Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Emporia, VA
Thinking of moving to Emporia, VA? With a small-town population of 5,325, Emporia offers affordable living—median home prices are just $110,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom is $820. While property crime rates are higher than average, the city boasts a short 18-minute commute and a mild, sunny climate with nearly 60% sunny days each year. Local schools, access to healthcare, and a welcoming community round out Emporia as a practical choice for those seeking value and a slower pace of life.
Demographics - Emporia, VA
Demographics - Emporia, VA
Emporia is a small, close-knit city of about 5,325 residents, with a majority Black population and a median age of 39.9 years. The community is moderately dense and has a lower percentage of non-English speakers, making it accessible and welcoming for newcomers.
Population:
5,325
Density:
1,040 per sq mi
Median Age:
39.9
Gender Ratio:
81 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
33.2%
Black:
62.2%
Asian:
0.8%
Others:
3.8%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Emporia, VA?
Living in Emporia is notably affordable, with a median home value of $110,000 and average rent around $820 per month. The overall cost of living index is well below the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families.
Median House Value:
$110,000
Gross Rent:
$820
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$130
Auto Insurance:
$1,120
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,100
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$370
State Taxes:
Low:
2%
|
High:
5.75%
Cost Of Living Index:
78.5
Grocery:
92.3
Housing:
55.2
Utilities:
106.1
Transportation:
77.8
Health Care:
95.4
Miscellaneous:
88.7
Crime
Is Emporia, VA a safe place to live?
Emporia experiences higher property crime rates compared to national averages, with a 1 in 34 chance of property crime and a 1 in 192 chance of violent crime. Residents should be mindful of security but can still enjoy the city's community-oriented atmosphere.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
520
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,950
Crime Index:
3,470
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 192
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 34
Weather
What is the weather like in Emporia, VA year-round?
Emporia enjoys a mild climate, with warm summers reaching highs of 89°F and cool winters with lows around 29°F. The area receives about 45.8 inches of rainfall annually and benefits from plenty of sunshine, with nearly 60% sunny days each year.

Winter
Min:
29°F
Max:
48°F

Spring
Min:
45°F
Max:
71°F

Summer
Min:
67°F
Max:
89°F

Fall
Min:
49°F
Max:
72°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
45.8 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
59%
Neighbors
Emporia's residents have a median household income of $34,100 and a relatively high poverty rate of 29.7%. Most people commute about 18 minutes to work, and the community values education, with nearly 75% holding a high school diploma or higher.
Median Income:
$28,800
Household Income:
$34,100
Family Income:
$38,900
Per Capita Income:
$18,900
Income Male:
$31,200
Income Female:
$26,500
Poverty Rate:
29.7%
Non English Speakers:
3.5%
Rent:
$820
Unemployment Rate:
7.1%
Public Transport Usage:
0.9%
Commute Time:
18.2 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
74.8%
Bachelors or More:
11.3%
Education
How are the schools in Emporia, VA?
Emporia offers a selection of public and private schools, including Belfield Elementary and Wyatt Middle, as well as access to higher education nearby at Southside Virginia Community College. The schools have manageable class sizes and support the city's focus on educational attainment.

Public Schools
Name:
Belfield Elementary School
Street:
515 Belfield Rd
Phone:
434-634-5566
Students:
480
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.2
Name:
Wyatt Middle School
Street:
206 Slagles Lake Rd
Phone:
434-634-2195
Students:
320
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.9

Private Schools
Name:
Faith Christian Academy
Street:
1001 W Atlantic St
Phone:
434-634-3211
Students:
120

Colleges
Name:
Southside Virginia Community College (Greensville Co. Campus)
City:
Alberta
State:
VA
Distance:
21 miles
Students:
3,600
Healthcare
Healthcare is accessible in Emporia, anchored by the Southern Virginia Regional Medical Center, which offers emergency services. Most residents have health insurance, and physician availability is typical for a city of this size.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Southern Virginia Regional Medical Center
Address:
727 N Main St, Emporia, VA 23847
Phone:
(434) 348-4400
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.2%
Health Care Index:
62.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Emporia, VA?
The local housing market is affordable, with a median home price of $110,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom apartment at $820. Homeownership and rental opportunities are balanced, and house values have seen modest appreciation over the past year.
Median Home Price:
$110,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$820
Owner Occupied Rate:
48.6%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.9%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.3%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Emporia residents are served by the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles located conveniently in town, offering all standard services for drivers and vehicle owners. The DMV is easily accessible and provides online resources for added convenience.
State:
Virginia
Department:
Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
1300 Greensville County Cir, Emporia, VA 23847
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.