Richlands, VA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
5,171
-0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$37,154/yr
-0.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
2,803
3.4% year-over-year change

Richlands population

How many people live in Richlands

Richlands is home to 5,171 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 45.4% of Richlands locals are male, and 54.6% are female.

Total population
5,171
-0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
45.4%
2,348
Female
54.6%
2,823
Value Percent YoY change
Male 2,348 45.4% -4.0%
Female 2,823 54.6% 3.0%
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 Richlands is 44, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.5% are children under 15, then 14.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 20.2% of the population, while another 24.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 25% are 65 or older.

Median age
44.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.5%
15 to 24
14.5%
25 to 44
20.2%
45 to 64
24.8%
Over 65
25%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 803 15.5% -2.3%
15 to 24 748 14.5% 2.8%
25 to 44 1,042 20.2% -9.9%
45 to 64 1,283 24.8% 1.3%
Over 65 1,295 25% 6.5%
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 Richlands, 99.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 0.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 97.6% of locals are Caucasian, 0.1% are African American and 1.9% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 0.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
99.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0.7%
Non-citizens
0.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 5,124 99.1% -0.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 37 0.7% 2.8%
Non-citizens 10 0.2% 25.0%
Racial breakdown
White
97.6%
Black or African American
0.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
1.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
0.5%
Other
0%
Value Percent
White 5,046 97.6%
Black or African American 3 0.1%
Asian 97 1.9%
Two or more races 25 0.5%

Households in Richlands

A peek inside Richlands households

Richlands has 2,297 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 57.1% are families, while the remaining 42.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
2,297
3.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
985
Family households
1,312
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 985 42.9% 10.4%
Family households 1,312 57.1% -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 Richlands

The housing landscape of Richlands

Richlands's housing consists of 2,803 units, with 55.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.1% 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 28.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
2,803
3.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,557 55.6%
1 unit, attached 59 2.1%
2 units 73 2.6%
3 or 4 units 143 5.1%
5 to 9 units 66 2.4%
10 to 19 units 59 2.1%
20 to 49 units 32 1.1%
50 or more units 18 0.6%
Mobile home 796 28.4%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Richlands

In Richlands, the median construction year is 1974. About 13.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 380 13.6% 4.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 212 7.6% -13.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 203 7.2% -19.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 336 12% 23.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 764 27.3% 12.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 260 9.3% 31.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 312 11.1% -19.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 211 7.5% 10.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 125 4.5% 3.3%
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.

Richlands occupancy rates

Out of the 2,297 occupied housing units in Richlands, 63.8% are owner-occupied, while 36.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 18.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
2,297
3.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
832
Owner occupied
1,465
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 832 36.2% 9.2%
Owner occupied 1,465 63.8% 1.0%
Unoccupied housing units
18.1%
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.

Richlands housing costs

Housing costs in Richlands come to a median of $674 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $804.

Median housing costs per month
$674/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 Richlands
$804/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 Richlands

Richlands education at a glance

About 52.7% of the population in Richlands went to high school, while 22.1% pursued college studies. Another 8.4% earned an associate degree and 8.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 151 3.7% -12.7%
High school diploma 2,134 52.7% 5.6%
College diploma 893 22.1% -7.3%
Associate degree 338 8.4% 7.0%
Bachelor's degree 343 8.5% -0.9%
Graduate degree 189 4.7% -17.8%
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 Richlands

How much people earn in Richlands

The average annual household income in Richlands was $59,175 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -3.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $37,154, reflecting a -0.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Richlands
$59,175/year
-3.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Richlands
$37,154/year
-0.6% year-over-year change

Richlands income by age

In Richlands, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $38,438. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $44,125 overall. Overall, 69.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $38,438 -9.6%
45 - 64 $44,125 -22.5%
Over 65 $26,354 -2.9%
Above poverty level
3,600
Below poverty level
1,558
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 3,600 69.8% -2.6%
Below poverty level 1,558 30.2% 7.8%

Average renter income in Richlands

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Richlands, their median household income was $30,382 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 31.8%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$30,382
Rent-to-income ratio
31.8%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Richlands

Workforce and job types in Richlands

The job market in Richlands is powered by 1,429 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 72.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 27.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 13.4% run their own businesses, 73.3% are employed by private companies, and 10.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
1,429
-9.6% year-over-year change
White collar
1,035
Blue collar
394
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,035 72.4% -12.7%
Blue collar 394 27.6% -0.5%
Employer type
Self employees
13.4%
Private companies
73.3%
Governmental workers
10.7%
Not for profit companies
2.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 192 13.4% 15.0%
Private companies 1,047 73.3% -11.9%
Governmental workers 153 10.7% -17.7%
Not for profit companies 37 2.6% -7.5%
Unemployment rate
5.5%
-37.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Richlands stands at 5.5%, 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 Richlands

How people get around in Richlands

Commuting methods vary: 90.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.5% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 1,271 90.6% -12.3%
Bus or trolleybus 2 0.1% -50.0%
Walk 21 1.5% -40.0%
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.

What is the median and average household income in Richlands by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
24641 5,446 2,421 $35,531 $58,222

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FAQs about Richlands demographics 

What is the total population of Richlands?

Richlands has a total population of 5,171 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 -0.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Richlands?

The gender ratio in Richlands is as follows:
  • 45.4% males (2,348 residents)
  • 54.6% females (2,823 residents)

What is the median age in Richlands?

The median age in Richlands is 44.5.

What is the age distribution of the population in Richlands?

The age distribution in Richlands is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.5% (803 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.5% (748 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 20.2% (1,042 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.8% (1,283 residents)
  • Over 65: 25% (1,295 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Richlands?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Richlands is as follows:
  • White: 97.6% (5,046 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.1% (3 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 1.9% (97 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 0.5% (25 residents)
  • Other: 0% (0 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 99.1% of the population in Richlands.

How many housing units are there in Richlands?

There are 2,803 housing units in Richlands, reflecting a +3.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Richlands has a total of 2,297 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Richlands?

Richlands has a median household income of $37,154, representing a -0.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.5% in Richlands, with a workforce of 1,429 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 72.4% (1,035 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 27.6% (394 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 13.4% (192 residents)
  • Private companies: 73.3% (1,047 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 10.7% (153 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 2.6% (37 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