Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Pennington Gap, VA
Considering a move to Pennington Gap, VA? With a small-town population of 1,690, Pennington Gap offers affordable living: median home prices are just $96,000 and average rents around $600. Commute times are quick at about 21 minutes, and the area enjoys 60% sunny days annually. Violent crime is low at 185 per 100K, and residents benefit from access to a local hospital and scenic Appalachian surroundings. While education attainment is below the national average, friendly neighborhoods and a relaxed pace make this a welcoming choice for those seeking value and a close-knit community.
Demographics - Pennington Gap, VA
Demographics - Pennington Gap, VA
Pennington Gap is a small, close-knit community of 1,690 residents, with a predominantly White population and a median age of 44.2 years. The gender ratio is balanced, and non-English speakers make up just over 2% of locals, creating a friendly and familiar atmosphere ideal for those seeking a quiet, rural lifestyle.
Population:
1,690
Density:
1,040 per sq mi
Median Age:
44.2
Gender Ratio:
93 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.1%

Ethnic Composition
White:
95.5%
Black:
1.2%
Asian:
0.6%
Others:
2.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Pennington Gap, VA?
Pennington Gap offers a very affordable cost of living, with median home values at $96,000 and average rent around $600 per month. The overall cost of living index is significantly below the U.S. average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious families and retirees.
Median House Value:
$96,000
Gross Rent:
$600
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$980
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$900
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$350
State Taxes:
Low:
2.0%
|
High:
5.75%
Cost Of Living Index:
72.3
Grocery:
93.4
Housing:
40.8
Utilities:
97.7
Transportation:
71.9
Health Care:
85.2
Miscellaneous:
73.5
Crime
Is Pennington Gap, VA a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Pennington Gap are relatively low, with just 185 violent crimes per 100,000 residents and a 1 in 540 chance of experiencing violent crime. Property crime occurs at a higher rate, but overall, the town is considered safe compared to many areas nationwide.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
185
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,900
Crime Index:
2,085
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 540
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 53
Weather
What is the weather like in Pennington Gap, VA year-round?
Residents enjoy four distinct seasons, featuring mild winters with lows around 26°F and warm summers reaching up to 86°F. The area receives about 44.6 inches of annual rainfall and has 60% sunny days, making it appealing for those who appreciate varied weather and outdoor activities.

Winter
Min:
26°F
Max:
44°F

Spring
Min:
43°F
Max:
70°F

Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
86°F

Fall
Min:
44°F
Max:
71°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
44.6 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
60%
Neighbors
Local households have modest incomes, with a median of $33,400 and a notable poverty rate of 31.6%. Most residents commute about 21 minutes to work, and public transportation use is minimal, reflecting the town's rural character and reliance on personal vehicles.
Median Income:
$21,800
Household Income:
$33,400
Family Income:
$41,200
Per Capita Income:
$17,500
Income Male:
$31,800
Income Female:
$24,900
Poverty Rate:
31.6%
Non English Speakers:
2.1%
Rent:
$600
Unemployment Rate:
5.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
21.4 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
69.5%
Bachelors or More:
10.3%
Education
How are the schools in Pennington Gap, VA?
Public schools in Pennington Gap offer small class sizes, and higher education is accessible through nearby colleges like Mountain Empire Community College just 16 miles away. While local educational attainment is below national averages, families benefit from a supportive learning environment and regional college options.

Public Schools
Name:
Lee High School
Street:
200 Generals Ln
Phone:
276-346-0173
Students:
750
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.2
Name:
Elk Knob Elementary School
Street:
18018 Veterans Memorial Hwy
Phone:
276-546-4443
Students:
320
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.6

Colleges
Name:
Mountain Empire Community College
City:
Big Stone Gap
State:
VA
Distance:
16 miles
Students:
3,300
Name:
Lincoln Memorial University
City:
Harrogate
State:
TN
Distance:
26 miles
Students:
4,885
Healthcare
Healthcare needs are met by Lee County Community Hospital, which provides general and emergency services locally. With 1.2 physicians per 1,000 residents and 86.5% health insurance coverage, residents have reasonable access to basic medical care.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Lee County Community Hospital
Address:
127 Healthcare Dr, Pennington Gap, VA 24277
Phone:
(276) 546-5300
Type:
General & Emergency
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
86.5%
Health Care Index:
68.7
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Pennington Gap, VA?
The housing market in Pennington Gap is highly accessible, with a median home price of $96,000 and a 64.1% owner-occupancy rate. Rental options are available, and home values have appreciated modestly in the past year, offering opportunities for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$96,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$600
Owner Occupied Rate:
64.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
11.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.3%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
DMV services are conveniently provided through the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles at a local office on Riverbend Drive. Residents can access vehicle registration and licensing resources both in person and online for added convenience.
State:
Virginia
Department:
Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
205 Riverbend Dr, Suite A, Pennington Gap, VA 24277
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.