Amherst, VA vs Keysville, VA

Amherst, VA and Keysville, VA have a very similar cost of living, with only a 3.1% difference in their overall index. Amherst scores 70 while Keysville scores 68 on the cost of living index, where 100 represents the national average. The day-to-day expenses for residents in both cities are comparable, though differences emerge when looking at specific categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Amherst is $686/month compared to $681/month in Keysville — a 1% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Keysville is more affordable at $150,000 median vs $213,300.

Median household income in Amherst is $71,313 compared to $20,417 in Keysville (+249.3%). While Amherst is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Amherst spend roughly 11.5% of their income on rent, less than the 40% in Keysville. The Amherst ratio exceeds the commonly recommended 30% threshold, which can put pressure on household budgets.