Wise, VA
Population 2,940 · Virginia
About Wise, VA
Wise is a small town located in Virginia with a population of 2,940 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $44,234 per year, which is 41% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 33.1 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Wise features a median home value of $118,100, which is 52% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Wise one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $782, 33% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,478 total housing units, 68% are owner-occupied (867 units) and 32% are renter-occupied (408 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Wise shows an unemployment rate of 6.4%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 21.3%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Wise have an average one-way commute time of 17.9 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
29.0% of Wise residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 0.9% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 3.1% of the population being foreign-born.
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.
Compare Wise With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Wise
What is the population of Wise, VA?
The population of Wise, VA is 2,940 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 Wise?
The median household income in Wise, VA is $44,234 per year, which is 41% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Wise?
The median home value in Wise, VA is $118,100, which is 52% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Wise?
The median monthly rent in Wise, VA is $782, which is 33% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Wise?
The unemployment rate in Wise, VA is 6.4%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Wise, VA a good place to live?
Wise offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 2,940 and a median age of 33.1, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Wise, VA?
29.0% of residents in Wise 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 Wise?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Wise, VA: median home value is $118,100 (52% below national), median rent is $782/month, and median household income is $44,234. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.7x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Wise?
The poverty rate in Wise, VA is 21.3%, 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 Wise, VA?
Wise's population is 0.9% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 3.1% of residents are foreign-born.