Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Oyster, VA
Considering a move to Oyster, VA? This charming coastal village of about 250 residents offers affordable housing with median home prices around $265,000 and average rents near $950. Enjoy a peaceful, tight-knit community, low violent crime (137 per 100K), and short commute times averaging 22 minutes. While amenities and schools are limited, the area’s mild climate, scenic setting, and access to healthcare in nearby towns make Oyster a great fit for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty on Virginia’s Eastern Shore.
Demographics - Oyster, VA
Demographics - Oyster, VA
Oyster, VA is a small, close-knit community of about 250 residents with a median age of 58, reflecting a mature population. The town is predominantly White (82%) with a balanced gender ratio and a very low percentage of non-English speakers. Its relaxed pace and friendly atmosphere appeal to those seeking a quieter lifestyle.
Population:
250
Density:
300 per sq mi
Median Age:
58.2
Gender Ratio:
95 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
82.0%
Black:
13.0%
Asian:
1.0%
Others:
4.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Oyster, VA?
Living in Oyster is affordable, with a median home value of $265,000 and average rents around $950. The overall cost of living index sits slightly below the national average, making daily expenses and housing accessible for most residents. Utilities are a bit higher, but groceries, transportation, and healthcare costs remain reasonable.
Median House Value:
$265,000
Gross Rent:
$950
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$145
Auto Insurance:
$1,080
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,260
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$480
State Taxes:
Low:
2.0%
|
High:
5.75%
Cost Of Living Index:
97.5
Grocery:
96.0
Housing:
84.0
Utilities:
109.0
Transportation:
93.0
Health Care:
98.0
Miscellaneous:
94.0
Crime
Is Oyster, VA a safe place to live?
Oyster experiences low crime, with just 137 violent crimes per 100,000 people and a 1 in 730 chance of being affected by violent crime. Property crime rates are moderate, offering peace of mind for residents. The overall crime index suggests a safe and welcoming environment.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
137
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,150
Crime Index:
1,287
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 730
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 87
Weather
What is the weather like in Oyster, VA year-round?
Residents enjoy a mild coastal climate with warm summers reaching highs of 87°F and winters rarely dipping below 32°F. The area receives around 45.5 inches of rainfall annually and boasts 62% sunny days, making it pleasant for outdoor activities year-round. Seasonal changes are gentle, enhancing the town's natural beauty.

Winter
Min:
32°F
Max:
48°F

Spring
Min:
50°F
Max:
72°F

Summer
Min:
68°F
Max:
87°F

Fall
Min:
53°F
Max:
74°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
45.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
Oyster’s residents have a median household income of $52,500 and a family income of $61,000, with a poverty rate of 14.2%. Most neighbors commute about 22 minutes to work, and public transportation usage is very low. The community is welcoming, with a strong high school graduation rate and a laid-back coastal vibe.
Median Income:
$34,000
Household Income:
$52,500
Family Income:
$61,000
Per Capita Income:
$27,800
Income Male:
$39,000
Income Female:
$29,500
Poverty Rate:
14.2%
Non English Speakers:
2.5%
Rent:
$950
Unemployment Rate:
5.7%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
22.3 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
86.7%
Bachelors or More:
22.0%
Education
How are the schools in Oyster, VA?
Oyster offers access to Kiptopeke Elementary School nearby, which maintains a favorable student-teacher ratio, supporting personalized learning. While local education options are limited, Eastern Shore Community College is just 22 miles away for higher education and workforce training. Families benefit from a supportive educational environment and accessible regional resources.

Public Schools
Name:
Kiptopeke Elementary School
Street:
24023 Fairview Rd
Phone:
757-331-1660
Students:
320
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.5

Colleges
Name:
Eastern Shore Community College
City:
Melfa
State:
VA
Distance:
22 miles
Students:
1,250
Healthcare
Oyster residents benefit from proximity to Riverside Shore Memorial Hospital in nearby Onancock, offering general and emergency care. With 1.8 physicians per 1,000 people and over 90% health insurance coverage, access to healthcare is reliable. The area’s healthcare index reflects solid local services for a small town.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Riverside Shore Memorial Hospital
Address:
20480 Market St, Onancock, VA 23417
Phone:
(757) 302-2100
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.8
Health Insurance Coverage:
90.5%
Health Care Index:
78.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Oyster, VA?
Oyster’s housing market is stable, with a median home price of $265,000 and an average rent for a two-bedroom at $950. About two-thirds of homes are owner-occupied, reflecting investment in the community, and home values appreciate steadily at 4.2% per year. Rental vacancy and foreclosure rates remain low, indicating steady demand.
Median Home Price:
$265,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$950
Owner Occupied Rate:
66.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Oyster residents are served by the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, with the main office located in Richmond. DMV services, including vehicle registration and licensing, are accessible online or by phone for convenience. Virginia’s DMV ensures residents can easily manage their driving and vehicle needs.
State:
Virginia
Department:
Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
2300 W. Broad St., 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.