here?

💵Rent Affordability in Staunton

Salary needed to afford rent here

🗺️All Cities in VA

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⚖️Compare Staunton

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📋VA Tenant Rights

Deposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections