Wise, VA
Population 2,940 · Virginia
About Wise, VA
Wise is a small community in Virginia with a population of 2,940 residents. The median household income is $44,234 per year, which is below the national average. The median age in Wise is 33.1 years.
Housing in Wise has a median home value of $118,100 and median monthly rent of $782. Of the 1,478 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 867 owner-occupied and 408 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Wise is 6.4% and the poverty rate is 21.3%. 29.0% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 17.9 minutes.
Cost of Living in Wise, VA
Compared to national averages, Wise has a median household income of $44,234 (41% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $118,100, which is 52% below the national median. Monthly rent at $782 is 33% below the US average of $1,163. Within Virginia, Wise's income is 50% below the state average of $87,957, and home values are 64% below the state median of $327,514.
Why Live in Wise, VA?
Wise offers affordable housing with a median home value of $118,100, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $782/month, and short commute times averaging just 17.9 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($44,234) that falls below the national average. However, Wise’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Wise has a population of 2,940 with a median age of 33.1 years. Compare Wise with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Virginia.
Similar Cities Near Wise
Cities in Virginia with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grottoes | 2,926 | $84,508 | $267,500 | Compare |
| Merrimac | 2,955 | $55,202 | $73,400 | Compare |
| Elkton | 2,973 | $61,385 | $232,300 | Compare |
| Timberville | 2,998 | $56,837 | $211,500 | Compare |
| Hillsville | 2,869 | $62,861 | $132,600 | Compare |
| Pearisburg | 2,864 | $72,924 | $160,200 | Compare |
| Arcola | 2,858 | $133,992 | $602,700 | Compare |
| Windsor | 2,808 | $65,321 | $248,200 | 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 Wise
What is the population of Wise, VA?
The population of Wise, VA is 2,940 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Wise?
The median household income in Wise, VA is $44,234 per year.
What is the median home value in Wise?
The median home value in Wise, VA is $118,100.
What is the average rent in Wise?
The median monthly rent in Wise, VA is $782.
What is the unemployment rate in Wise?
The unemployment rate in Wise, VA is 6.4%.