Roanoke, VA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
98,355
-0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$55,378/yr
5.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
49,106
0.4% year-over-year change

Roanoke population

How many people live in Roanoke

Roanoke is home to 98,355 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47% of Roanoke locals are male, and 53% are female.

Total population
98,355
-0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47%
46,233
Female
53%
52,122
Value Percent YoY change
Male 46,233 47% -0.6%
Female 52,122 53% -0.1%
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 Roanoke is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.9% are children under 15, then 11.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 28% of the population, while another 24.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
38.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.9%
15 to 24
11.2%
25 to 44
28%
45 to 64
24.2%
Over 65
17.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 18,595 18.9% -0.9%
15 to 24 10,973 11.2% 1.1%
25 to 44 27,538 28% 0.1%
45 to 64 23,783 24.2% -2.1%
Over 65 17,466 17.8% 1.4%
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 Roanoke, 90.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 5.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 56.8% of locals are Caucasian, 27.9% are African American and 3.1% have Asian roots. Another 0.1% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 2.9% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
90.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4%
Non-citizens
5.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 89,287 90.8% -0.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 3,894 4% -2.4%
Non-citizens 5,174 5.3% 9.1%
Racial breakdown
White
56.8%
Black or African American
27.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
3.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
9%
Other
2.9%
Value Percent
White 55,840 56.8%
Black or African American 27,466 27.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 136 0.1%
Asian 3,082 3.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 95 0.1%
Two or more races 8,852 9%
Other 2,884 2.9%

Households in Roanoke

A peek inside Roanoke households

Roanoke has 43,575 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 51.5% are families, while the remaining 48.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
43,575
0.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
21,120
Family households
22,455
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 21,120 48.5% 0.5%
Family households 22,455 51.5% 0.2%
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 Roanoke

The housing landscape of Roanoke

Roanoke's housing consists of 49,106 units, with 61.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.4% 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 0.9% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
49,106
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 30,303 61.7%
1 unit, attached 1,663 3.4%
2 units 3,675 7.5%
3 or 4 units 2,115 4.3%
5 to 9 units 3,272 6.7%
10 to 19 units 3,962 8.1%
20 to 49 units 1,633 3.3%
50 or more units 2,025 4.1%
Mobile home 458 0.9%
Homes built since 2020
243
54.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Roanoke

In Roanoke, the median construction year is 1958. About 24.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 11.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 5.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3.7% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 12,152 24.8% -1.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 5,626 11.5% 13.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 8,270 16.8% -1.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 5,870 12% 0.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 6,196 12.6% 1.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 3,385 6.9% -15.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,773 5.6% -9.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,794 5.7% 4.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,797 3.7% 23.4%
Built in 2020 or later 243 0.5% 54.8%
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.

Roanoke occupancy rates

Out of the 43,575 occupied housing units in Roanoke, 52.4% are owner-occupied, while 47.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 11.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
43,575
0.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
20,723
Owner occupied
22,852
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 20,723 47.6% -1.2%
Owner occupied 22,852 52.4% 1.8%
Unoccupied housing units
11.3%
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.

Roanoke housing costs

Housing costs in Roanoke come to a median of $1,000 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $996.

Median housing costs per month
$1,000/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 Roanoke
$996/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 Roanoke

Roanoke education at a glance

About 40.9% of the population in Roanoke went to high school, while 19.7% pursued college studies. Another 7.4% earned an associate degree and 18% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 10.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,675 3.5% -0.6%
High school diploma 31,151 40.9% -2.4%
College diploma 14,984 19.7% -0.6%
Associate degree 5,633 7.4% 2.3%
Bachelor's degree 13,661 18% 3.0%
Graduate degree 7,997 10.5% 1.3%
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 Roanoke

How much people earn in Roanoke

The average annual household income in Roanoke was $80,578 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $55,378, reflecting a +5.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Roanoke
$80,578/year
5.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Roanoke
$55,378/year
5.1% year-over-year change

Roanoke income by age

In Roanoke, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $65,711. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $57,436 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $32,543, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $43,600 in earnings. Overall, 81.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $32,543 7.6%
25 - 44 $65,711 3.8%
45 - 64 $57,436 -2.5%
Over 65 $43,600 6.5%
Above poverty level
78,146
Below poverty level
17,536
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 78,146 81.7% 1.1%
Below poverty level 17,536 18.3% -6.8%

Average renter income in Roanoke

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Roanoke, their median household income was $34,025 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 35.1%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$34,025
Rent-to-income ratio
35.1%
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 Roanoke

Workforce and job types in Roanoke

The job market in Roanoke is powered by 45,699 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 76.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 23.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6% run their own businesses, 68.6% are employed by private companies, and 13.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
45,699
-1.1% year-over-year change
White collar
35,134
Blue collar
10,565
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 35,134 76.9% -0.3%
Blue collar 10,565 23.1% -3.5%
Employer type
Self employees
6%
Private companies
68.6%
Governmental workers
13.4%
Not for profit companies
12%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,722 6% -1.5%
Private companies 31,355 68.6% -2.1%
Governmental workers 6,134 13.4% 4.1%
Not for profit companies 5,488 12% -0.2%
Unemployment rate
5.6%
1.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Roanoke stands at 5.6%, 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 Roanoke

How people get around in Roanoke

Commuting methods vary: 81.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.6% 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 36,839 81.9% -3.3%
Taxicab 240 0.5% 263.6%
Bus or trolleybus 1,066 2.4% -0.9%
Ferryboat 10 0% N/A
Motorcycle 123 0.3% -7.5%
Bicycle 109 0.2% 43.4%
Walk 726 1.6% 12.6%
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 Roanoke by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
24011 784 577 $54,986 $82,447
24012 28,235 12,431 $52,973 $68,190
24013 8,026 2,726 $51,290 $64,020
24014 15,300 7,238 $70,381 $129,349
24015 15,865 7,232 $69,831 $94,638
24016 10,521 4,994 $46,512 $72,107
24017 23,678 9,602 $47,360 $61,210
24018 38,720 16,346 $90,885 $125,211
24019 28,585 11,952 $77,870 $93,819
24020 583 0 $0 $0

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FAQs about Roanoke demographics 

What is the total population of Roanoke?

Roanoke has a total population of 98,355 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 Roanoke?

The gender ratio in Roanoke is as follows:
  • 47% males (46,233 residents)
  • 53% females (52,122 residents)

What is the median age in Roanoke?

The median age in Roanoke is 38.3.

What is the age distribution of the population in Roanoke?

The age distribution in Roanoke is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.9% (18,595 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.2% (10,973 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 28% (27,538 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.2% (23,783 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.8% (17,466 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Roanoke?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Roanoke is as follows:
  • White: 56.8% (55,840 residents)
  • Black or African American: 27.9% (27,466 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (136 residents)
  • Asian: 3.1% (3,082 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (95 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 9% (8,852 residents)
  • Other: 2.9% (2,884 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 90.8% of the population in Roanoke.

How many housing units are there in Roanoke?

There are 49,106 housing units in Roanoke, reflecting a +0.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Roanoke has a total of 43,575 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Roanoke?

Roanoke has a median household income of $55,378, representing a +5.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.4% in Roanoke, with a workforce of 45,699 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 76.9% (35,134 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 23.1% (10,565 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6% (2,722 residents)
  • Private companies: 68.6% (31,355 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.4% (6,134 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 12% (5,488 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