Cost of Living in Blacksburg-Christiansburg-Radford, VA

How far does a $70,000 salary go in Blacksburg-Christiansburg-Radford? Estimated income taxes on that gross salary total approximately $10,549 per year — combining federal taxes with Virginia's state income tax. Subtract rent for a 2-bedroom apartment ($1,271/month based on HUD Fair Market Rents for the Blacksburg-Christiansburg-Radford metro area) and the estimated annual take-home is $44,199, or roughly $3,683 per month for everything else: food, transportation, savings, and discretionary spending.

The Blacksburg-Christiansburg-Radford metro has a cost of living index of 67.5 according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis Regional Price Parities (national average = 100). At 33% below the national average, Blacksburg-Christiansburg-Radford is a genuinely affordable metro where everyday expenses stretch further than in most cities.

At a $70,000 salary, the estimated 2-bedroom rent in Blacksburg-Christiansburg-Radford represents approximately 22% of gross income. That falls comfortably below the 30% rent-burden guideline, a healthy position for building savings.