Falls Church is considered moderately priced in 2025, with average rent for a 2-bedroom apartment at $1,750 and overall costs slightly above the national average due to higher housing and grocery expenses.
In 2025, the typical monthly budget for a couple in Falls Church, VA is around $4,500 before taxes. This reflects the city’s position as a moderately priced suburb of Washington D.C. with housing costs and taxes somewhat higher than the U.S. average.
Housing Costs in Falls Church
Housing is the biggest factor in the cost of living in Falls Church. In 2025, the median rent for a 2-bedroom apartment is $1,750 per month. Buying a home is also pricey, with the typical 3-bedroom single-family house valued at $725,000.
Prices vary by neighborhood, with areas closer to D.C. and the East Falls Church Metro station commanding a premium. Here’s a breakdown of typical housing costs:
| Neighborhood | 2BR Rent | 3BR Home Price |
|---|---|---|
| Broadmont | $1,900 | $800,000 |
| Greenway Downs | $1,650 | $700,000 |
| Hillwood | $1,800 | $750,000 |
Most homes in Falls Church are part of a homeowners association (HOA) which adds $200-400 per month in fees to cover shared amenities and maintenance. Renters should budget for application fees and security deposits equal to 1-2 months’ rent.
Utility Costs in Falls Church
Utilities are another significant expense, averaging $180 per month for a typical 1,000 square foot apartment in Falls Church. Expect to pay more in the summer due to air conditioning needs. Here’s a sample utility breakdown:
| Utility | Avg Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Electricity | $90 |
| Natural Gas | $40 |
| Water/Sewer | $50 |
| Trash/Recycling | $20 |
Internet and cable packages start around $80/month. Many homes rely on natural gas for heating, which can lead to higher bills in the winter months.
Grocery and Food Costs
Groceries for two adults in Falls Church typically run $600-800 per month, about 10% higher than the national average. Here’s what a typical grocery basket might cost:
| Item | Quantity | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Milk | 1 gallon | $3.80 |
| Eggs | 1 dozen | $2.50 |
| Bread | 1 loaf | $2.75 |
| Chicken Breast | 1 lb | $4.50 |
| Ground Beef | 1 lb | $5.25 |
| Rice | 1 lb | $1.60 |
| Apples | 1 lb | $2.20 |
| Coffee | 1 lb | $8.00 |
Dining out is also pricey, with a basic meal at a casual restaurant averaging $18-25 per person. Upscale establishments and trendy D.C. hotspots are even more expensive.
Taxes in Falls Church
Falls Church has a property tax rate of $1.355 per $100 of assessed value, among the highest in Virginia. For a home valued at $725,000, annual property taxes would be $9,824. The sales tax rate is 6%, combining the 4.3% state rate and 1.7% local rate.
Other common taxes and fees include:
- Vehicle property tax: 5% of assessed value annually
- Vehicle registration: $40.75 for a standard passenger vehicle
- Dog licenses: $10 annually
- Parking permits: $30-50 annually in some neighborhoods
Monthly Budget Summary
Taking all these costs into account, here are some sample monthly budgets for different household types in Falls Church:
| Expense | Single Adult | Couple | Family of 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing (Rent/Mortgage) | $1,500 | $1,750 | $2,500 |
| Utilities | $120 | $180 | $280 |
| Groceries | $400 | $700 | $1,100 |
| Transportation | $200 | $300 | $500 |
| Taxes/Fees | $300 | $600 | $1,000 |
| Miscellaneous | $400 | $600 | $1,000 |
| Total Gross Monthly Income Needed | $2,920 | $4,130 | $6,380 |
Methodology: These 2025 estimates for Falls Church draw on publicly available national and regional sources including the U.S. Census Bureau, Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA), Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), and Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED). Where city-specific figures are unavailable, safe regional ranges are applied (e.g., typical 2BR rents, grocery costs per adult). All amounts are expressed as gross monthly income (pre-tax) and rounded to whole dollars. Actual expenses vary by household size, lifestyle, and neighborhood choice.
Lifestyle Factors to Consider
While more expensive than farther-flung suburbs, Falls Church offers a high quality of life with great schools, low crime, ample parks, and a quaint downtown. Its proximity to D.C. is a major draw for commuters. Over 30% of residents take public transit to work, utilizing the East Falls Church Metro station and numerous bus lines.
Housing costs are the biggest tradeoff. Choosing an apartment or smaller home can make Falls Church more affordable compared to larger properties. Many residents also save by relying on public transit instead of owning a car.
Other perks of Falls Church living include seasonal festivals, a weekly farmers market, and a thriving restaurant scene with diverse international cuisines. Its small size fosters a strong sense of community and walkability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Falls Church more affordable than Washington D.C. in 2025?
While Falls Church is less expensive than D.C. proper, it still has a relatively high cost of living compared to other parts of Virginia and the U.S. Housing costs in particular are above average.
What is a realistic monthly budget for living in Falls Church?
For a single person, a gross monthly income of at least $2,900 is recommended to live comfortably in Falls Church. Couples should aim for $4,100 per month and families around $6,400. The more you can budget for housing, the easier it is to manage other costs.
Do utilities cost more in Falls Church than nearby areas?
Utility costs in Falls Church are fairly typical for the D.C. metro area. Expect to pay around $120-180 per month for an apartment and $200-300 for a single-family home, with seasonal spikes for heating and cooling.
How much does a family of four spend on groceries in Falls Church per month?
A family of four should budget at least $1,100 per month for groceries in Falls Church, not including dining out. This factors in the city’s slightly higher than average food costs.
Are property taxes higher in Falls Church than neighboring cities?
Falls Church has one of the highest property tax rates in the region at $1.355 per $100 of assessed value. This is notably higher than in Arlington ($1.013) or Fairfax County ($1.14). However, the city’s small size means home values are often lower than in closer-in D.C. suburbs.