Virginia demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
8,705,170
0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$93,170/yr
2.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
3,684,756
0.8% year-over-year change

Virginia population

How many people live in Virginia

Virginia is home to 8,705,170 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.4% of Virginia locals are male, and 50.6% are female.

Total population
8,705,170
0.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.4%
4,300,735
Female
50.6%
4,404,435
Value Percent YoY change
Male 4,300,735 49.4% 0.5%
Female 4,404,435 50.6% 0.6%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Virginia is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.9% are children under 15, then 13.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.1% of the population, while another 25.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 16.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
39
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.9%
15 to 24
13.1%
25 to 44
27.1%
45 to 64
25.3%
Over 65
16.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,556,162 17.9% -0.5%
15 to 24 1,141,330 13.1% 0.5%
25 to 44 2,355,204 27.1% 0.8%
45 to 64 2,198,731 25.3% -0.6%
Over 65 1,453,743 16.7% 3.1%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Virginia, 84.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 9.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 5.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 60.2% of locals are Caucasian, 18.6% are African American and 6.9% have Asian roots. Another 0.4% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 4.4% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 9.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
84.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
9.5%
Non-citizens
5.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 7,378,726 84.8% 0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 830,748 9.5% 2.6%
Non-citizens 495,696 5.7% 0.9%
Racial breakdown
White
60.2%
Black or African American
18.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
6.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
9.5%
Other
4.4%
Value Percent
White 5,240,029 60.2%
Black or African American 1,616,256 18.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 30,986 0.4%
Asian 604,505 6.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 5,710 0.1%
Two or more races 823,611 9.5%
Other 384,073 4.4%

Households in Virginia

A peek inside Virginia households

Virginia has 3,365,732 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 64.8% are families, while the remaining 35.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
3,365,732
1.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
1,184,257
Family households
2,181,475
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,184,257 35.2% 2.1%
Family households 2,181,475 64.8% 0.7%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Virginia

The housing landscape of Virginia

Virginia's housing consists of 3,684,756 units, with 61.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 11.3% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 4.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
3,684,756
0.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 2,256,932 61.2%
1 unit, attached 417,697 11.3%
2 units 60,093 1.6%
3 or 4 units 106,039 2.9%
5 to 9 units 163,814 4.4%
10 to 19 units 192,765 5.2%
20 to 49 units 81,372 2.2%
50 or more units 246,085 6.7%
Mobile home 158,497 4.3%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 1,462 0%
Homes built since 2020
61,023
74.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Virginia

In Virginia, the median construction year is 1984. About 7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 14.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 9.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 259,275 7% 0.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 153,664 4.2% 0.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 296,321 8% -0.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 367,862 10% -0.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 526,245 14.3% -1.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 580,863 15.8% -0.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 525,903 14.3% -1.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 548,525 14.9% 1.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 365,075 9.9% 5.2%
Built in 2020 or later 61,023 1.7% 74.9%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Virginia occupancy rates

Out of the 3,365,732 occupied housing units in Virginia, 67.3% are owner-occupied, while 32.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
3,365,732
1.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,099,123
Owner occupied
2,266,609
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,099,123 32.7% 0.7%
Owner occupied 2,266,609 67.3% 1.4%
Unoccupied housing units
8.7%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Virginia housing costs

Housing costs in Virginia come to a median of $1,565 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,579.

Median housing costs per month
$1,565/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Virginia
$1,579/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Virginia

Virginia education at a glance

About 30.5% of the population in Virginia went to high school, while 19.7% pursued college studies. Another 7.5% earned an associate degree and 22.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 16.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 226,187 3.3% 1.1%
High school diploma 2,080,018 30.5% 0.2%
College diploma 1,341,154 19.7% -1.8%
Associate degree 511,429 7.5% 0.8%
Bachelor's degree 1,532,403 22.5% 2.4%
Graduate degree 1,123,146 16.5% 2.8%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Virginia

How much people earn in Virginia

The average annual household income in Virginia was $128,260 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $93,170, reflecting a +2.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Virginia
$128,260/year
2.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in Virginia
$93,170/year
2.4% year-over-year change

Virginia income by age

In Virginia, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $101,838. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $115,694 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $49,037, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $66,103 in earnings. Overall, 90.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $49,037 4.5%
25 - 44 $101,838 3.2%
45 - 64 $115,694 2.9%
Over 65 $66,103 1.8%
Above poverty level
7,549,603
Below poverty level
825,797
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 7,549,603 90.1% 0.6%
Below poverty level 825,797 9.9% 0.5%

Employment in Virginia

Workforce and job types in Virginia

The job market in Virginia is powered by 4,277,711 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 82.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 17.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.8% run their own businesses, 62% are employed by private companies, and 20.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
4,277,711
0.5% year-over-year change
White collar
3,518,172
Blue collar
759,539
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 3,518,172 82.2% 0.7%
Blue collar 759,539 17.8% -0.7%
Employer type
Self employees
8.8%
Private companies
62%
Governmental workers
20.4%
Not for profit companies
8.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 374,492 8.8% 0.5%
Private companies 2,653,403 62% -0.1%
Governmental workers 874,827 20.4% 1.1%
Not for profit companies 374,989 8.8% 2.5%
Unemployment rate
4.3%
-0.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Virginia stands at 4.3%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Virginia

How people get around in Virginia

In Virginia, the average commute time is 27 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 75.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.1% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
27 min
-1.1% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 3,271,543 75.6% -1.9%
Taxicab 9,507 0.2% 4.8%
Bus or trolleybus 49,947 1.2% -9.1%
Subway or elevated 39,726 0.9% N/A
Railroad 9,290 0.2% -8.9%
Ferryboat 644 0% -4.0%
Motorcycle 4,987 0.1% -2.3%
Bicycle 12,340 0.3% -0.9%
Walk 89,149 2.1% 0.5%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

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FAQs about Virginia demographics 

What is the total population of Virginia?

Virginia has a total population of 8,705,170 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +0.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Virginia?

The gender ratio in Virginia is as follows:
  • 49.4% males (4,300,735 residents)
  • 50.6% females (4,404,435 residents)

What is the median age in Virginia?

The median age in Virginia is 39.

What is the age distribution of the population in Virginia?

The age distribution in Virginia is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.9% (1,556,162 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.1% (1,141,330 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.1% (2,355,204 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.3% (2,198,731 residents)
  • Over 65: 16.7% (1,453,743 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Virginia?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Virginia is as follows:
  • White: 60.2% (5,240,029 residents)
  • Black or African American: 18.6% (1,616,256 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (30,986 residents)
  • Asian: 6.9% (604,505 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (5,710 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 9.5% (823,611 residents)
  • Other: 4.4% (384,073 residents)

What percentage of the population in Virginia are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 84.8% of the population in Virginia.

How many housing units are there in Virginia?

There are 3,684,756 housing units in Virginia, reflecting a +0.8% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Virginia and what is the average household size?

Virginia has a total of 3,365,732 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Virginia?

Virginia has a median household income of $93,170, representing a +2.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Virginia?

The employment rate is 95.7% in Virginia, with a workforce of 4,277,711 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 82.2% (3,518,172 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 17.8% (759,539 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.8% (374,492 residents)
  • Private companies: 62% (2,653,403 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 20.4% (874,827 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.8% (374,989 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025