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

Total population
6,593
-0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$57,833/yr
6.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
2,949
0.2% year-over-year change

Buena Vista population

How many people live in Buena Vista

Buena Vista is home to 6,593 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.6% of Buena Vista locals are male, and 51.4% are female.

Total population
6,593
-0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.6%
3,201
Female
51.4%
3,392
Value Percent YoY change
Male 3,201 48.6% 1.3%
Female 3,392 51.4% -1.7%
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 Buena Vista is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.5% are children under 15, then 20.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 21.9% of the population, while another 21.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
35.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.5%
15 to 24
20.7%
25 to 44
21.9%
45 to 64
21.1%
Over 65
18.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,155 17.5% 1.9%
15 to 24 1,365 20.7% -1.6%
25 to 44 1,441 21.9% 6.0%
45 to 64 1,392 21.1% -8.4%
Over 65 1,240 18.8% 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 Buena Vista, 99.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 0.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 84.7% of locals are Caucasian, 2% are African American and 1% have Asian roots. Another 1.3% are Indigenous American, 0.4% are Pacific Islanders, while 0.5% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 10.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
99.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0.6%
Non-citizens
0.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 6,534 99.1% -0.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 38 0.6% -24.0%
Non-citizens 21 0.3% N/A
Racial breakdown
White
84.7%
Black or African American
2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.3%
Asian
1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.4%
Two or more races
10.2%
Other
0.5%
Value Percent
White 5,583 84.7%
Black or African American 134 2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 83 1.3%
Asian 68 1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 23 0.4%
Two or more races 670 10.2%
Other 32 0.5%

Households in Buena Vista

A peek inside Buena Vista households

Buena Vista has 2,554 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
2,554
-2.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
841
Family households
1,713
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 841 32.9% 4.2%
Family households 1,713 67.1% -5.0%
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 Buena Vista

The housing landscape of Buena Vista

Buena Vista's housing consists of 2,949 units, with 82.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 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 4.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
2,949
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 2,423 82.2%
1 unit, attached 60 2%
2 units 67 2.3%
3 or 4 units 15 0.5%
5 to 9 units 42 1.4%
10 to 19 units 105 3.6%
20 to 49 units 58 2%
50 or more units 43 1.5%
Mobile home 136 4.6%
Homes built since 2020
14
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Buena Vista

In Buena Vista, the median construction year is 1972. About 10.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 6.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.3% 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 316 10.7% 6.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 131 4.4% 44.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 563 19.1% -15.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 375 12.7% 7.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 584 19.8% 25.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 367 12.4% -17.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 268 9.1% -6.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 204 6.9% -9.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 127 4.3% 2.4%
Built in 2020 or later 14 0.5% N/A
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.

Buena Vista occupancy rates

Out of the 2,554 occupied housing units in Buena Vista, 56.5% are owner-occupied, while 43.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 13.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
2,554
-2.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,111
Owner occupied
1,443
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,111 43.5% -0.6%
Owner occupied 1,443 56.5% -3.4%
Unoccupied housing units
13.4%
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.

Buena Vista housing costs

Housing costs in Buena Vista come to a median of $872 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,112.

Median housing costs per month
$872/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 Buena Vista
$1,112/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 Buena Vista

Buena Vista education at a glance

About 43.6% of the population in Buena Vista went to high school, while 25.8% pursued college studies. Another 7.6% earned an associate degree and 12% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 171 3.3% -15.3%
High school diploma 2,244 43.6% 5.2%
College diploma 1,327 25.8% -2.2%
Associate degree 392 7.6% -8.0%
Bachelor's degree 617 12% -10.2%
Graduate degree 390 7.6% 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 Buena Vista

How much people earn in Buena Vista

The average annual household income in Buena Vista was $63,830 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -23.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $57,833, reflecting a +6.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Buena Vista
$63,830/year
-23.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Buena Vista
$57,833/year
6.2% year-over-year change

Buena Vista income by age

In Buena Vista, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $59,441. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $60,918 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $51,161, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $40,536 in earnings. Overall, 81% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $51,161 -0.5%
25 - 44 $59,441 7.0%
45 - 64 $60,918 1.6%
Over 65 $40,536 15.8%
Above poverty level
4,906
Below poverty level
1,148
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 4,906 81% 4.6%
Below poverty level 1,148 19% -14.3%

Average renter income in Buena Vista

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Buena Vista, their median household income was $47,594 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 28%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$47,594
Rent-to-income ratio
28%
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 Buena Vista

Workforce and job types in Buena Vista

The job market in Buena Vista is powered by 2,822 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 77.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 22.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.2% run their own businesses, 62% are employed by private companies, and 16.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
2,822
-2.3% year-over-year change
White collar
2,191
Blue collar
631
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,191 77.6% -6.1%
Blue collar 631 22.4% 13.7%
Employer type
Self employees
8.2%
Private companies
62%
Governmental workers
16.8%
Not for profit companies
12.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 232 8.2% 103.5%
Private companies 1,751 62% -3.6%
Governmental workers 474 16.8% -13.2%
Not for profit companies 365 12.9% -11.2%
Unemployment rate
1.4%
-37.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Buena Vista stands at 1.4%, 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 Buena Vista

How people get around in Buena Vista

Commuting methods vary: 86.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 5.3% 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 2,398 86.6% -1.4%
Walk 148 5.3% -10.3%
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 Buena Vista by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
24416 9,082 3,419 $54,882 $67,598

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about Buena Vista demographics 

What is the total population of Buena Vista?

Buena Vista has a total population of 6,593 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 Buena Vista?

The gender ratio in Buena Vista is as follows:
  • 48.6% males (3,201 residents)
  • 51.4% females (3,392 residents)

What is the median age in Buena Vista?

The median age in Buena Vista is 35.9.

What is the age distribution of the population in Buena Vista?

The age distribution in Buena Vista is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.5% (1,155 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 20.7% (1,365 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 21.9% (1,441 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 21.1% (1,392 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.8% (1,240 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Buena Vista?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Buena Vista is as follows:
  • White: 84.7% (5,583 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2% (134 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.3% (83 residents)
  • Asian: 1% (68 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.4% (23 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 10.2% (670 residents)
  • Other: 0.5% (32 residents)

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

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

How many housing units are there in Buena Vista?

There are 2,949 housing units in Buena Vista, reflecting a +0.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Buena Vista has a total of 2,554 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Buena Vista?

Buena Vista has a median household income of $57,833, representing a +6.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Buena Vista?

The employment rate is 98.6% in Buena Vista, with a workforce of 2,822 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 77.6% (2,191 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 22.4% (631 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.2% (232 residents)
  • Private companies: 62% (1,751 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 16.8% (474 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 12.9% (365 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