Harriston, VA
Population 1,252 · Virginia
About Harriston, VA
Harriston is a small town located in Virginia with a population of 1,252 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $91,625 per year, which is 22% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 40.9 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Harriston features a median home value of $149,100, which is 39% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Harriston in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $986, 15% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 449 total housing units, 78% are owner-occupied (352 units) and 22% are renter-occupied (97 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Harriston 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 6.9%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Harriston have an average one-way commute time of 35.6 minutes, suggesting many residents commute to jobs in a nearby metro area.
Education & Demographics
6.5% of Harriston 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 0.0% White, 8.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 2.2% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Harriston, VA
Compared to national averages, Harriston has a median household income of $91,625 (22% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $149,100, which is 39% below the national median. Monthly rent at $986 is 15% below the US average of $1,163. Within Virginia, Harriston's income is 4% above the state average of $87,957, and home values are 54% below the state median of $327,514.
Why Live in Harriston, VA?
Harriston offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $91,625, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $149,100, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $986/month. Additionally, the city features a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 0.0%, and a low poverty rate of 6.9%, better than the national average.
Harriston has a population of 1,252 with a median age of 40.9 years. Compare Harriston with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Virginia.
Similar Cities Near Harriston
Cities in Virginia with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Glasgow | 1,253 | $50,625 | $117,100 | Compare |
| Penhook | 1,253 | $99,176 | $476,500 | Compare |
| Bracey | 1,243 | $68,333 | $191,100 | Compare |
| Buchanan | 1,271 | $52,474 | $201,900 | Compare |
| Brookneal | 1,275 | $45,909 | $115,000 | Compare |
| Gretna | 1,275 | $36,023 | $140,900 | Compare |
| Rustburg | 1,276 | $70,771 | $238,900 | Compare |
| Cape Charles | 1,278 | $51,250 | $589,000 | 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 Harriston With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Harriston
What is the population of Harriston, VA?
The population of Harriston, VA is 1,252 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 Harriston?
The median household income in Harriston, VA is $91,625 per year, which is 22% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Harriston?
The median home value in Harriston, VA is $149,100, which is 39% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Harriston?
The median monthly rent in Harriston, VA is $986, which is 15% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Harriston?
The unemployment rate in Harriston, 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 Harriston, VA a good place to live?
Harriston offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 1,252 and a median age of 40.9, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Harriston, VA?
6.5% of residents in Harriston 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 Harriston?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Harriston, VA: median home value is $149,100 (39% below national), median rent is $986/month, and median household income is $91,625. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.6x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Harriston?
The poverty rate in Harriston, VA is 6.9%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Harriston, VA?
Harriston's population is 0.0% White, 8.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 2.2% Asian, and 9.3% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.