Cost of Living in Hampton, VA
Hampton cost of living index: 81.18 (below the US average). Median home price: $307,500.
Updated 2026 • Based on 7 local zip codes
📍 Some data sourced from nearby metro area
% below the national average
Housing
Data from 7 zip codes
Housing costs in Hampton, VA based on real market data from 7 local zip codes.
In Hampton, VA, the housing index of 67.9 indicates a moderately priced real estate market potentially higher than the national average. With a median home price of 307500.0, entering homeownership may require significant financial commitment. Conversely, renting remains attractive, particularly for a 2-bedroom apartment averaging 1335.0 and a house at . Basing your decision on your long-term plans and lifestyle preferences will be crucial, as the balance between renting and buying can significantly impact your financial future in this evolving market.
Last updated: January 2026
Utilities
The cost of utilities such as electricity, natural gas, and other services can significantly impact the overall cost of living.
Living in Hampton, VA could entail variable utility costs. Electricity costs sit at $15.31, while natural gas is priced at $19.91 per Thousand Cubic Feet. Expect to budget about $77.8 monthly for other services like water and garbage.
Cost Breakdown by Category
Local Income & Economy in Hampton, VA
How far does your money go in Hampton? Understanding the relationship between income and cost of living is key to evaluating affordability.
How We Calculate Adjusted Purchasing Power in Hampton
The adjusted purchasing power shows what a Hampton, VA household income is actually worth after accounting for local prices. We calculate it using the formula: Purchasing Power = Median Income ÷ Cost of Living Index × 100
For Hampton, that's $64,430 ÷ 81.18 × 100 = $79,367. This means a household earning the median income in Hampton has the equivalent buying power of $79,367 in a city where the cost of living index equals the national baseline of 100.
Hampton is well below the national cost of living average at 81.18, making it one of the more affordable places to live in VA. The median income of $64,430 has an effective purchasing power of $79,367 — a meaningful boost that allows residents to save more, invest in real estate, or enjoy a higher standard of living compared to expensive metro areas.
Combined with a low poverty rate of 12% and healthy job market (3.7% unemployment), Hampton offers strong value for families, investors, and anyone looking to relocate to a city where income goes further.
💡 Purchasing power is calculated by dividing the local median household income by the cost of living index and multiplying by 100. A result higher than the nominal income means your money goes further; a lower result means local prices erode your earnings. The US baseline cost of living index is 100.
Pros & Cons of Living in Hampton
Pros
- • Friendly community vibes
- • Decent local restaurants
- • Variety of kids' activities
- • Active volunteer organizations
- • Rich historical sites nearby
- • Affordable housing options
- • Good waterfront access
- • Growing job market in tech
- • Proximity to military jobs
- • Strong support for local arts
Cons
- • Public transport needs improvement
- • Limited diversity in some neighborhoods
- • Potential for racial tension
- • Higher crime rates reported
- • Limited nightlife options
- • Schools vary in quality
- • Traffic congestion during peak hours
- • Flooding risk in coastal areas
- • Weather can be very humid
- • Some areas face economic decline
💡City Insights
Hampton scores 8/10 for affordability, 5/10 for safety, and 5/10 for family-friendliness — an good overall profile. Its strongest aspect is affordability, making it particularly suitable for budget-conscious buyers. This balanced profile makes Hampton worth considering for various lifestyle priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Hampton, VA? ▼
The cost of living in Hampton, VA is 19% lower than the national average, with a cost of living index of 81 (where 100 represents the U.S. average). Housing typically accounts for the largest portion of living expenses. See full cost of living breakdown →
How much does it cost to buy or rent a home in Hampton, VA? ▼
In Hampton, VA, The median home price is $307,500. requiring approximately $108,750 annual income to afford. Average rent is $1,335/month (requiring ~$53,400/year income). The local median household income is $64,430, making homeownership attainable for typical residents. Explore Hampton real estate data →
Is Hampton, VA a safe place to live? ▼
Hampton, VA is average in terms of safety, with crime rates near the national average. Safety varies significantly by neighborhood. View detailed Hampton crime statistics →
What salary do you need to live comfortably in Hampton, VA? ▼
To live comfortably in Hampton, VA and afford a median-priced home of $307,500, you would typically need a household income of $76,875 to $96,094 per year. The local median household income is $64,430. Renting requires approximately $53,400/year (at $1,335/month). See full affordability analysis →
What are the best neighborhoods in Hampton, VA? ▼
The best neighborhoods in Hampton, VA depend on your priorities. For families, look for areas near top-rated schools with lower crime rates. For affordability, neighborhoods throughout the city offer good value since the median home price of $307,500 is below the national average.
How are the taxes in Hampton, VA? ▼
Tax rates in Hampton, VA include state and local components. The cost of living index of 81 suggests a lower overall tax and expense burden cost environment compared to the national average. View detailed Hampton tax information →
How does Hampton, VA compare to nearby cities? ▼
Hampton, VA offers a more affordable alternative to nearby communities. With a cost of living index of 81, median home prices of $307,500, and a crime rate of 0 per 1,000 residents, you can compare these metrics side-by-side. Use the compare feature to evaluate specific cities.
What is the weather like in Hampton, VA? ▼
Weather in Hampton, VA varies by season. Climate data varies by season. View detailed Hampton climate & environment data →
What factors affect cost of living in Hampton, VA? ▼
The main factors affecting cost of living in Hampton, VA include housing costs (the biggest factor), utilities, groceries, transportation, and healthcare. Local taxes and the overall economic conditions also play a role.
Housing Costs by Zip Code
Detailed housing data across 7 zip codes in Hampton, VA.
| Zip Code | Median Home Price | Avg Rent | 2BR Rent | For Sale | For Rent |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 23651 | — | — | — | — | — |
| 23661 | $274,000 | $1,692/mo | $1,550/mo | 52 | 25 |
| 23663 | $239,900 | $1,771/mo | $1,175/mo | 45 | 19 |
| 23664 | $499,000 | $2,278/mo | $1,150/mo | 85 | 16 |
| 23665 | — | — | — | — | — |
| 23666 | $307,500 | $1,825/mo | $1,650/mo | 116 | 67 |
| 23669 | $314,900 | $1,825/mo | $1,150/mo | 117 | 59 |
Explore More About Hampton, VA
📅 Last Updated: January 2026
Sources: U.S. Census Bureau (ACS), Bureau of Labor Statistics, Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER), Zillow, Redfin