Sterling, VA
Population 31,251 · Virginia
About Sterling, VA
Sterling is a mid-sized city in Virginia with a population of 31,251 residents. The median household income is $125,753 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Sterling is 34.8 years.
Housing in Sterling has a median home value of $508,400 and median monthly rent of $1,979. Of the 10,017 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 7,290 owner-occupied and 2,394 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Sterling is 4.7% and the poverty rate is 6.8%. 37.3% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 25.6 minutes.
How Sterling Ranks in Virginia
Cost of Living in Sterling, VA
Compared to national averages, Sterling has a median household income of $125,753 (67% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $508,400, which is 108% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,979 is 70% above the US average of $1,163. Within Virginia, Sterling's income is 43% above the state average of $87,957, and home values are 55% above the state median of $327,514.
Why Live in Sterling, VA?
Sterling offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $125,753, well above the national average, and a well-educated community where 37.3% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and a low poverty rate of 6.8%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $508,400. However, Sterling’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Sterling has a population of 31,251 with a median age of 34.8 years. Compare Sterling with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Virginia.
Similar Cities Near Sterling
Cities in Virginia with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Springfield | 30,894 | $123,691 | $622,200 | Compare |
| West Falls Church | 30,660 | $131,236 | $658,700 | Compare |
| Petersburg | 33,365 | $50,741 | $157,900 | Compare |
| Fredericksburg | 28,383 | $85,368 | $461,500 | Compare |
| South Riding | 34,200 | $190,701 | $689,400 | Compare |
| Short Pump | 28,177 | $132,194 | $543,000 | Compare |
| Tysons | 28,022 | $129,189 | $640,500 | Compare |
| Winchester | 27,981 | $64,648 | $325,900 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Virginia
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Sterling
What is the population of Sterling, VA?
The population of Sterling, VA is 31,251 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Sterling?
The median household income in Sterling, VA is $125,753 per year.
What is the median home value in Sterling?
The median home value in Sterling, VA is $508,400.
What is the average rent in Sterling?
The median monthly rent in Sterling, VA is $1,979.
What is the unemployment rate in Sterling?
The unemployment rate in Sterling, VA is 4.7%.