Bristol, VA
Population 17,024 · Virginia
About Bristol, VA
Bristol is a mid-sized city in Virginia with a population of 17,024 residents. The median household income is $44,706 per year, which is below the national average. The median age in Bristol is 42.6 years.
Housing in Bristol has a median home value of $168,700 and median monthly rent of $775. Of the 8,654 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 4,627 owner-occupied and 2,700 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Bristol is 4.4% and the poverty rate is 18.3%. 23.9% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 18.4 minutes.
Cost of Living in Bristol, VA
Compared to national averages, Bristol has a median household income of $44,706 (41% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $168,700, which is 31% below the national median. Monthly rent at $775 is 33% below the US average of $1,163. Within Virginia, Bristol's income is 49% below the state average of $87,957, and home values are 48% below the state median of $327,514.
Why Live in Bristol, VA?
Bristol offers affordable housing with a median home value of $168,700, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $775/month, and short commute times averaging just 18.4 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($44,706) that falls below the national average. However, Bristol’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Bristol has a population of 17,024 with a median age of 42.6 years. Compare Bristol with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Virginia.
Similar Cities Near Bristol
Cities in Virginia with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hollins | 17,005 | $73,588 | $227,900 | Compare |
| Manassas Park | 16,923 | $100,668 | $381,200 | Compare |
| Bon Air | 17,302 | $97,620 | $329,200 | Compare |
| Bull Run CDP (Prince William County), Virginia | 16,688 | $86,487 | $378,800 | Compare |
| Glen Allen | 16,630 | $96,085 | $338,000 | Compare |
| Kingstowne | 17,436 | $150,114 | $613,300 | Compare |
| Burke Centre | 17,447 | $159,932 | $615,400 | Compare |
| Idylwood | 17,469 | $118,443 | $708,400 | 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Bristol
What is the population of Bristol, VA?
The population of Bristol, VA is 17,024 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Bristol?
The median household income in Bristol, VA is $44,706 per year.
What is the median home value in Bristol?
The median home value in Bristol, VA is $168,700.
What is the average rent in Bristol?
The median monthly rent in Bristol, VA is $775.
What is the unemployment rate in Bristol?
The unemployment rate in Bristol, VA is 4.4%.