Roanoke city, Virginia
Income Data
At a Glance
How Roanoke city Compares
Detailed Income Statistics
Data Story
About Household Income in Roanoke city, Virginia
Roanoke city falls furthest behind nationally
Roanoke city's median household income of $52,671 ranks 30% below the national median of $74,755—a shortfall of $22,084. This significant gap reflects the city's post-industrial economy and challenges common to many mid-sized former manufacturing hubs.
Lowest income tier in Virginia
Roanoke city's median household income of $52,671 sits substantially below Virginia's state average of $74,957, representing the lowest earnings among all counties studied. The city's per capita income of $34,792 also trails the state average of $39,155, indicating systemic economic challenges.
Struggling compared to neighboring counties
Roanoke city's median income of $52,671 lags significantly behind neighboring Roanoke County ($82,931) by $30,260 and Salem city ($66,716) by $14,045. This disparity underscores the economic divergence between the city and its suburban and smaller city counterparts.
Housing demands higher income share
Roanoke city's rent-to-income ratio of 22.0% means housing consumes a meaningful portion of earnings, though it remains within conventional affordability thresholds. The median home value of $180,500 represents 3.4 years of gross household income—relatively accessible but a significant commitment.
Prioritize financial stability first
For Roanoke households earning $52,671 annually, building wealth begins with financial stability: establishing an emergency fund and reducing debt before investing. Community financial counseling services and employer retirement plans are excellent starting points for households working toward greater economic security.
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Compare RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.