Virginia / Washington County

Moving to Bristol, VA

Thinking of making a move to Bristol, VA? Get helpful local information about living costs, neighborhoods, schools, weather, housing, DMV details, and practical relocation details before you plan your move.

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Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Bristol, VA

Considering a move to Bristol, VA? This welcoming community of 16,500 residents offers a blend of suburban charm and convenience, with median home prices around $143,000 and average rents near $770. Commute times average 18 minutes and public transport is accessible, making it great for professionals. The area boasts low violent crime, strong schools, and plenty of sunny days (56% annually), ideal for families and commuters alike. Explore Bristol's cost of living, education, and friendly neighborhoods to see if it's the right fit for your next move.

Demographics - Bristol, VA

Bristol has a population of 16,500 residents, offering a diverse community with a median age of nearly 45 and a balanced gender ratio. The area features a strong blend of backgrounds, with about 89% White, 6% Black, and 1% Asian residents, and over 4% speaking a language other than English at home. Its high population density contributes to a lively suburban atmosphere.

Population
16,500
Density
1,200 per sq mi
Median Age
45.2
Gender Ratio
91 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage
3.8%

Ethnic Composition

White
89.0%
Black
5.6%
Asian
0.7%
Others
4.7%

Cost Of Living

What is the average cost of living in Bristol, VA?

The cost of living in Bristol is higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 78.5. Median home values are around $143,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom apartment are approximately $770. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are also elevated, reflecting the area's desirable location and amenities.

Median House Value
$143,000
Gross Rent
$770
Monthly Electricity Charges
$120
Auto Insurance
$1,120
House Owner Cost With Mortgage
$1,020
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage
$400
State Taxes
Low: 2%| High: 5.75%
Cost Of Living Index
78.5
Grocery
94.0
Housing
61.5
Utilities
97.0
Transportation
88.0
Health Care
91.2
Miscellaneous
88.5

Crime

Is Bristol, VA a safe place to live?

Bristol is considered a safe community, with a low violent crime rate of 262 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime chance of 1 in 39. Most residents enjoy peace of mind, making it an attractive choice for families. The crime index remains below many urban areas in Virginia.

Violent Crimes Per 100k
262
Property Crimes Per 100k
2,540
Crime Index
2,802
Chance Of Violent Crime
1 in 382
Chance Of Property Crime
1 in 39

Weather

What is the weather like in Bristol, VA year-round?

Bristol experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 84°F and cold winters dipping to 26°F. The area receives about 40 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine on 56% of days. This climate offers residents a balanced mix of outdoor opportunities year-round.

Winter

Min
26°F
Max
45°F

Summer

Min
62°F
Max
84°F

Spring

Min
42°F
Max
71°F

Fall

Min
43°F
Max
71°F
Average Rainfall Inches
39.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage
56%

Neighbors

The neighborhood boasts a healthy median household income of $41,800 and a low poverty rate of 20.3%. Over 84% of residents have at least a high school diploma, and nearly 18% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Commute times average 18 minutes, and almost 0% use public transportation, reflecting the area's accessibility and educated population.

Median Income
$26,250
Household Income
$41,800
Family Income
$58,800
Per Capita Income
$26,000
Income Male
$37,000
Income Female
$28,500
Poverty Rate
20.3%
Non English Speakers
3.8%
Rent
$770
Unemployment Rate
5.1%
Public Transport Usage
0.3%
Commute Time
18.1 minutes

Education

High School or Higher
84.1%
Bachelors or More
18.2%

Education

How are the schools in Bristol, VA?

Bristol offers quality education options, with public schools like Virginia High School and Van Pelt Elementary School known for favorable student-to-teacher ratios. Families also have access to private schools and several nearby colleges, including Virginia Highlands Community College and King University. The community is committed to educational excellence for all age groups.

Public Schools

Name
Virginia High School
Street
650 Long Crescent Dr
Phone
276-821-5858
Students
820
Student Teacher Ratio
12.9
Name
Van Pelt Elementary School
Street
1817 Edgemont Ave
Phone
276-821-5841
Students
370
Student Teacher Ratio
14.3

Private Schools

Name
Sullins Academy
Street
22218 Sullins Academy Dr
Phone
276-669-4101
Students
185

Colleges

Name
Virginia Highlands Community College
City
Abingdon
State
VA
Distance
13 miles
Students
3,400
Name
King University
City
Bristol
State
TN
Distance
2 miles
Students
1,500

Healthcare

Bristol residents have access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like Bristol Regional Medical Center nearby. The community benefits from a high physician-to-resident ratio of 2.1 per 1,000 people and 89.6% health insurance coverage. Local healthcare services are reliable and comprehensive.

Major Hospitals

Name
Bristol Regional Medical Center
Address
1 Medical Park Blvd, Bristol, TN 37620
Phone
(423) 844-1121
Type
General & Surgical
Emergency Services
Yes

Healthcare Access

Physicians Per 1000
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage
89.6%
Health Care Index
69.3

Housing Market

What is the housing market like in Bristol, VA?

The local housing market is strong, with a median home price of $143,000 and an owner-occupied rate of nearly 58%. The market has seen a 6.3% appreciation over the past year, and rental vacancy rates remain moderate at 8.4%. Bristol offers a mix of stability and opportunity for both buyers and renters.

Median Home Price
$143,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom
$770
Owner Occupied Rate
57.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate
8.4%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr)
6.3%
New Construction Rate
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate
0.7%

DMV Information

Residents of Bristol handle vehicle services through the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, conveniently located in Salem. The state DMV provides driver licensing, vehicle registration, and other essential services both in person and online. Information and resources are easily accessible for new and existing residents.

State
Virginia
Department
Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles
Address
2211 W. Main St, Salem, VA 24153
Phone
1-804-497-7100

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.

FAQs About Moving to Bristol, VA

Answers use the same city data shown on this page, including costs, housing, schools, safety, weather, healthcare, and DMV details.

Before moving to Bristol, review the core fields on this page: population 16,500, median home value $143,000, average rent for 2 bedroom $770, commute time 18.1 minutes, and sunny days percentage 56%.

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