Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Birchleaf, VA
Considering a move to Birchleaf, VA? This quiet rural community of about 600 people offers affordable living, with median home prices around $93,000 and average rents near $750. Residents enjoy low crime rates (just 102 violent crimes per 100k), a relaxed average commute of 27 minutes, and scenic mountain views with 59% sunny days each year. While incomes and educational attainment are below state averages, Birchleaf is ideal for those seeking a peaceful lifestyle, friendly neighbors, and easy access to outdoor recreation.
Demographics - Birchleaf, VA
Demographics - Birchleaf, VA
Birchleaf is a small, close-knit rural community with around 600 residents and a balanced gender ratio. The population is predominantly White, with a median age of 44.2, reflecting a mature and stable environment. Non-English speakers are rare, making the area culturally consistent and easy to settle into for English-speaking newcomers.
Population:
600
Density:
40 per sq mi
Median Age:
44.2
Gender Ratio:
99 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
96.5%
Black:
1.5%
Asian:
0.3%
Others:
1.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Birchleaf, VA?
Living in Birchleaf is highly affordable, with a median home value of $93,000 and average rent around $750 per month. The overall cost of living index is well below the national average, especially for housing and groceries, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious families or retirees. Utilities and transportation costs remain moderate, helping keep monthly expenses manageable.
Median House Value:
$93,000
Gross Rent:
$750
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$130
Auto Insurance:
$1,020
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$950
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$310
State Taxes:
Low:
2.0%
|
High:
5.75%
Cost Of Living Index:
81.4
Grocery:
91.2
Housing:
48.9
Utilities:
99.6
Transportation:
82.1
Health Care:
92.8
Miscellaneous:
83.0
Crime
Is Birchleaf, VA a safe place to live?
Birchleaf experiences low crime rates, with only 102 violent crimes per 100,000 residents and a property crime chance of 1 in 105, offering a safe and secure environment for families. This peaceful atmosphere is a major draw for those prioritizing safety in their next move. The community’s low crime index underscores its reputation as a tranquil place to live.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
102
Property Crimes Per 100k:
950
Crime Index:
1,052
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 980
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 105
Weather
What is the weather like in Birchleaf, VA year-round?
Residents of Birchleaf enjoy four distinct seasons, with mild winters averaging lows of 22°F and warm summers reaching up to 84°F. The area receives about 43.5 inches of rainfall annually and boasts 59% sunny days, perfect for outdoor activities and enjoying scenic mountain views. The climate provides a balanced mix of seasonal experiences and comfortable living year-round.
Winter
Min:
22°F
Max:
42°F
Spring
Min:
38°F
Max:
67°F
Summer
Min:
59°F
Max:
84°F
Fall
Min:
41°F
Max:
69°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
43.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
59%
Neighbors
Community members in Birchleaf have a median household income of $37,200, with a poverty rate of 22.1% and an unemployment rate of 5.5%. Most residents commute about 27 minutes to work, reflecting the rural setting and reliance on personal vehicles. Education levels are moderate, with over three-quarters holding a high school diploma or higher.
Median Income:
$28,000
Household Income:
$37,200
Family Income:
$46,800
Per Capita Income:
$19,100
Income Male:
$31,000
Income Female:
$25,000
Poverty Rate:
22.1%
Non English Speakers:
2.2%
Rent:
$750
Unemployment Rate:
5.5%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
27.3 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
77.4%
Bachelors or More:
11.2%
Education
How are the schools in Birchleaf, VA?
Birchleaf families have access to Sandlick Elementary School, which serves roughly 370 students with a favorable student-teacher ratio. While there are no private schools in town, Southwest Virginia Community College is located just 22 miles away in Richlands, offering higher education opportunities. Public schooling and nearby college options support educational needs from elementary through post-secondary levels.
Public Schools
Name:
Sandlick Elementary School
Street:
147 Sandlick Road
Phone:
276-835-1611
Students:
370
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.6
Colleges
Name:
Southwest Virginia Community College
City:
Richlands
State:
VA
Distance:
22 miles
Students:
3,500
Healthcare
Healthcare access is supported by nearby Dickenson Community Hospital, offering general and emergency services just a short drive away. With 1.5 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 90% health insurance coverage, basic medical needs are well-served locally. The area’s healthcare index indicates reasonable access and affordability for most residents.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Dickenson Community Hospital
Address:
312 Hospital Drive, Clintwood, VA 24228
Phone:
(276) 926-0300
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.1%
Health Care Index:
68.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Birchleaf, VA?
Birchleaf’s housing market is highly accessible, with a median home price of $93,000 and 83% of properties being owner-occupied. Rental options are available at an average of $750 for a two-bedroom home, and vacancy rates remain moderate. Modest home appreciation and low foreclosure rates contribute to a stable and attractive market for buyers.
Median Home Price:
$93,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$750
Owner Occupied Rate:
83.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.3%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
2.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.4%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Residents of Birchleaf are served by the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, with resources available online and at the main office in Richmond. Services include vehicle registration, licensing, and other essential needs for drivers. The DMV provides convenient access for all Virginia residents, including those in rural communities like Birchleaf.
State:
Virginia
Department:
Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
2300 W. Broad Street, Richmond, VA 23220
Phone:
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.