Dahlgren, VA vs George Mason, VA

The cost of living difference between Dahlgren, VA and George Mason, VA is dramatic. Dahlgren is 36.7% cheaper than George Mason, a gap that translates to thousands of dollars per year in household expenses. Dahlgren has a cost index of 106 while George Mason sits at 167, making this one of the more striking comparisons on our site. Relocating between these cities would require a serious reassessment of budget and lifestyle expectations.

On the housing front, median rent in Dahlgren is $1,291/month compared to $2,377/month in George Mason — a 46% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Dahlgren is more affordable at $383,400 median vs $687,800.

Median household income in Dahlgren is $106,071 compared to $154,479 in George Mason (-31.3%). The higher salaries in George Mason partially offset the cost difference, but don't fully close the gap. Looking at affordability, residents of Dahlgren spend roughly 14.6% of their income on rent, less than the 18.5% in George Mason.