Cost of Living in Richmond: What Salary Do You Need to Buy a Home?

Real numbers from this area's median sale price, property taxes, and household income — calculated at today's mortgage rate.

To buy a median-priced Richmond home (around $282,500) at today's 6.58% 30-year fixed rate with 20% down, you'd need roughly $44k/year in household income to qualify — an estimated monthly payment of $1,660 (principal, interest, property tax, and insurance).

The typical Richmond household earns $77,008 — above what the median home requires. At that income, a buyer can afford roughly $508,000 with 20% down.

Down paymentMonthly paymentIncome needed
20% $1,660/mo$44,256
10% (+PMI)$1,946/mo$51,882
5% (+PMI)$2,041/mo$54,440

Estimates use a 6.58% 30-year fixed rate (current Freddie Mac average), an aggressive ~45% housing-to-income ratio (roughly what FHA underwriting can allow for a buyer with no other monthly debts — your number depends on your debts and credit), this area's median sale price and median property taxes, plus estimated insurance and PMI below 20% down. Not a commitment to lend, and not an APR — your actual rate and payment will vary.

Thinking about buying in Richmond?

Get a personalized rate and payment in minutes — or explore the full Richmond overview (schools, walkability, listings).

Get pre-approved