Cost of Living in Rocky Mount, VA

With a cost of living index of 73, Rocky Mount, VA is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 27% cheaper than the national average and 31% below the Virginia state average of 104. Rocky Mount is a small community of 4,926 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Rocky Mount's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $861 (35% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $181,400 (41% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 2.9x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Rocky Mount is $61,580, which is 18% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 17% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum. Lower incomes here are balanced by the significantly lower cost of living, stretching each dollar further.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Rocky Mount. The area sees an average annual temperature of 58.1°F, with summers averaging 76°F and winters around 40°F. Annual rainfall totals 42.8 inches spread over roughly 121 days.

Everyday prices in the Roanoke, VA (Metropolitan Statistical Area) metro area are generally below the national average. Out of 6 common items tracked by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 6 are priced lower than the US average. These real-world prices — from groceries to electricity — add up and should be factored into any cost of living comparison.

Data sources: US Census Bureau (ACS 2023), Zillow Home Values, HUD Fair Market Rents, BEA Regional Price Parities, BLS Average Prices, and NOAA Climate Normals. Updated monthly.