Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Wachapreague, VA
Planning a move to Wachapreague, VA? With a small, welcoming population of 215 and a relaxed coastal lifestyle, the town boasts affordable median home prices around $192,000 and average rents near $915. Crime rates are low, and residents benefit from short 25-minute commutes and 61% sunny days each year. While local amenities are limited, quality schools and healthcare are accessible nearby, making Wachapreague a peaceful spot for those seeking small-town charm and affordability on Virginia’s scenic Eastern Shore.
Demographics - Wachapreague, VA
Demographics - Wachapreague, VA
Wachapreague is a small, close-knit community of just 215 residents, notable for its predominantly older population with a median age of 58.3. The town is primarily White (92.5%), with a nearly even gender balance, and features a quiet, laid-back coastal atmosphere ideal for those seeking a slower pace of life.
Population:
215
Density:
420 per sq mi
Median Age:
58.3
Gender Ratio:
95 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.2%

Ethnic Composition
White:
92.5%
Black:
4.5%
Asian:
0.5%
Others:
2.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Wachapreague, VA?
With a cost of living index of 84.7, Wachapreague offers affordability well below the national average. Typical home values hover around $192,000 and average monthly rent is $915, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious movers.
Median House Value:
$192,000
Gross Rent:
$915
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$135
Auto Insurance:
$1,140
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,105
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$410
State Taxes:
Low:
2.0%
|
High:
5.75%
Cost Of Living Index:
84.7
Grocery:
96.2
Housing:
70.3
Utilities:
97.1
Transportation:
81.4
Health Care:
92.8
Miscellaneous:
93.5
Crime
Is Wachapreague, VA a safe place to live?
Wachapreague maintains a low crime rate, with violent crimes at just 110 per 100,000 residents and a property crime risk that remains relatively modest. Residents can expect a safe environment, enhancing the town's appeal for families and retirees.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
110
Property Crimes Per 100k:
980
Crime Index:
1,090
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 900
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 102
Weather
What is the weather like in Wachapreague, VA year-round?
Residents enjoy mild coastal weather, with winter lows around 31°F and summer highs reaching 85°F. The area receives about 44 inches of annual rainfall and boasts 61% sunny days, providing plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities.

Winter
Min:
31°F
Max:
48°F

Spring
Min:
50°F
Max:
70°F

Summer
Min:
68°F
Max:
85°F

Fall
Min:
53°F
Max:
72°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
43.7 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
61%
Neighbors
The local community has a median household income of $46,800 and a modest poverty rate of 13.1%. Most residents commute about 26 minutes to work, and the area benefits from a strong sense of neighborliness and stability.
Median Income:
$31,400
Household Income:
$46,800
Family Income:
$55,200
Per Capita Income:
$29,100
Income Male:
$36,800
Income Female:
$25,500
Poverty Rate:
13.1%
Non English Speakers:
3.2%
Rent:
$915
Unemployment Rate:
5.9%
Public Transport Usage:
0.0%
Commute Time:
25.7 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
85.6%
Bachelors or More:
19.8%
Education
How are the schools in Wachapreague, VA?
Families in Wachapreague have access to nearby public schools such as Accawmacke Elementary, which features a student-teacher ratio of 15:1, and higher education options like Eastern Shore Community College just 15 miles away. While local options are limited, quality educational resources are readily accessible within the region.

Public Schools
Name:
Accawmacke Elementary School
Street:
26230 Drummondtown Rd, Onley, VA 23418
Phone:
757-787-8013
Students:
600
Student Teacher Ratio:
15:1

Colleges
Name:
Eastern Shore Community College
City:
Melfa
State:
VA
Distance:
15 miles
Students:
1,200
Healthcare
Wachapreague is served by nearby Riverside Shore Memorial Hospital, providing comprehensive emergency and surgical care. With a high health insurance coverage rate of 91.8% and 1.6 physicians per 1,000 residents, access to healthcare is reliable for this 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:
1.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.8%
Health Care Index:
77.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Wachapreague, VA?
Homeownership is common in Wachapreague, where 73.5% of residents own their homes and the median home price is $192,000. The housing market is stable, with a 3.5% annual appreciation rate and relatively low foreclosure and vacancy rates.
Median Home Price:
$192,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$915
Owner Occupied Rate:
73.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.5%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
Residents handle their vehicle and licensing needs through the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, with statewide resources easily accessible online or in Richmond. Services are straightforward and reflect state standards for registration and licensing.
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.