Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Council, VA
Thinking of moving to Council, VA? With a small population of about 530, Council offers affordable living with a median home price near $83,000 and average rents around $610. Residents enjoy a low crime rate, peaceful rural lifestyle, and easy access to local schools. While the area has a higher poverty rate and limited public transit, its relaxed pace, reasonable cost of living, friendly community, and mild four-season climate make it an inviting option for those seeking small-town charm.
Demographics - Council, VA
Demographics - Council, VA
Council, VA is a close-knit rural community of about 530 residents, with a predominantly White population and a median age of 44. Most households speak English, and the gender ratio is nearly even. The area's small size fosters a neighborly atmosphere and a slower pace of life.
Population:
530
Density:
72 per sq mi
Median Age:
44.3
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.1%

Ethnic Composition
White:
96.2%
Black:
1.3%
Asian:
0.3%
Others:
2.2%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Council, VA?
Living in Council is notably affordable, with a median home value of $83,000 and average monthly rent at $610. The overall cost of living index is well below the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious residents. Utilities and groceries remain reasonably priced, helping households keep expenses manageable.
Median House Value:
$83,000
Gross Rent:
$610
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$125
Auto Insurance:
$1,110
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$850
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$325
State Taxes:
Low:
2.0%
|
High:
5.75%
Cost Of Living Index:
77.5
Grocery:
92.8
Housing:
56.4
Utilities:
98.5
Transportation:
82.0
Health Care:
95.2
Miscellaneous:
87.3
Crime
Is Council, VA a safe place to live?
Council experiences a low crime rate, with violent crime occurring at a rate of just 62 incidents per 100,000 residents. Property crime is also infrequent, offering residents peace of mind and a sense of safety. The community's small size and rural setting contribute to its secure environment.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
62
Property Crimes Per 100k:
480
Crime Index:
542
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,615
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 208
Weather
What is the weather like in Council, VA year-round?
Residents in Council enjoy four distinct seasons, with mild winters averaging lows around 25°F and warm summers reaching highs of 85°F. The area receives about 44 inches of rainfall annually and sees sunshine on 56% of days, creating a pleasant and balanced climate. This weather supports outdoor activities throughout the year.

Winter
Min:
25°F
Max:
43°F

Spring
Min:
42°F
Max:
68°F

Summer
Min:
61°F
Max:
85°F

Fall
Min:
44°F
Max:
69°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
44.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
56%
Neighbors
Council is characterized by modest household and family incomes, with a median household income of $41,800 and a family income of $50,400. The poverty rate is higher than average at 21%, and unemployment is around 5.9%, but the strong sense of community and affordable housing make it appealing for those seeking a simpler lifestyle. Most residents commute about half an hour for work, and public transit use is minimal.
Median Income:
$32,000
Household Income:
$41,800
Family Income:
$50,400
Per Capita Income:
$20,100
Income Male:
$32,500
Income Female:
$27,300
Poverty Rate:
21.0%
Non English Speakers:
3.1%
Rent:
$610
Unemployment Rate:
5.9%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
29.4 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
75.6%
Bachelors or More:
10.8%
Education
How are the schools in Council, VA?
Council is served by local public schools with small class sizes, including Council Elementary and Council High School, fostering a close student-teacher environment. The community is also within a short drive of Southwest Virginia Community College, offering access to higher education and workforce training. While private school options are limited, educational needs are met through these accessible institutions.

Public Schools
Name:
Council Elementary School
Street:
7765 Helen Henderson Hwy
Phone:
276-859-2231
Students:
160
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.5
Name:
Council High School
Street:
7802 Helen Henderson Hwy
Phone:
276-859-2131
Students:
190
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.2

Colleges
Name:
Southwest Virginia Community College
City:
Cedar Bluff
State:
VA
Distance:
22 miles
Students:
2,700
Healthcare
Residents have access to general and surgical care at Russell County Medical Center, which offers emergency services nearby. Health insurance coverage is high at nearly 90%, and there are about 1.2 physicians per 1,000 people. While healthcare resources are limited compared to urban centers, essential services are available locally.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Russell County Medical Center
Address:
58 Carroll Street, Lebanon, VA 24266
Phone:
(276) 883-8000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.5%
Health Care Index:
68.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Council, VA?
The housing market in Council is highly accessible, with median home prices at $83,000 and a strong owner-occupancy rate of nearly 75%. Rental options are available at an average price of $610 for a two-bedroom, and home appreciation has seen steady growth at just under 4% annually. The market is stable, with low foreclosure and vacancy rates.
Median Home Price:
$83,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$610
Owner Occupied Rate:
74.9%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.9%
New Construction Rate:
0.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Residents of Council can access DMV services through the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, with the main office located in Richmond and comprehensive services available online. The DMV provides all standard vehicle registration, licensing, and titling support for Virginia drivers. Local residents benefit from the convenience of both in-person and digital service options.
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.