Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Ararat, VA
Thinking of moving to Ararat, VA? This rural community of about 1,200 residents features affordable living, with median home prices around $145,000 and average rents near $700. Enjoy a peaceful lifestyle, low crime rates (92 violent crimes per 100k), and scenic mountain weather with 62% sunny days. Commute times average 27.5 minutes, and local schools like Blue Ridge Elementary offer small class sizes. Ararat is perfect for those seeking quiet country life with access to regional amenities.
Demographics - Ararat, VA
Demographics - Ararat, VA
Ararat is a small, close-knit community of around 1,200 residents, predominantly White, with a median age of nearly 47 and a balanced gender ratio. The area has a low population density, providing a relaxed rural atmosphere, and a small percentage of non-English speakers, reflecting limited diversity.
Population:
1,200
Density:
36 per sq mi
Median Age:
46.9
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
95.1%
Black:
2.1%
Asian:
0.5%
Others:
2.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Ararat, VA?
The cost of living in Ararat is notably affordable, with median home values at $145,000 and average rents around $700. Expenses like utilities and groceries are below the national average, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious movers.
Median House Value:
$145,000
Gross Rent:
$700
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,050
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$970
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$315
State Taxes:
Low:
2.0%
|
High:
5.75%
Cost Of Living Index:
82.0
Grocery:
93.4
Housing:
62.0
Utilities:
102.6
Transportation:
91.0
Health Care:
91.5
Miscellaneous:
89.0
Crime
Is Ararat, VA a safe place to live?
Ararat maintains a low crime profile, with only 92 violent crimes per 100,000 residents and property crime risks well below many urban areas. Residents enjoy a sense of security, as the chance of being a victim of violent crime is 1 in 1,087.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
92
Property Crimes Per 100k:
812
Crime Index:
904
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,087
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 123
Weather
What is the weather like in Ararat, VA year-round?
Residents experience four distinct seasons, with mild winters averaging 27°F to 46°F and warm summers reaching up to 86°F. The area enjoys 62% sunny days and receives about 48 inches of rainfall annually, making it ideal for those who appreciate changing weather.

Winter
Min:
27°F
Max:
46°F

Spring
Min:
44°F
Max:
69°F

Summer
Min:
64°F
Max:
86°F

Fall
Min:
44°F
Max:
70°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
48.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
Households in Ararat typically have incomes around $42,500, with a median income of $33,900 and a poverty rate of 16.4%. Most residents commute about 27.5 minutes to work, and community ties are strengthened by a high owner-occupancy rate and strong local roots.
Median Income:
$33,900
Household Income:
$42,500
Family Income:
$52,000
Per Capita Income:
$23,900
Income Male:
$29,400
Income Female:
$26,800
Poverty Rate:
16.4%
Non English Speakers:
3.5%
Rent:
$700
Unemployment Rate:
4.7%
Public Transport Usage:
0.3%
Commute Time:
27.5 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
84.8%
Bachelors or More:
14.2%
Education
How are the schools in Ararat, VA?
Local public schools like Blue Ridge Elementary offer small class sizes and a supportive learning environment, while higher education is available nearby at Surry Community College. The community values education, with a high school graduation rate above 80%.

Public Schools
Name:
Blue Ridge Elementary School
Street:
191 Blue Ridge Elementary Rd
Phone:
276-694-3447
Students:
350
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.5

Colleges
Name:
Surry Community College
City:
Dobson
State:
NC
Distance:
16 miles
Students:
3,000
Healthcare
Ararat has access to quality healthcare with nearby facilities such as Northern Regional Hospital, and about 90% of residents have health insurance coverage. While there are fewer physicians per capita, essential medical and emergency services are accessible within a short drive.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Northern Regional Hospital
Address:
830 Rockford St, Mt Airy, NC 27030
Phone:
(336) 719-7000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
90.4%
Health Care Index:
72.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Ararat, VA?
The housing market is stable and affordable, with a median home price of $145,000 and 77% owner occupancy. Home values have experienced modest appreciation, and rental options remain available with a reasonable vacancy rate.
Median Home Price:
$145,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$700
Owner Occupied Rate:
77.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
DMV services for Ararat residents are managed by the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, with resources available online or at the main office in Richmond. Residents can access licensing, registration, and driving information conveniently through state channels.
State:
Virginia
Department:
Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
2300 W Broad St, Richmond, VA 23220
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.