Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Buena Vista, VA
Thinking of moving to Buena Vista, VA? With a close-knit population of just over 6,200, Buena Vista offers affordable living—median home prices are around $152,000 and average rent is just $820. Residents enjoy a short average commute of 18.5 minutes, a low violent crime rate of 138 per 100K, and plenty of sunshine (61% sunny days). The city is home to Southern Virginia University, provides access to quality public schools, and boasts a scenic setting near the Blue Ridge Mountains—making it a friendly, budget-minded option for your next move.
Demographics - Buena Vista, VA
Demographics - Buena Vista, VA
Buena Vista is a small, tight-knit city with a population of about 6,200 and a median age of 38, reflecting a balanced mix of working professionals and families. The community is predominantly White, with a diverse presence of other groups, and has a slightly higher female population. With a density of 1,600 people per square mile, residents enjoy a sense of community without feeling crowded.
Population:
6,237
Density:
1,600 per sq mi
Median Age:
38.1
Gender Ratio:
94 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
90.1%
Black:
4.3%
Asian:
1.1%
Others:
4.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Buena Vista, VA?
Living in Buena Vista is budget-friendly, with a cost of living index of 81.5, well below the national average. Median home values are around $152,000, and average rent is $820, making housing especially affordable. Utilities and groceries are also reasonably priced, making this city an attractive choice for those looking to stretch their dollars further.
Median House Value:
$152,000
Gross Rent:
$820
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$130
Auto Insurance:
$1,220
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,030
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$410
State Taxes:
Low:
2.0%
|
High:
5.75%
Cost Of Living Index:
81.5
Grocery:
93.2
Housing:
64.1
Utilities:
98.0
Transportation:
86.5
Health Care:
93.4
Miscellaneous:
86.2
Crime
Is Buena Vista, VA a safe place to live?
Buena Vista offers a relatively safe environment, with a low violent crime rate of 138 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime rate of 1,320 per 100,000. The chance of experiencing a violent crime is about 1 in 725, providing peace of mind for families and individuals. Most residents feel secure in their neighborhoods, contributing to the city's friendly atmosphere.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
138
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,320
Crime Index:
1,458
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 725
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 76
Weather
What is the weather like in Buena Vista, VA year-round?
The city experiences four distinct seasons, with mild winters averaging lows of 27°F and warm summers reaching highs of 85°F. Residents enjoy approximately 61% sunny days each year and nearly 40 inches of rainfall, supporting lush greenery and outdoor activities. Buena Vista’s climate is ideal for those who appreciate varied weather and scenic mountain surroundings.
Winter
Min:
27°F
Max:
45°F
Spring
Min:
42°F
Max:
70°F
Summer
Min:
61°F
Max:
85°F
Fall
Min:
45°F
Max:
70°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
39.7 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
61%
Neighbors
Buena Vista’s residents have a median household income of $44,300 and a family income of $55,900, with about 17% living below the poverty line. Most adults have at least a high school education, and the average commute is a quick 18.5 minutes. The area is primarily car-dependent, with public transit used by less than 1% of locals.
Median Income:
$44,300
Household Income:
$44,300
Family Income:
$55,900
Per Capita Income:
$23,100
Income Male:
$40,000
Income Female:
$31,000
Poverty Rate:
17.4%
Non English Speakers:
4.5%
Rent:
$820
Unemployment Rate:
4.6%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
18.5 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
82.7%
Bachelors or More:
17.2%
Education
How are the schools in Buena Vista, VA?
Buena Vista offers strong educational options, including well-regarded public schools with low student-teacher ratios and the presence of Southern Virginia University in town. Nearby Lexington also hosts Washington and Lee University and Virginia Military Institute, expanding higher education opportunities. Families will find supportive learning environments and easy access to colleges and universities.
Public Schools
Name:
Parry McCluer High School
Street:
100 Bradford Dr
Phone:
540-261-1826
Students:
390
Student Teacher Ratio:
9.8
Name:
F.W. Kling Jr. Elementary School
Street:
3400 Lombardy Ave
Phone:
540-261-2129
Students:
330
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.5
Colleges
Name:
Southern Virginia University
City:
Buena Vista
State:
VA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
1,100
Name:
Washington and Lee University
City:
Lexington
State:
VA
Distance:
7 miles
Students:
2,200
Name:
Virginia Military Institute
City:
Lexington
State:
VA
Distance:
8 miles
Students:
1,700
Healthcare
Residents have access to quality healthcare through nearby Carilion Rockbridge Community Hospital, which provides emergency services. With 1.9 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 88% health insurance coverage, healthcare needs are well-supported. The area’s healthcare index of 71.2 reflects reliable and accessible medical services for families and individuals.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Carilion Rockbridge Community Hospital
Address:
1 Healthy Way, Lexington, VA 24450
Phone:
(540) 458-3300
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.9
Health Insurance Coverage:
88.4%
Health Care Index:
71.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Buena Vista, VA?
Buena Vista’s housing market is affordable and stable, with a median home price of $152,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom at $820. About 59% of homes are owner-occupied, while the rental vacancy rate stands at 6.1%. Home values have appreciated by nearly 5% in the past year, making the city appealing for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$152,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$820
Owner Occupied Rate:
59.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.7%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Vehicle services for Buena Vista residents are managed by the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, headquartered in Richmond. DMV services, information, and licensing are easily accessible online or by phone, streamlining the process for new and existing residents. Registration and licensing requirements follow Virginia state guidelines.
State:
Virginia
Department:
Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
2300 W. Broad St., Richmond, VA 23220
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.