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

Total population
35,448
-0.8% year-over-year change
Median household income
$52,943/yr
4.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
16,627
-0.2% year-over-year change

Wise County population

How many people live in Wise County

Wise County is home to 35,448 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 52.6% of Wise County locals are male, and 47.4% are female.

Total population
35,448
-0.8% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
52.6%
18,631
Female
47.4%
16,817
Value Percent YoY change
Male 18,631 52.6% -0.3%
Female 16,817 47.4% -1.3%
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 Wise County is 42, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.5% are children under 15, then 11.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26.3% of the population, while another 26.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
41.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.5%
15 to 24
11.9%
25 to 44
26.3%
45 to 64
26.4%
Over 65
19.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 5,498 15.5% -1.4%
15 to 24 4,231 11.9% -1.9%
25 to 44 9,326 26.3% 1.1%
45 to 64 9,347 26.4% -1.1%
Over 65 7,046 19.9% -1.6%
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 Wise County, 97.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 90.2% of locals are Caucasian, 4.9% are African American and 0.3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 3.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.4%
Non-citizens
0.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 34,686 97.8% -1.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 495 1.4% 16.2%
Non-citizens 267 0.8% 23.0%
Racial breakdown
White
90.2%
Black or African American
4.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
0.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
3.3%
Other
1%
Value Percent
White 31,982 90.2%
Black or African American 1,724 4.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 102 0.3%
Asian 112 0.3%
Two or more races 1,169 3.3%
Other 359 1%

Households in Wise County

A peek inside Wise County households

Wise County has 13,905 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 67.4% are families, while the remaining 32.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
13,905
-1.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
4,538
Family households
9,367
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 4,538 32.6% -1.2%
Family households 9,367 67.4% -1.0%
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 Wise County

The housing landscape of Wise County

Wise County's housing consists of 16,627 units, with 63.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.6% 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 28.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
16,627
-0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 10,549 63.4%
1 unit, attached 92 0.6%
2 units 209 1.3%
3 or 4 units 337 2%
5 to 9 units 451 2.7%
10 to 19 units 112 0.7%
20 to 49 units 46 0.3%
50 or more units 49 0.3%
Mobile home 4,778 28.7%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 4 0%
Homes built since 2020
40
29.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Wise County

In Wise County, the median construction year is 1980. About 10.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 12.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,803 10.8% 5.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,071 6.4% -12.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,227 7.4% -1.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,287 7.7% 6.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,839 17.1% -11.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,495 15% 7.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,725 16.4% 2.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,120 12.8% 8.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,020 6.1% -4.0%
Built in 2020 or later 40 0.2% 29.0%
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.

Wise County occupancy rates

Out of the 13,905 occupied housing units in Wise County, 74.2% are owner-occupied, while 25.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 16.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
13,905
-1.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,588
Owner occupied
10,317
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,588 25.8% -1.3%
Owner occupied 10,317 74.2% -1.0%
Unoccupied housing units
16.4%
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.

Wise County housing costs

Housing costs in Wise County come to a median of $696 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $790.

Median housing costs per month
$696/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 Wise County
$790/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 Wise County

Wise County education at a glance

About 47.7% of the population in Wise County went to high school, while 21.9% pursued college studies. Another 9.5% earned an associate degree and 9.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,735 6% 0.1%
High school diploma 13,690 47.7% 2.9%
College diploma 6,283 21.9% -6.2%
Associate degree 2,724 9.5% -7.3%
Bachelor's degree 2,808 9.8% 4.6%
Graduate degree 1,442 5% -4.1%
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 Wise County

How much people earn in Wise County

The average annual household income in Wise County was $64,112 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $52,943, reflecting a +4.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Wise County
$64,112/year
4.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Wise County
$52,943/year
4.3% year-over-year change

Wise County income by age

In Wise County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $64,685. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $56,620 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $54,727, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $35,825 in earnings. Overall, 82.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $54,727 16.9%
25 - 44 $64,685 -2.3%
45 - 64 $56,620 4.2%
Over 65 $35,825 1.8%
Above poverty level
26,702
Below poverty level
5,505
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 26,702 82.9% -0.3%
Below poverty level 5,505 17.1% -3.9%

Employment in Wise County

Workforce and job types in Wise County

The job market in Wise County is powered by 12,591 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 75.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 24.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.5% run their own businesses, 61% are employed by private companies, and 24.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
12,591
-0.4% year-over-year change
White collar
9,548
Blue collar
3,043
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 9,548 75.8% -0.8%
Blue collar 3,043 24.2% 0.9%
Employer type
Self employees
6.5%
Private companies
61%
Governmental workers
24.7%
Not for profit companies
7.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 817 6.5% 9.4%
Private companies 7,677 61% -3.2%
Governmental workers 3,111 24.7% 3.9%
Not for profit companies 986 7.8% 1.5%
Unemployment rate
8.2%
-3.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Wise County stands at 8.2%, 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 Wise County

How people get around in Wise County

Commuting methods vary: 86.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.3% 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 10,707 86.2% -1.3%
Bus or trolleybus 20 0.2% -20.0%
Walk 286 2.3% -13.3%
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 Wise County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
24246 78 31 $0 $0
24216 2,246 965 $37,795 $48,103
24219 10,450 3,703 $55,252 $69,976
24273 5,593 2,423 $41,978 $57,925
24279 4,671 1,722 $43,602 $60,435
24283 1,832 859 $40,402 $53,744
24293 9,786 4,123 $63,413 $74,300
24230 6,900 2,805 $48,573 $57,995

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FAQs about Wise County demographics 

What is the total population of Wise County?

Wise County has a total population of 35,448 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 -0.8% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Wise County?

The gender ratio in Wise County is as follows:
  • 52.6% males (18,631 residents)
  • 47.4% females (16,817 residents)

What is the median age in Wise County?

The median age in Wise County is 41.8.

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

The age distribution in Wise County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.5% (5,498 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.9% (4,231 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26.3% (9,326 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.4% (9,347 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.9% (7,046 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Wise County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Wise County is as follows:
  • White: 90.2% (31,982 residents)
  • Black or African American: 4.9% (1,724 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (102 residents)
  • Asian: 0.3% (112 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 3.3% (1,169 residents)
  • Other: 1% (359 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.8% of the population in Wise County.

How many housing units are there in Wise County?

There are 16,627 housing units in Wise County, 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 Wise County and what is the average household size?

Wise County has a total of 13,905 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Wise County?

Wise County has a median household income of $52,943, representing a +4.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 91.8% in Wise County, with a workforce of 12,591 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 75.8% (9,548 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 24.2% (3,043 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.5% (817 residents)
  • Private companies: 61% (7,677 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 24.7% (3,111 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.8% (986 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