Independence, VA
Population 1,144 · Virginia
About Independence, VA
Independence is a small town located in Virginia with a population of 1,144 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $36,250 per year, which is 52% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 58 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Independence features a median home value of $115,700, which is 53% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Independence one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $762, 34% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 559 total housing units, 62% are owner-occupied (283 units) and 38% are renter-occupied (173 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Independence shows an unemployment rate of 9.5%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 17.6%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Independence have an average one-way commute time of 20.3 minutes.
Education & Demographics
18.1% of Independence 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 0.8% White, 1.3% Hispanic or Latino, 1.0% Black or African American, and 0.5% Asian residents, with 0.4% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Independence, VA
Compared to national averages, Independence has a median household income of $36,250 (52% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $115,700, which is 53% below the national median. Monthly rent at $762 is 34% below the US average of $1,163. Within Virginia, Independence's income is 59% below the state average of $87,957, and home values are 65% below the state median of $327,514.
Why Live in Independence, VA?
Independence offers affordable housing with a median home value of $115,700, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $762/month, and short commute times averaging just 20.3 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($36,250) that falls below the national average. However, Independence’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Independence has a population of 1,144 with a median age of 58 years. Compare Independence with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Virginia.
Similar Cities Near Independence
Cities in Virginia with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathews | 1,145 | $53,108 | $178,600 | Compare |
| Innovation | 1,139 | $0 | $0 | Compare |
| Lawrenceville | 1,149 | $39,833 | $110,700 | Compare |
| Maurertown | 1,138 | $89,375 | $263,400 | Compare |
| Emory | 1,135 | $62,500 | $203,800 | Compare |
| Jolivue | 1,135 | $38,738 | $243,900 | Compare |
| McGaheysville | 1,155 | $67,125 | $302,300 | Compare |
| Cedar Bluff | 1,156 | $40,179 | $123,300 | 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 Independence With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Independence
What is the population of Independence, VA?
The population of Independence, VA is 1,144 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 Independence?
The median household income in Independence, VA is $36,250 per year, which is 52% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Independence?
The median home value in Independence, VA is $115,700, which is 53% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Independence?
The median monthly rent in Independence, VA is $762, which is 34% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Independence?
The unemployment rate in Independence, VA is 9.5%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Independence, VA a good place to live?
Independence offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,144 and a median age of 58, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Independence, VA?
18.1% of residents in Independence 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 Independence?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Independence, VA: median home value is $115,700 (53% below national), median rent is $762/month, and median household income is $36,250. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.2x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Independence?
The poverty rate in Independence, VA is 17.6%, 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 Independence, VA?
Independence's population is 0.8% White, 1.3% Hispanic or Latino, 1.0% Black or African American, 0.5% Asian, and 4.3% two or more races. 0.4% of residents are foreign-born.