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Cost of Living in Fairfax City

Is it better to rent or buy in Fairfax City? Explore median costs, utility estimates, and run the numbers on your own budget to see how far your income goes.

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Rent vs. Buy Affordability Calculator

Adjust the sliders to match your scenario. We recommend keeping total housing costs under 40% of your gross income.

$139,823
$2,198/mo

Median in area: $2,198

$723,441

Median in area: $723,441

$144,688

If you Rent

🔑
$2,374 /mo
Base Rent$2,198
Est. Utilities$176
% of Income20.4%
Pre-tax Residual$9,278

If you Buy

🏠
$4,665 /mo
P&I (6.802%)$3,774
Taxes & Ins$715
Est. Utilities$176
% of Income40.0%
Pre-tax Residual$6,987

Compare Nearby Areas

See how Fairfax City stacks up against neighboring areas.

countyFairfax County, VA
$2,516/mo

Cost of Living FAQs

Is it cheaper to rent or buy in Fairfax City?›

Based on median housing data, renting is currently more affordable on a monthly basis in Fairfax City. The estimated all-in monthly cost for renting is $2,374, while owning a median-priced home with a 20% down payment is roughly $4,665 per month (a difference of $2,291).

How much do utilities cost in Fairfax City?›

The average monthly utility cost (electricity and natural gas) for a typical home in Fairfax City is approximately $176. This estimate uses local utility rate schedules combined with median energy consumption profiles.

What is a good salary to live comfortably in Fairfax City?›

To comfortably afford the median rent and utilities in Fairfax City without exceeding the recommended 30% housing-to-income threshold, a household should earn a gross salary of approximately $94,960 per year.