Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Chilhowie, VA
Thinking of moving to Chilhowie, VA? This charming small town of 1,635 residents boasts low housing costs, with median home prices around $140,000 and average rents just $690. Enjoy a peaceful lifestyle with short 18-minute commutes, low crime rates, and beautiful Blue Ridge Mountain scenery. Local schools offer small class sizes, and the region experiences mild summers and cool winters with 57% sunny days. Chilhowie is ideal for those seeking affordable living, tranquility, and friendly community vibes.
Demographics - Chilhowie, VA
Demographics - Chilhowie, VA
Chilhowie, VA is a close-knit community of 1,635 residents with a median age of 45.8, reflecting a mature population. The town is predominantly White at 95.1% and has a balanced gender ratio, offering a quiet and familiar atmosphere. With a population density of 720 per square mile and very few non-English speakers, newcomers can expect a welcoming, small-town environment.
Population:
1,635
Density:
720 per sq mi
Median Age:
45.8
Gender Ratio:
92 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.4%
Ethnic Composition
White:
95.1%
Black:
2.1%
Asian:
0.5%
Others:
2.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Chilhowie, VA?
Chilhowie offers a highly affordable cost of living, with a median home value of $140,000 and average rents around $690 per month. The cost of living index sits well below the national average at 81.5, making it an attractive choice for budget-minded families and retirees. Utilities, groceries, and transportation also remain cost-effective, helping residents stretch their dollars further.
Median House Value:
$140,000
Gross Rent:
$690
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,020
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$980
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$370
State Taxes:
Low:
2.0%
|
High:
5.75%
Cost Of Living Index:
81.5
Grocery:
94.0
Housing:
60.0
Utilities:
96.0
Transportation:
87.0
Health Care:
96.8
Miscellaneous:
87.5
Crime
Is Chilhowie, VA a safe place to live?
Chilhowie is a safe place to live, with a violent crime rate of just 122 per 100,000 people and a property crime rate much lower than many urban areas. Residents enjoy peace of mind, as the chances of being affected by violent or property crime are relatively low. The overall crime index reflects a secure, family-friendly environment.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
122
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,030
Crime Index:
1,152
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 820
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 97
Weather
What is the weather like in Chilhowie, VA year-round?
Residents of Chilhowie experience four distinct seasons, with mild summers averaging highs of 85°F and winters that rarely dip below 25°F. The area enjoys about 57% sunny days each year and receives moderate rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Fall and spring bring comfortable temperatures and scenic beauty in this Blue Ridge Mountain region.
Winter
Min:
25°F
Max:
44°F
Spring
Min:
42°F
Max:
68°F
Summer
Min:
60°F
Max:
85°F
Fall
Min:
44°F
Max:
70°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
42.7 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
57%
Neighbors
The community features a median household income of $42,600, with a poverty rate of 15.1% and an unemployment rate of 4.8%. Most residents commute just 18 minutes for work, and over 81% have at least a high school diploma. The town’s friendly, working-class vibe is complemented by low public transportation use and affordable rents.
Median Income:
$34,800
Household Income:
$42,600
Family Income:
$49,800
Per Capita Income:
$23,200
Income Male:
$38,000
Income Female:
$29,000
Poverty Rate:
15.1%
Non English Speakers:
2.4%
Rent:
$690
Unemployment Rate:
4.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.1%
Commute Time:
18.3 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
81.2%
Bachelors or More:
12.4%
Education
How are the schools in Chilhowie, VA?
Local students attend Chilhowie’s elementary, middle, and high schools, all offering small class sizes for personalized attention. While there are no private schools in town, higher education is close by with Emory & Henry College and Virginia Highlands Community College located within a 25-mile drive. The community values education, with the majority of adults holding a high school diploma or higher.
Public Schools
Name:
Chilhowie Elementary School
Street:
1505 Whitetop Rd
Phone:
276-646-8988
Students:
400
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.5
Name:
Chilhowie Middle School
Street:
1160 Lee Hwy
Phone:
276-646-3334
Students:
350
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.8
Name:
Chilhowie High School
Street:
1160 Lee Hwy
Phone:
276-646-8966
Students:
450
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.1
Colleges
Name:
Emory & Henry College
City:
Emory
State:
VA
Distance:
15 miles
Students:
1,200
Name:
Virginia Highlands Community College
City:
Abingdon
State:
VA
Distance:
22 miles
Students:
2,900
Healthcare
Chilhowie residents have convenient access to Smyth County Community Hospital in nearby Marion, offering general and emergency care. With about 1.6 physicians per 1,000 people and over 90% health insurance coverage, healthcare needs are well supported locally. The area provides reliable medical services for families and seniors alike.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Smyth County Community Hospital
Address:
245 Medical Park Dr, Marion, VA 24354
Phone:
(276) 378-1200
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
90.2%
Health Care Index:
71.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Chilhowie, VA?
Chilhowie’s housing market is notably affordable, with a median home price of $140,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate of nearly 65%. Rental options are available, with average two-bedroom rents at $690 and a rental vacancy rate of 7.2%. Home values are appreciating steadily, making this a stable market for buyers and renters alike.
Median Home Price:
$140,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$690
Owner Occupied Rate:
64.7%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
Residents handle vehicle registration, licensing, and other DMV needs through the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, headquartered in Richmond. The DMV offers a comprehensive website and customer service for local drivers. Most services can be accessed online or by phone, ensuring convenience for Chilhowie residents.
State:
Virginia
Department:
Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
2301 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.