Forest, VA
Population 12,476 · Virginia
About Forest, VA
Forest is a mid-sized city in Virginia with a population of 12,476 residents. The median household income is $78,825 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Forest is 42.1 years.
Housing in Forest has a median home value of $319,100 and median monthly rent of $1,112. Of the 5,193 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 3,815 owner-occupied and 1,275 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Forest is 3.9% and the poverty rate is 7.5%. 48.4% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 21.5 minutes.
Cost of Living in Forest, VA
Compared to national averages, Forest has a median household income of $78,825 (5% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $319,100, which is 30% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,112 is 4% below the US average of $1,163. Within Virginia, Forest's income is 10% below the state average of $87,957, and home values are 3% below the state median of $327,514.
Why Live in Forest, VA?
Forest offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $78,825, well above the national average, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,112/month, and a well-educated community where 48.4% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 7.5%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 21.5 minutes.
Forest has a population of 12,476 with a median age of 42.1 years. Compare Forest with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Virginia.
Similar Cities Near Forest
Cities in Virginia with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cascades | 12,489 | $166,023 | $617,100 | Compare |
| Newington Forest | 12,434 | $147,650 | $586,400 | Compare |
| Poquoson | 12,556 | $120,919 | $403,000 | Compare |
| Lansdowne | 12,603 | $180,379 | $753,600 | Compare |
| Manchester | 12,347 | $72,465 | $286,900 | Compare |
| Fairfax Station | 12,298 | $212,128 | $863,400 | Compare |
| Timberlake | 12,833 | $68,833 | $228,200 | Compare |
| Lakeside | 12,845 | $69,695 | $271,400 | 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 Forest
What is the population of Forest, VA?
The population of Forest, VA is 12,476 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Forest?
The median household income in Forest, VA is $78,825 per year.
What is the median home value in Forest?
The median home value in Forest, VA is $319,100.
What is the average rent in Forest?
The median monthly rent in Forest, VA is $1,112.
What is the unemployment rate in Forest?
The unemployment rate in Forest, VA is 3.9%.