Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Big Stone Gap, VA
Thinking of moving to Big Stone Gap, VA? This scenic small town offers a population of just over 5,100, affordable median home prices around $104,000, and average rents near $660—making cost of living a big plus. Crime rates are low compared to national averages, while the average commute is a quick 19 minutes. Residents enjoy 62% sunny days yearly, access to a local hospital, and the presence of a community college. Explore this welcoming Appalachian community with affordable housing, low living costs, and a peaceful pace of life.
Demographics - Big Stone Gap, VA
Demographics - Big Stone Gap, VA
Big Stone Gap is a close-knit community of just over 5,100 residents, with a median age of 44.2 and a population density of 795 people per square mile. The town is predominantly White, with small Black and Asian populations, and a low rate of non-English speakers, offering a welcoming and familiar atmosphere for newcomers.
Population:
5,166
Density:
795 per sq mi
Median Age:
44.2
Gender Ratio:
91 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
89.7%
Black:
6.4%
Asian:
0.6%
Others:
3.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Big Stone Gap, VA?
Living in Big Stone Gap is highly affordable, with a median home value of $104,000 and average rent around $660 per month. The cost of living index is well below the U.S. average, making it an attractive option for those seeking budget-friendly housing, groceries, and utilities.
Median House Value:
$104,000
Gross Rent:
$660
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$125
Auto Insurance:
$1,020
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$950
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$370
State Taxes:
Low:
2%
|
High:
5.75%
Cost Of Living Index:
74.5
Grocery:
92.2
Housing:
56.5
Utilities:
99.4
Transportation:
82.1
Health Care:
87.8
Miscellaneous:
80.0
Crime
Is Big Stone Gap, VA a safe place to live?
Big Stone Gap boasts a low crime rate, with a 1 in 562 chance of violent crime and property crimes occurring less frequently than in many other towns. Residents can enjoy peace of mind thanks to the community’s overall safety.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
178
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,210
Crime Index:
1,388
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 562
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 83
Weather
What is the weather like in Big Stone Gap, VA year-round?
Residents experience all four seasons, with mild winters averaging lows in the mid-20s, pleasant summers reaching highs in the mid-80s, and around 62% sunny days each year. Annual rainfall is moderate, keeping the area lush and green while still offering plenty of clear days for outdoor activities.
Winter
Min:
24°F
Max:
41°F
Spring
Min:
44°F
Max:
67°F
Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
85°F
Fall
Min:
47°F
Max:
69°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
44 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
The community has a median household income of $38,200 and a family income of $50,800, with a local poverty rate of 23.2%. Most residents commute under 20 minutes to work, and public transportation usage is minimal, reflecting the town’s small size and tight-knit feel.
Median Income:
$27,800
Household Income:
$38,200
Family Income:
$50,800
Per Capita Income:
$20,400
Income Male:
$31,000
Income Female:
$22,600
Poverty Rate:
23.2%
Non English Speakers:
2.5%
Rent:
$660
Unemployment Rate:
6.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
19.3 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
78.6%
Bachelors or More:
13.8%
Education
How are the schools in Big Stone Gap, VA?
Local schools include Powell Valley Middle School and Union Primary School, both featuring small class sizes for personalized attention. For higher education, Mountain Empire Community College is located right in town, serving over 3,000 students and providing accessible learning opportunities.
Public Schools
Name:
Powell Valley Middle School
Street:
3137 Second Avenue E
Phone:
276-523-1322
Students:
420
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.7
Name:
Union Primary School
Street:
2945 2nd Ave E
Phone:
276-523-1340
Students:
370
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.2
Colleges
Name:
Mountain Empire Community College
City:
Big Stone Gap
State:
VA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
3,300
Healthcare
Healthcare needs are met locally by Lonesome Pine Hospital, which offers general and emergency services. The town has a high health insurance coverage rate at nearly 90%, ensuring residents have good access to medical care.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Lonesome Pine Hospital
Address:
1990 Holton Ave E, Big Stone Gap, VA 24219
Phone:
(276) 523-3111
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.4%
Health Care Index:
67.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Big Stone Gap, VA?
The housing market in Big Stone Gap is especially accessible, with a median home price of $104,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate. Rental options are available with average rents for a two-bedroom at $660, and the market shows steady appreciation with low foreclosure rates.
Median Home Price:
$104,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$660
Owner Occupied Rate:
61.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
9.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.3%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
Vehicle and licensing needs are handled by the Virginia DMV office in nearby Coeburn, offering convenient access to essential motor vehicle services for Big Stone Gap residents.
State:
Virginia
Department:
Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
207 Front Street N, Coeburn, VA 24230
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.