Fredericksburg, VA vs George Mason, VA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Fredericksburg is 26.7% cheaper than George Mason. With a cost index of 122 vs 167, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Fredericksburg to George Mason should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Fredericksburg is $1,521/month compared to $2,377/month in George Mason — a 36% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Fredericksburg is more affordable at $461,500 median vs $687,800.

Median household income in Fredericksburg is $85,368 compared to $154,479 in George Mason (-44.7%). While George Mason is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Fredericksburg spend roughly 21.4% of their income on rent, more than the 18.5% in George Mason.