Brightwood, VA
Population 1,436 · Virginia
About Brightwood, VA
Brightwood is a small town located in Virginia with a population of 1,436 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $90,208 per year, which is 20% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 40.1 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Brightwood features a median home value of $300,000, which is 22% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Brightwood in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $0, 100% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 475 total housing units, 99% are owner-occupied (470 units) and 1% are renter-occupied (5 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Brightwood shows an unemployment rate of 3.7%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 3.3%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Brightwood have an average one-way commute time of 35 minutes.
Education & Demographics
21.3% of Brightwood residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 0.7% White, 2.7% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.3% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Brightwood, VA
Compared to national averages, Brightwood has a median household income of $90,208 (20% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $300,000, which is 22% above the national median. Monthly rent at $0 is 100% below the US average of $1,163. Within Virginia, Brightwood's income is 3% above the state average of $87,957, and home values are 8% below the state median of $327,514.
Why Live in Brightwood, VA?
Brightwood offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $90,208, well above the national average, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $0/month, and a low poverty rate of 3.3%, better than the national average.
Brightwood has a population of 1,436 with a median age of 40.1 years. Compare Brightwood with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Virginia.
Similar Cities Near Brightwood
Cities in Virginia with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Benns Church | 1,443 | $69,598 | $240,200 | Compare |
| Wattsville | 1,425 | $66,677 | $170,500 | Compare |
| Bowling Green | 1,455 | $69,352 | $307,100 | Compare |
| Basye | 1,416 | $69,881 | $272,500 | Compare |
| Boswell's Corner | 1,459 | $0 | $0 | Compare |
| Union Hall | 1,468 | $95,556 | $607,000 | Compare |
| Lyndhurst | 1,401 | $74,405 | $233,400 | Compare |
| Clintwood | 1,478 | $44,985 | $131,400 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Virginia
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Brightwood With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Brightwood
What is the population of Brightwood, VA?
The population of Brightwood, VA is 1,436 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Virginia.
What is the median household income in Brightwood?
The median household income in Brightwood, VA is $90,208 per year, which is 20% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Brightwood?
The median home value in Brightwood, VA is $300,000, which is 22% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Brightwood?
The median monthly rent in Brightwood, VA is $0, which is 100% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Brightwood?
The unemployment rate in Brightwood, VA is 3.7%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Brightwood, VA a good place to live?
Brightwood offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,436 and a median age of 40.1, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Brightwood, VA?
21.3% of residents in Brightwood aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Brightwood?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Brightwood, VA: median home value is $300,000 (22% above national), median rent is $0/month, and median household income is $90,208. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.3x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Brightwood?
The poverty rate in Brightwood, VA is 3.3%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Brightwood, VA?
Brightwood's population is 0.7% White, 2.7% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.3% two or more races. 0.3% of residents are foreign-born.