Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Amherst, VA
Considering a move to Amherst, VA? This small, welcoming town of 2,184 residents offers affordable living, with median home prices at $187,000 and average rents around $850. Enjoy a relaxed pace with low crime rates (violent crime at 124 per 100k), a 23-minute average commute, and 61% sunny days each year. Amherst features access to good local schools, proximity to Sweet Briar College, and a mild climate—making it a great choice for those seeking a friendly, budget-friendly community.
Demographics - Amherst, VA
Demographics - Amherst, VA
Amherst is a close-knit community of 2,184 residents, with a median age of 45.3 and a balanced gender ratio. The town is predominantly White (68%) and Black (27%), with a small percentage of non-English speakers, reflecting a moderately diverse population. Its population density of 830 people per square mile offers a small-town feel while maintaining access to essential amenities.
Population:
2,184
Density:
830 per sq mi
Median Age:
45.3
Gender Ratio:
87 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
68.0%
Black:
27.0%
Asian:
1.0%
Others:
4.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Amherst, VA?
Living in Amherst is budget-friendly, with a cost of living index of 82.5—well below the national average. Median home values are around $187,000, and typical rents hover at $850, making housing particularly affordable. Residents also benefit from reasonable utility and grocery costs, supporting a comfortable lifestyle for families and individuals alike.
Median House Value:
$187,000
Gross Rent:
$850
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$140
Auto Insurance:
$1,150
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,240
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$410
State Taxes:
Low:
2.0%
|
High:
5.75%
Cost Of Living Index:
82.5
Grocery:
95.0
Housing:
56.0
Utilities:
102.0
Transportation:
89.0
Health Care:
96.5
Miscellaneous:
93.0
Crime
Is Amherst, VA a safe place to live?
Amherst enjoys a relatively low crime rate, with just 124 violent crimes and 1,020 property crimes per 100,000 residents. The chance of experiencing violent crime is 1 in 806, making it a safe choice for families and retirees. Residents can expect a peaceful environment with minimal safety concerns compared to many communities.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
124
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,020
Crime Index:
1,144
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 806
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 98
Weather
What is the weather like in Amherst, VA year-round?
Amherst experiences four distinct seasons, featuring mild winters with average lows of 27°F and warm summers peaking at 87°F. The area receives about 44 inches of annual rainfall and boasts 61% sunny days, perfect for enjoying outdoor activities. Seasonal changes bring colorful scenery and a comfortable climate year-round.
Winter
Min:
27°F
Max:
45°F
Spring
Min:
44°F
Max:
70°F
Summer
Min:
63°F
Max:
87°F
Fall
Min:
46°F
Max:
71°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
43.8 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
61%
Neighbors
Amherst’s residents enjoy a median household income of $45,200 and a strong sense of community, though the poverty rate stands at 17.6%. Most neighbors have a high school education or higher, and the average commute is a manageable 23 minutes. The town’s small size and low public transport usage foster a friendly, neighborly atmosphere.
Median Income:
$31,800
Household Income:
$45,200
Family Income:
$54,100
Per Capita Income:
$23,500
Income Male:
$35,200
Income Female:
$28,700
Poverty Rate:
17.6%
Non English Speakers:
3.2%
Rent:
$850
Unemployment Rate:
4.1%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
23.1 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
84.5%
Bachelors or More:
19.2%
Education
How are the schools in Amherst, VA?
Education in Amherst is supported by well-rated public schools, including Amherst County High School and Amherst Middle School, with favorable student-teacher ratios. Private education is available through Amherst Christian Academy, and higher education opportunities are close by at Sweet Briar College and Liberty University. Families benefit from a variety of schooling options within and near the town.
Public Schools
Name:
Amherst County High School
Street:
139 Lancer Ln
Phone:
434-946-2898
Students:
1,300
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.8
Name:
Amherst Middle School
Street:
165 Gordons Fairground Rd
Phone:
434-946-0691
Students:
600
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.6
Private Schools
Name:
Amherst Christian Academy
Street:
120 Falcon Dr
Phone:
434-946-5291
Students:
120
Colleges
Name:
Sweet Briar College
City:
Sweet Briar
State:
VA
Distance:
5 miles
Students:
350
Name:
Liberty University
City:
Lynchburg
State:
VA
Distance:
15 miles
Students:
15,000
Healthcare
Access to healthcare in Amherst is strong, with facilities like Centra Amherst Medical Center and emergency services available nearby in Lynchburg. There are 1.7 physicians per 1,000 residents, and over 91% of the population has health insurance. The community benefits from reliable primary and urgent care options within a short drive.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Centra Amherst Medical Center
Address:
210 Ambriar Plaza, Amherst, VA 24521
Phone:
(434) 946-9565
Type:
Primary & Urgent Care
Emergency Services:
No
Name:
Centra Lynchburg General Hospital
Address:
1901 Tate Springs Rd, Lynchburg, VA 24501
Phone:
(434) 200-3000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.5%
Health Care Index:
72.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Amherst, VA?
Amherst’s housing market is attractive for buyers, with a median home price of $187,000 and an owner-occupied rate nearing 60%. Rental options are available at an average of $850 for a two-bedroom, and the area sees stable home appreciation and low foreclosure rates. This makes Amherst ideal for both homeowners and renters seeking affordability and stability.
Median Home Price:
$187,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$850
Owner Occupied Rate:
59.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.9%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.6%
New Construction Rate:
0.9%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Residents of Amherst can access motor vehicle services through the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, with the main office located in Richmond and online support available. The DMV provides essential services such as licensing and registration for Virginia drivers. Convenient resources ensure residents’ transportation needs are easily managed.
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.