Cost of Living in Charlottesville, VA

How far does a $70,000 salary go in Charlottesville? 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 ($1,824/month based on HUD Fair Market Rents for the Charlottesville metro area) and the estimated annual take-home is $37,563, or roughly $3,130 per month for everything else: food, transportation, savings, and discretionary spending.

The Charlottesville metro has a cost of living index of 104.6 according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis Regional Price Parities (national average = 100). This puts Charlottesville modestly above the national average on everyday expenses beyond rent.

At a $70,000 salary, the estimated 2-bedroom rent in Charlottesville represents approximately 31% of gross income. That exceeds the conventional 30% guideline, meaning housing takes a significant share of the budget at this income level.