Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Bedford, VA
Considering a move to Bedford, VA? This charming town of 6,564 residents offers a relaxed pace with affordable housing—median home prices at $218,000 and two-bedroom rents averaging $925. Bedford enjoys a low cost of living (index 84.2), a reasonable average commute of 22.5 minutes, and plenty of sunny days (61% yearly). Crime rates are relatively low, and families will find solid schools plus access to local hospitals. With scenic mountain surroundings, a mild climate, and friendly community spirit, Bedford is a great choice for those seeking small-town life with modern conveniences.
Demographics - Bedford, VA
Demographics - Bedford, VA
Bedford is a small community of 6,564 residents with a median age of 45, reflecting a balanced mix of families and retirees. The population is primarily White (76.5%), with Black residents making up nearly one-fifth, and a modest share of non-English speakers. The town's density offers a close-knit feel without being crowded.
Population:
6,564
Density:
1,200 per sq mi
Median Age:
45.2
Gender Ratio:
92 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
76.5%
Black:
18.5%
Asian:
1.0%
Others:
4.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Bedford, VA?
Bedford stands out for its affordable cost of living, with a median home value of $218,000 and average rent at $925 for a two-bedroom apartment. The cost of living index of 84.2 is well below the national average, making everyday expenses—including groceries, utilities, and transportation—particularly manageable for newcomers.
Median House Value:
$218,000
Gross Rent:
$925
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$135
Auto Insurance:
$1,110
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,270
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$415
State Taxes:
Low:
2.0%
|
High:
5.75%
Cost Of Living Index:
84.2
Grocery:
93.1
Housing:
69.4
Utilities:
97.4
Transportation:
86.5
Health Care:
95.3
Miscellaneous:
90.2
Crime
Is Bedford, VA a safe place to live?
Bedford enjoys a relatively low crime rate, with only 180 violent crimes per 100,000 residents and a 1 in 555 chance of experiencing such an incident. Property crime is more common, but still below many urban areas, helping to provide peace of mind for families and individuals alike.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
180
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,620
Crime Index:
1,800
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 555
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 62
Weather
What is the weather like in Bedford, VA year-round?
Residents experience four distinct seasons in Bedford, with mild winters averaging lows of 25°F and warm summers reaching up to 87°F. The area receives about 44 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys over 60% sunny days, making it ideal for outdoor activities year-round.
Winter
Min:
25°F
Max:
46°F
Spring
Min:
44°F
Max:
70°F
Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
87°F
Fall
Min:
45°F
Max:
71°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
43.6 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
61%
Neighbors
Bedford features a friendly, diverse community with a median household income of $48,900 and a low unemployment rate of 3.8%. Most residents have at least a high school education, and the average commute time is a manageable 22.5 minutes, supporting a balanced lifestyle for both families and professionals.
Median Income:
$32,500
Household Income:
$48,900
Family Income:
$58,900
Per Capita Income:
$27,400
Income Male:
$41,000
Income Female:
$31,300
Poverty Rate:
14.1%
Non English Speakers:
4.2%
Rent:
$925
Unemployment Rate:
3.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.6%
Commute Time:
22.5 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
85.6%
Bachelors or More:
20.2%
Education
How are the schools in Bedford, VA?
Families in Bedford have access to solid public schools with favorable student-teacher ratios and several private school options. For higher education, reputable colleges such as Central Virginia Community College and the University of Lynchburg are within a short drive, supporting lifelong learning opportunities.
Public Schools
Name:
Bedford Elementary School
Street:
806 Tiger Trail
Phone:
540-586-0275
Students:
470
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.5
Name:
Liberty High School
Street:
100 Liberty Minutemen Dr
Phone:
540-586-2541
Students:
850
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.2
Private Schools
Name:
Bedford Christian Academy
Street:
943 Ole Turnpike Dr
Phone:
540-586-8700
Students:
110
Colleges
Name:
Central Virginia Community College
City:
Lynchburg
State:
VA
Distance:
20 miles
Students:
5,000
Name:
University of Lynchburg
City:
Lynchburg
State:
VA
Distance:
25 miles
Students:
2,500
Healthcare
Access to healthcare in Bedford is strong, anchored by Centra Bedford Memorial Hospital and nearby regional facilities. With 2.3 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 89% health insurance coverage, locals benefit from a solid healthcare infrastructure and emergency services close at hand.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Centra Bedford Memorial Hospital
Address:
1613 Oakwood St, Bedford, VA 24523
Phone:
(540) 586-2441
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital
Address:
1906 Belleview Ave SE, Roanoke, VA 24014
Phone:
(540) 981-7000
Type:
Regional Medical Center
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.3
Health Insurance Coverage:
88.5%
Health Care Index:
76.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Bedford, VA?
The Bedford housing market is accessible, with a median home price of $218,000 and a 57% owner-occupancy rate. Home values have appreciated by nearly 5% in the past year, while rental options remain available and affordable, making it an attractive market for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$218,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$925
Owner Occupied Rate:
57.3%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.7%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Bedford residents are served by the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, conveniently located in Lynchburg. The DMV offers a full range of vehicle and licensing services, with accessible support via phone or online through the state’s official website.
State:
Virginia
Department:
Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
4304 Campbell Ave, Lynchburg, VA 24501
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.