Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Forest, VA
Considering a move to Forest, VA? This friendly community of 11,400 offers affordable living with a median home price of $343,000 and average 2-bedroom rents around $1,150. Residents enjoy low crime rates (just 78 violent crimes per 100K), a short average commute of 23 minutes, and access to top-rated schools like Jefferson Forest High. With 60% sunny days, four distinct seasons, and easy access to major healthcare centers in nearby Lynchburg, Forest is a great choice for families and professionals seeking a peaceful yet connected lifestyle.
Demographics - Forest, VA
Demographics - Forest, VA
Forest, VA is home to about 11,400 residents, with a population density of 900 per square mile and a median age of 44.2 years. The community is predominantly White (86%), with a balanced gender ratio and a small but notable percentage of non-English speakers, contributing to a welcoming, family-oriented environment.
Population:
11,400
Density:
900 per sq mi
Median Age:
44.2
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
6.8%
Ethnic Composition
White:
86.0%
Black:
8.5%
Asian:
2.1%
Others:
3.4%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Forest, VA?
Living in Forest is relatively affordable, with a median home value of $343,000 and average rents around $1,150 for a two-bedroom apartment. The overall cost of living index is below the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious families and professionals.
Median House Value:
$343,000
Gross Rent:
$1,150
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$124
Auto Insurance:
$1,290
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,775
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$520
State Taxes:
Low:
2%
|
High:
5.75%
Cost Of Living Index:
94.8
Grocery:
96.0
Housing:
91.5
Utilities:
103.2
Transportation:
91.0
Health Care:
95.5
Miscellaneous:
98.0
Crime
Is Forest, VA a safe place to live?
Forest enjoys a low crime rate, with only 78 violent crimes and 865 property crimes per 100,000 residents. Residents have a low chance of encountering crime, making it a safe and secure place to call home.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
78
Property Crimes Per 100k:
865
Crime Index:
943
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,282
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 116
Weather
What is the weather like in Forest, VA year-round?
Residents experience four distinct seasons, with mild winters averaging lows of 25°F and warm summers reaching highs of 87°F. The area receives about 43 inches of rain annually and enjoys 60% sunny days, providing a comfortable climate year-round.
Winter
Min:
25°F
Max:
46°F
Spring
Min:
45°F
Max:
72°F
Summer
Min:
65°F
Max:
87°F
Fall
Min:
48°F
Max:
73°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
43.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
60%
Neighbors
The community boasts a median household income of $82,100 and a low unemployment rate of 3.8%. Most residents have at least a high school education, and commute times average just over 23 minutes, supporting a balanced and comfortable lifestyle.
Median Income:
$45,000
Household Income:
$82,100
Family Income:
$94,000
Per Capita Income:
$36,900
Income Male:
$52,000
Income Female:
$43,500
Poverty Rate:
7.9%
Non English Speakers:
6.8%
Rent:
$1,150
Unemployment Rate:
3.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.3%
Commute Time:
23.1 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
95.5%
Bachelors or More:
39.2%
Education
How are the schools in Forest, VA?
Forest offers quality education options, including top-rated public schools like Jefferson Forest High School and Forest Middle School, as well as private institutions such as Timberlake Christian Schools. Nearby colleges, including Liberty University just 8 miles away, provide ample opportunities for higher education.
Public Schools
Name:
Jefferson Forest High School
Street:
1 Cavalier Cir
Phone:
434-525-2674
Students:
1,330
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.6
Name:
Forest Middle School
Street:
100 Ashwood Dr
Phone:
434-525-6630
Students:
860
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.9
Private Schools
Name:
Timberlake Christian Schools
Street:
202 Horizon Dr
Phone:
434-237-5943
Students:
420
Colleges
Name:
Liberty University
City:
Lynchburg
State:
VA
Distance:
8 miles
Students:
90,000
Name:
University of Lynchburg
City:
Lynchburg
State:
VA
Distance:
10 miles
Students:
2,800
Healthcare
Forest residents have convenient access to major hospitals like Centra Bedford Memorial and Centra Lynchburg General, both offering emergency services. With 2.1 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 91% health insurance coverage, healthcare is both accessible and comprehensive.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Centra Bedford Memorial Hospital
Address:
1613 Oakwood St, Bedford, VA 24523
Phone:
(540) 586-2441
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Centra Lynchburg General Hospital
Address:
1901 Tate Springs Rd, Lynchburg, VA 24501
Phone:
(434) 200-3000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.4%
Health Care Index:
78.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Forest, VA?
The housing market in Forest is strong, with a median home price of $343,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate of 84.3%. Home values have appreciated by 4.3% over the past year, and rental vacancies remain low, making this a stable and desirable area for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$343,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,150
Owner Occupied Rate:
84.3%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
5.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.3%
New Construction Rate:
2.3%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Forest residents are served by the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, offering comprehensive services at its Richmond headquarters and online. The DMV provides vehicle registration, licensing, and driver services for all Virginia residents.
State:
Virginia
Department:
Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
2300 W. Broad Street, Richmond, VA 23269
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.