Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Blackwater, VA
Considering a move to Blackwater, VA? With a small-town population of 925 and a median home price of just $98,000, Blackwater offers affordability and a peaceful rural lifestyle. Commute times average 25 minutes, and crime rates are notably low compared to national norms. While the cost of living is well below the U.S. average, local amenities include access to schools and nearby healthcare facilities, plus a climate with mild winters and 60% sunny days each year. Explore the details below to see if Blackwater fits your next chapter.
Demographics - Blackwater, VA
Demographics - Blackwater, VA
Blackwater, VA is a small rural community of around 925 residents, characterized by a predominantly White population and a median age of 44.2 years. The gender ratio is nearly balanced, and the area sees very few non-English speakers, reflecting a close-knit, traditional atmosphere. Residents can expect a peaceful, low-density environment ideal for those seeking a quiet lifestyle.
Population:
925
Density:
75 per sq mi
Median Age:
44.2
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.0%
Ethnic Composition
White:
96.0%
Black:
1.2%
Asian:
0.3%
Others:
2.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Blackwater, VA?
Blackwater offers an affordable cost of living, with a median home value of just $98,000 and average rent around $650 per month. Essential expenses, including utilities and groceries, are notably below national averages, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious families and retirees. State taxes are moderate, and the overall cost of living index is significantly lower than most U.S. cities.
Median House Value:
$98,000
Gross Rent:
$650
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$130
Auto Insurance:
$1,050
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$860
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$315
State Taxes:
Low:
2.0%
|
High:
5.75%
Cost Of Living Index:
78.3
Grocery:
95.2
Housing:
48.1
Utilities:
97.3
Transportation:
85.2
Health Care:
94.0
Miscellaneous:
90.8
Crime
Is Blackwater, VA a safe place to live?
Blackwater experiences low crime rates, with violent crime at only 95 incidents per 100,000 people and property crime also well below the national average. Residents enjoy a high sense of safety, with a 1 in 1,050 chance of experiencing violent crime. The community’s tranquil setting contributes to its reputation as a secure place to live.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
95
Property Crimes Per 100k:
690
Crime Index:
785
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,050
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 145
Weather
What is the weather like in Blackwater, VA year-round?
Residents in Blackwater enjoy four distinct seasons, with mild winters averaging lows of 27°F and warm summers reaching highs of 86°F. The area receives about 42 inches of annual rainfall and boasts 60% sunny days, providing a comfortable climate for outdoor activities. Seasonal changes are gentle, making it ideal for those who appreciate varied yet moderate weather.
Winter
Min:
27°F
Max:
46°F
Spring
Min:
44°F
Max:
69°F
Summer
Min:
63°F
Max:
86°F
Fall
Min:
46°F
Max:
70°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
42 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
60%
Neighbors
Households in Blackwater have a median income of $37,800, with a family median of $44,200 and a poverty rate of 23.5%. The community is primarily composed of working families, with most residents commuting about 25 minutes for work and minimal reliance on public transportation. Education levels are modest, with over three-quarters having completed high school.
Median Income:
$30,500
Household Income:
$37,800
Family Income:
$44,200
Per Capita Income:
$20,300
Income Male:
$33,600
Income Female:
$26,500
Poverty Rate:
23.5%
Non English Speakers:
2.0%
Rent:
$650
Unemployment Rate:
5.6%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
24.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
77.8%
Bachelors or More:
11.5%
Education
How are the schools in Blackwater, VA?
Blackwater families benefit from local public schools like Elydale Middle and St. Charles Elementary, each offering low student-teacher ratios for more personalized attention. Higher education is accessible within 20 miles at Mountain Empire Community College, serving about 3,000 students. While private school options are limited, public education ensures foundational learning opportunities.
Public Schools
Name:
Elydale Middle School
Street:
128 Elydale Rd
Phone:
276-346-2777
Students:
350
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.5
Name:
St. Charles Elementary School
Street:
22265 St. Charles Rd
Phone:
276-383-4421
Students:
210
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.2
Colleges
Name:
Mountain Empire Community College
City:
Big Stone Gap
State:
VA
Distance:
18 miles
Students:
3,000
Healthcare
Blackwater residents have access to nearby medical services, including Lonesome Pine Hospital and Lee County Community Hospital, both offering emergency care. There are 1.4 physicians per 1,000 residents and a health insurance coverage rate of 86.3%, supporting basic healthcare needs locally. While specialized care may require travel, routine services are readily available.
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
Name:
Lee County Community Hospital
Address:
127 Healthcare Dr, Pennington Gap, VA 24277
Phone:
(276) 546-5000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.4
Health Insurance Coverage:
86.3%
Health Care Index:
67.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Blackwater, VA?
The housing market in Blackwater is highly affordable, with a median home price of $98,000 and a strong owner-occupancy rate of 74.1%. Rental options remain accessible, with average rates for a two-bedroom at $650 and a healthy vacancy rate. Home appreciation is steady, making it an appealing market for buyers seeking long-term value.
Median Home Price:
$98,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$650
Owner Occupied Rate:
74.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.6%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
2.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Vehicle registration and licensing for Blackwater residents are managed by the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, headquartered in Richmond. Services can be accessed online, by phone, or at statewide branch locations, offering convenient options for new and current residents. The DMV provides comprehensive resources for all driving and identification needs.
State:
Virginia
Department:
Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
2300 W Broad St, Richmond, VA 23269
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.