Smithfield, VA vs Staunton, VA

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Staunton is 20.9% cheaper than Smithfield. With a cost index of 82 vs 99, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Staunton to Smithfield should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Smithfield is $1,182/month compared to $993/month in Staunton — a 19% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Staunton is more affordable at $239,300 median vs $358,100.

Median household income in Smithfield is $110,182 compared to $62,586 in Staunton (+76%). While Smithfield is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Smithfield spend roughly 12.9% of their income on rent, less than the 19% in Staunton.

Climate-wise, both cities share similar average temperatures (59.5°F vs 58.7°F). Smithfield receives more rainfall at 45.1" per year compared to 41.6" in Staunton.