How your housing costs change when you relocate. Based on 2026 data with 10% down, 6.5% rate, 30-year fixed.
Your housing costs will increase by approximately $366 per month ($4,392/year) when you move from North Carolina to Virginia.
If you sell your median-priced North Carolina home ($340K) and buy in Virginia ($400K):
Your North Carolina equity covers the 20% down payment on a median Virginia home with $22K left over. That surplus can cover closing costs, moving expenses, or go into savings.
Over 10 years, this move costs you approximately $44K in housing costs alone.
Housing costs more in Virginia. The median home is 15% higher than in North Carolina — a $60K jump. You may need to adjust your expectations on square footage or location, or come with a larger down payment to keep your monthly costs manageable.
You'll save on insurance moving to Virginia: $1,700/year versus $2,300/year in North Carolina. That's $600 less per year in premiums, putting $50 back in your monthly budget.
When you buy in Virginia, expect about $6K in closing costs (1.5% of purchase price). This includes a 0.25% transfer tax. Budget for this amount on top of your down payment.
Virginia's Virginia Housing DPA Grant offers Up to 2.5% grant. If you haven't owned a home in three years (or are buying in Virginia for the first time), you may qualify. Check eligibility requirements and income limits on Virginia's housing finance agency website.