Rockbridge County, VA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
22,531
-0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$65,469/yr
2.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
11,361
0.4% year-over-year change

Rockbridge County population

How many people live in Rockbridge County

Rockbridge County is home to 22,531 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.7% of Rockbridge County locals are male, and 50.3% are female.

Total population
22,531
-0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.7%
11,188
Female
50.3%
11,343
Value Percent YoY change
Male 11,188 49.7% 1.1%
Female 11,343 50.3% -1.5%
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 Rockbridge County is 50, with the population distributed as follows: about 13.4% are children under 15, then 10.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 20.7% of the population, while another 27.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 27.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
49.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
13.4%
15 to 24
10.9%
25 to 44
20.7%
45 to 64
27.6%
Over 65
27.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,023 13.4% -5.2%
15 to 24 2,454 10.9% 2.8%
25 to 44 4,662 20.7% 0.5%
45 to 64 6,209 27.6% -1.6%
Over 65 6,183 27.4% 2.2%
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 Rockbridge County, 96.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 90.1% of locals are Caucasian, 3.1% are African American and 0.9% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 4.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.4%
Non-citizens
0.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 21,783 96.7% -0.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 549 2.4% 10.2%
Non-citizens 199 0.9% 16.4%
Racial breakdown
White
90.1%
Black or African American
3.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
0.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4.4%
Other
1.4%
Value Percent
White 20,297 90.1%
Black or African American 697 3.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 41 0.2%
Asian 196 0.9%
Two or more races 980 4.4%
Other 320 1.4%

Households in Rockbridge County

A peek inside Rockbridge County households

Rockbridge County has 9,552 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 67.1% are families, while the remaining 32.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
9,552
0.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
3,141
Family households
6,411
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,141 32.9% 0.1%
Family households 6,411 67.1% -0.1%
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 Rockbridge County

The housing landscape of Rockbridge County

Rockbridge County's housing consists of 11,361 units, with 79% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.2% 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 10.9% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
11,361
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 8,979 79%
1 unit, attached 246 2.2%
2 units 81 0.7%
3 or 4 units 178 1.6%
5 to 9 units 436 3.8%
10 to 19 units 52 0.5%
20 to 49 units 120 1.1%
50 or more units 26 0.2%
Mobile home 1,243 10.9%
Homes built since 2020
192
42.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Rockbridge County

In Rockbridge County, the median construction year is 1980. About 16.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 15.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.4% 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 1,841 16.2% 12.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 518 4.6% 12.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 813 7.2% -12.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,056 9.3% -1.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,401 12.3% -9.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,446 12.7% 17.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,824 16% -6.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,775 15.6% -2.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 495 4.4% -3.5%
Built in 2020 or later 192 1.7% 42.2%
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.

Rockbridge County occupancy rates

Out of the 9,552 occupied housing units in Rockbridge County, 79.3% are owner-occupied, while 20.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 15.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
9,552
0.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,980
Owner occupied
7,572
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,980 20.7% -3.9%
Owner occupied 7,572 79.3% 1.1%
Unoccupied housing units
15.9%
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.

Rockbridge County housing costs

Housing costs in Rockbridge County come to a median of $831 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $925.

Median housing costs per month
$831/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 Rockbridge County
$925/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 Rockbridge County

Rockbridge County education at a glance

About 39.4% of the population in Rockbridge County went to high school, while 19.9% pursued college studies. Another 6.6% earned an associate degree and 15.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 15% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 618 3.3% -4.9%
High school diploma 7,371 39.4% 0.5%
College diploma 3,713 19.9% -2.1%
Associate degree 1,233 6.6% -6.8%
Bachelor's degree 2,945 15.8% 3.5%
Graduate degree 2,812 15% 6.6%
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 Rockbridge County

How much people earn in Rockbridge County

The average annual household income in Rockbridge County was $88,858 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $65,469, reflecting a +2.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Rockbridge County
$88,858/year
4.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Rockbridge County
$65,469/year
2.3% year-over-year change

Rockbridge County income by age

In Rockbridge County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $79,861. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $67,112 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $33,676, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $55,118 in earnings. Overall, 92.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $33,676 9.6%
25 - 44 $79,861 -0.9%
45 - 64 $67,112 -3.3%
Over 65 $55,118 8.8%
Above poverty level
20,193
Below poverty level
1,646
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 20,193 92.5% -0.4%
Below poverty level 1,646 7.5% -7.2%

Employment in Rockbridge County

Workforce and job types in Rockbridge County

The job market in Rockbridge County is powered by 10,262 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 74% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 26% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 12.3% run their own businesses, 56.2% are employed by private companies, and 19.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
10,262
-0.4% year-over-year change
White collar
7,599
Blue collar
2,663
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 7,599 74% -0.9%
Blue collar 2,663 26% 0.9%
Employer type
Self employees
12.3%
Private companies
56.2%
Governmental workers
19.2%
Not for profit companies
12.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,265 12.3% 8.5%
Private companies 5,771 56.2% -1.7%
Governmental workers 1,974 19.2% -4.8%
Not for profit companies 1,252 12.2% 4.8%
Unemployment rate
3.9%
17.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Rockbridge County stands at 3.9%, 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 Rockbridge County

How people get around in Rockbridge County

Commuting methods vary: 87% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.9% 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 8,819 87% 0.9%
Bus or trolleybus 66 0.6% 43.5%
Ferryboat 21 0.2% -4.5%
Bicycle 43 0.4% 10.3%
Walk 89 0.9% -19.8%
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 Rockbridge County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
24415 90 21 $0 $0
24472 2,176 998 $51,429 $80,114
24473 979 433 $67,813 $109,607
24483 475 252 $77,500 $93,219
24416 9,082 3,419 $54,882 $67,598
24435 1,764 856 $70,114 $87,460
24439 1,124 501 $47,219 $63,604
24450 17,714 6,482 $76,587 $99,143
24459 535 260 $94,500 $107,120
24555 2,123 865 $56,080 $69,223

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FAQs about Rockbridge County demographics 

What is the total population of Rockbridge County?

Rockbridge County has a total population of 22,531 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 -0.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Rockbridge County?

The gender ratio in Rockbridge County is as follows:
  • 49.7% males (11,188 residents)
  • 50.3% females (11,343 residents)

What is the median age in Rockbridge County?

The median age in Rockbridge County is 49.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in Rockbridge County?

The age distribution in Rockbridge County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 13.4% (3,023 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.9% (2,454 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 20.7% (4,662 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27.6% (6,209 residents)
  • Over 65: 27.4% (6,183 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Rockbridge County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Rockbridge County is as follows:
  • White: 90.1% (20,297 residents)
  • Black or African American: 3.1% (697 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (41 residents)
  • Asian: 0.9% (196 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.4% (980 residents)
  • Other: 1.4% (320 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 96.7% of the population in Rockbridge County.

How many housing units are there in Rockbridge County?

There are 11,361 housing units in Rockbridge County, 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 Rockbridge County and what is the average household size?

Rockbridge County has a total of 9,552 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Rockbridge County?

Rockbridge County has a median household income of $65,469, representing a +2.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Rockbridge County?

The employment rate is 96.1% in Rockbridge County, with a workforce of 10,262 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 74% (7,599 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 26% (2,663 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 12.3% (1,265 residents)
  • Private companies: 56.2% (5,771 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 19.2% (1,974 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 12.2% (1,252 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