Ashburn, VA vs Sterling, VA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Sterling is 17.9% cheaper than Ashburn. With a cost index of 140 vs 165, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Sterling to Ashburn should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Ashburn is $2,397/month compared to $1,979/month in Sterling — a 21% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Sterling is more affordable at $508,400 median vs $659,000.

Median household income in Ashburn is $152,094 compared to $125,753 in Sterling (+20.9%). While Ashburn is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Ashburn spend roughly 18.9% of their income on rent, less than the 18.9% in Sterling.