Dryden, VA
Population 545 · Virginia
About Dryden, VA
Dryden is a small community located in Virginia with a population of 545 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $49,750 per year, which is 34% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 36.9 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Dryden features a median home value of $127,000, which is 48% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Dryden one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $0, 100% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 438 total housing units, 73% are owner-occupied (198 units) and 27% are renter-occupied (72 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Dryden shows an unemployment rate of 0.0%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 22.2%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Dryden have an average one-way commute time of 22.2 minutes.
Education & Demographics
19.4% of Dryden 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 1.5% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Dryden, VA
Compared to national averages, Dryden has a median household income of $49,750 (34% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $127,000, which is 48% below the national median. Monthly rent at $0 is 100% below the US average of $1,163. Within Virginia, Dryden's income is 43% below the state average of $87,957, and home values are 61% below the state median of $327,514.
Why Live in Dryden, VA?
Dryden offers affordable housing with a median home value of $127,000, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $0/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 0.0%. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 22.2 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($49,750) that falls below the national average. However, Dryden’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Dryden has a population of 545 with a median age of 36.9 years. Compare Dryden with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Virginia.
Similar Cities Near Dryden
Cities in Virginia with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Allison Gap | 544 | $24,052 | $69,600 | Compare |
| Cheriton | 548 | $37,125 | $0 | Compare |
| Dillwyn | 549 | $56,143 | $165,000 | Compare |
| Hot Springs | 540 | $101,964 | $254,400 | Compare |
| Rose Hill CDP (Lee County), Virginia | 551 | $66,458 | $108,000 | Compare |
| Savageville | 552 | $0 | $0 | Compare |
| The University of Virginia's College at Wise | 538 | $0 | $0 | Compare |
| Haysi | 537 | $28,750 | $80,000 | 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 Dryden With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Dryden
What is the population of Dryden, VA?
The population of Dryden, VA is 545 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in Virginia.
What is the median household income in Dryden?
The median household income in Dryden, VA is $49,750 per year, which is 34% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Dryden?
The median home value in Dryden, VA is $127,000, which is 48% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Dryden?
The median monthly rent in Dryden, VA is $0, which is 100% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Dryden?
The unemployment rate in Dryden, VA is 0.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Dryden, VA a good place to live?
Dryden offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 545 and a median age of 36.9, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Dryden, VA?
19.4% of residents in Dryden 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 Dryden?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Dryden, VA: median home value is $127,000 (48% below national), median rent is $0/month, and median household income is $49,750. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.6x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Dryden?
The poverty rate in Dryden, VA is 22.2%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Dryden, VA?
Dryden's population is 1.5% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.