Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Alum Ridge, VA
Thinking of moving to Alum Ridge, VA? This small rural community of about 1,200 offers affordable living with a median home price around $185,000 and average rent near $850. Crime rates are impressively low, and residents enjoy a peaceful lifestyle amidst scenic mountain surroundings. Commute times average about 30 minutes, schools are well-rated, and the area boasts a comfortable climate with 60% sunny days annually. Alum Ridge is perfect for those seeking tranquility, value, and a close-knit atmosphere.
Demographics - Alum Ridge, VA
Demographics - Alum Ridge, VA
Alum Ridge is a small, close-knit community of about 1,200 residents, with a median age of 46 and a predominantly White population. The gender balance is nearly even, and the area is known for its friendly, rural atmosphere. With a low percentage of non-English speakers, newcomers will find it easy to integrate and connect with neighbors.
Population:
1,200
Density:
60 per sq mi
Median Age:
46.0
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
94.0%
Black:
2.0%
Asian:
0.5%
Others:
3.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Alum Ridge, VA?
Living in Alum Ridge is highly affordable, with a median home value of $185,000 and average rent at $850 per month. The overall cost of living index is 87.1, meaning everyday expenses such as housing, groceries, and utilities are lower than the national average. Residents benefit from modest state taxes and reasonable homeownership costs, making it ideal for budget-conscious movers.
Median House Value:
$185,000
Gross Rent:
$850
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,110
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,120
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$430
State Taxes:
Low:
2.0%
|
High:
5.75%
Cost Of Living Index:
87.1
Grocery:
95.0
Housing:
72.0
Utilities:
95.0
Transportation:
88.0
Health Care:
92.0
Miscellaneous:
90.0
Crime
Is Alum Ridge, VA a safe place to live?
Alum Ridge boasts very low crime rates, with just 52 violent crimes and 780 property crimes per 100,000 people annually. The chance of being a victim of violent crime is 1 in 1,923, making it a safe community for families and individuals alike. Residents enjoy peace of mind thanks to the secure, tranquil environment.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
52
Property Crimes Per 100k:
780
Crime Index:
832
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,923
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 128
Weather
What is the weather like in Alum Ridge, VA year-round?
Residents experience a comfortable climate with mild winters averaging lows of 23°F and pleasant summers reaching highs of 84°F. The area receives about 43 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys 60% sunny days, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. Seasonal changes are distinct, allowing for both vibrant springs and crisp autumns.
Winter
Min:
23°F
Max:
42°F
Spring
Min:
42°F
Max:
69°F
Summer
Min:
61°F
Max:
84°F
Fall
Min:
43°F
Max:
70°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
43.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
60%
Neighbors
The typical household income in Alum Ridge is around $54,000, with a family income of $61,000 and a per capita income of $26,000. Most neighbors are high school graduates, and the poverty rate sits at 13.7%. Residents appreciate the small-town feel, low unemployment, and a manageable average commute of just under 30 minutes.
Median Income:
$33,000
Household Income:
$54,000
Family Income:
$61,000
Per Capita Income:
$26,000
Income Male:
$36,000
Income Female:
$31,000
Poverty Rate:
13.7%
Non English Speakers:
2.5%
Rent:
$850
Unemployment Rate:
4.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
29.5 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
87.0%
Bachelors or More:
18.2%
Education
How are the schools in Alum Ridge, VA?
Alum Ridge is served by well-regarded public schools such as Floyd County High School and Check Elementary, both offering favorable student-teacher ratios. Families have access to higher education nearby at Radford University (19 miles away) and Virginia Tech (28 miles away), broadening educational opportunities. The area emphasizes strong academic support within a small-town setting.
Public Schools
Name:
Floyd County High School
Street:
721 Baker St
Phone:
540-745-9450
Students:
650
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.5
Name:
Check Elementary School
Street:
6810 Floyd Hwy N
Phone:
540-745-9420
Students:
300
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.7
Colleges
Name:
Radford University
City:
Radford
State:
VA
Distance:
19 miles
Students:
7,700
Name:
Virginia Tech
City:
Blacksburg
State:
VA
Distance:
28 miles
Students:
37,000
Healthcare
Access to healthcare is strong, with over 91% of residents insured and the Carilion New River Valley Medical Center nearby for emergency and general care. Alum Ridge offers a physician rate of 1.7 per 1,000 people, supporting basic medical needs. Overall, healthcare is reliable and conveniently located within a short drive.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Carilion New River Valley Medical Center
Address:
2900 Lamb Circle, Christiansburg, VA 24073
Phone:
(540) 731-2000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.2%
Health Care Index:
68.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Alum Ridge, VA?
The housing market in Alum Ridge is attractive for buyers, with a median home price of $185,000 and a high owner-occupied rate of over 80%. Rental options are available with average two-bedroom rents at $850, and home values have appreciated by 4.2% in the past year. Low foreclosure and vacancy rates point to a stable, welcoming market for newcomers.
Median Home Price:
$185,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$850
Owner Occupied Rate:
80.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Vehicle services for Alum Ridge residents are managed by the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, headquartered in Richmond. The DMV provides accessible licensing, registration, and other services both online and in-person. New residents can find up-to-date information and resources at the official state website.
State:
Virginia
Department:
Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
2300 W Broad St, Richmond, VA 23269
Phone:
1-804-497-7100
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.