Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Shortt Gap, VA
Considering a move to Shortt Gap, VA? This small, friendly community of about 250 residents offers affordable living, with median home prices around $89,000 and average rents at $650. Enjoy a quiet, low-crime environment, short 24-minute commutes, and scenic, sunny weather with 62% sunny days each year. While amenities are limited, local schools and healthcare options are accessible, and the Appalachian setting is perfect for those seeking rural charm and affordability.
Demographics - Shortt Gap, VA
Demographics - Shortt Gap, VA
Shortt Gap, VA is a small, close-knit community with a population of approximately 250 residents and a median age of 44.2 years. The area is predominantly White, with a nearly even gender ratio and a low percentage of non-English speakers, making it a welcoming environment for newcomers. With a low population density, the town offers a peaceful, rural lifestyle.
Population:
250
Density:
60 per sq mi
Median Age:
44.2
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.4%
Ethnic Composition
White:
94.0%
Black:
2.0%
Asian:
0.5%
Others:
3.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Shortt Gap, VA?
Living in Shortt Gap is very affordable, with a median home value of $89,000 and average rents around $650 per month. The cost of living index is well below the national average, especially in housing, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious families. Utilities and essential expenses remain moderate, providing good value for residents.
Median House Value:
$89,000
Gross Rent:
$650
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$122
Auto Insurance:
$1,120
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$815
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$310
State Taxes:
Low:
2.0%
|
High:
5.75%
Cost Of Living Index:
79.4
Grocery:
93.0
Housing:
49.0
Utilities:
98.2
Transportation:
81.0
Health Care:
82.3
Miscellaneous:
87.1
Crime
Is Shortt Gap, VA a safe place to live?
Shortt Gap experiences low crime rates, with violent crime being notably rare and property crime well below urban averages. Residents enjoy a high sense of safety, with the chance of experiencing a violent crime at just 1 in 820. This peaceful environment is ideal for those seeking a secure small-town lifestyle.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
122
Property Crimes Per 100k:
820
Crime Index:
942
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 820
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 122
Weather
What is the weather like in Shortt Gap, VA year-round?
The area enjoys four distinct seasons, with mild summers averaging highs around 83°F and winters that are cool but not harsh. With 62% sunny days and about 43.5 inches of annual rainfall, residents experience a pleasant mix of sunshine and precipitation. The climate is well-suited for those who appreciate varied but generally moderate weather.
Winter
Min:
25°F
Max:
41°F
Spring
Min:
46°F
Max:
68°F
Summer
Min:
61°F
Max:
83°F
Fall
Min:
48°F
Max:
69°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
43.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
Shortt Gap households have a median income of $40,600, and the community is characterized by a strong sense of neighborliness. Most residents commute about 24 minutes for work, with unemployment and poverty rates slightly above the national average. Educational attainment is solid, with nearly 78% of adults holding at least a high school diploma.
Median Income:
$32,000
Household Income:
$40,600
Family Income:
$48,200
Per Capita Income:
$19,100
Income Male:
$36,000
Income Female:
$27,800
Poverty Rate:
16.7%
Non English Speakers:
2.4%
Rent:
$650
Unemployment Rate:
5.1%
Public Transport Usage:
0.0%
Commute Time:
23.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
77.8%
Bachelors or More:
11.2%
Education
How are the schools in Shortt Gap, VA?
Families in Shortt Gap have access to local public schools, including Grundy High School and Riverview Elementary/Middle School, both offering low student-to-teacher ratios. While there are no private schools, higher education opportunities are available within a short drive at Southwest Virginia Community College and the University of Virginia's College at Wise. The educational environment is supportive and accessible for students of all ages.
Public Schools
Name:
Grundy High School
Street:
1300 Golden Wave Dr
Phone:
276-935-2511
Students:
480
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.5
Name:
Riverview Elementary/Middle School
Street:
27382 Riverside Dr
Phone:
276-935-1613
Students:
830
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.2
Colleges
Name:
Southwest Virginia Community College
City:
Cedar Bluff
State:
VA
Distance:
13 miles
Students:
3,000
Name:
University of Virginia's College at Wise
City:
Wise
State:
VA
Distance:
52 miles
Students:
2,000
Healthcare
Residents have access to healthcare services through Buchanan General Hospital, which provides emergency and general care nearby. The area maintains a good physician-to-population ratio and nearly 90% of residents have health insurance coverage. Healthcare costs are manageable, contributing to overall affordability.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Buchanan General Hospital
Address:
1535 Slate Creek Rd, Grundy, VA 24614
Phone:
(276) 935-1000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.6%
Health Care Index:
69.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Shortt Gap, VA?
The housing market in Shortt Gap is stable and affordable, with a median home price of $89,000 and 74.5% owner occupancy. Renters can find two-bedroom units for around $650, and the area sees modest home appreciation. Vacancy and foreclosure rates remain low, indicating a steady demand for housing.
Median Home Price:
$89,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$650
Owner Occupied Rate:
74.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
10.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.6%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
Residents are served by the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, with comprehensive services available online and at the Richmond headquarters. The DMV provides convenient access to licensing, vehicle registration, and other essential needs for drivers in Shortt Gap. For more information, residents can visit the official website or call the main office.
State:
Virginia
Department:
Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
2300 W Broad St, Richmond, VA 23220
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.