IncomeBy County

Smyth County, Virginia

Income Data

-37% vs. Virginia average
$46,859
Median Household Income
$29,369
Per Capita Income

At a Glance

Median Household Income
$46,859
-37% vs. state avg
Per Capita Income
$29,369
-26% vs. national
Income-to-Housing Ratio
37.2%
income as % of home value
Rank in Virginia
#121 / 133
by median household income

How Smyth County Compares

Smyth County$46,859
Virginia Average$74,957
National Median$74,755

Detailed Income Statistics

$46,859
Median Household Income
$29,369
Per Capita Income
$125,800
Median Home Value
37.2%
Income-to-Housing Ratio

Data Story

About Household Income in Smyth County, Virginia

Smyth County significantly trails national earnings

Smyth County's median household income of $46,859 falls 37.3% short of the nation's $74,755 median. This substantial gap reflects the economic realities of rural Southwest Virginia, where post-industrial decline has reshaped employment and wage opportunities.

Among Virginia's lower-income counties

Smyth County earns $28,098 less than Virginia's state median of $74,957 and falls $9,786 below the state per capita average. The county's income profile aligns with other struggling southwestern Virginia communities, signaling regional economic challenges.

Comparable to nearby rural counties

Smyth County's $46,859 income nearly matches Scott County's $45,136, reflecting shared economic struggles in the region. Both counties significantly lag coastal and northern Virginia areas, where proximity to Washington D.C. and major metros supports higher incomes.

Strong housing affordability cushions tight budgets

Smyth County's 17.7% rent-to-income ratio demonstrates excellent housing affordability, allowing households to allocate more income to savings and essentials. A median home value of $125,800 is achievable for households earning $46,859, particularly with support programs for first-time homebuyers.

Low housing costs create wealth-building opportunity

Smyth County residents benefit from some of the state's most affordable housing, freeing cash for financial security and growth. Work with local credit unions and community banks to develop savings plans, explore first-time homebuyer programs, and build assets despite modest incomes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the median household income in Smyth County, Virginia?
The median household income in Smyth County, Virginia is $46,859, according to U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey 2019-2023 5-Year Estimates. This represents the midpoint of all household incomes in the county.
How much do people earn in Smyth County?
The per capita income in Smyth County is $29,369, which represents the average income per person across the entire county population. The median household income — which accounts for all earners in a household — is $46,859.
How does Smyth County compare to the Virginia average?
Smyth County's median household income of $46,859 is lower than the Virginia state average of $74,957. The per capita income is $29,369, compared to the state average of $39,155.
What is the per capita income in Smyth County, Virginia?
The per capita income in Smyth County, Virginia is $29,369, according to U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey 2019-2023 5-Year Estimates. Per capita income is calculated by dividing total personal income by total population, providing an average income figure per resident.
Is Smyth County a low-income area in Virginia?
Smyth County's median household income of $46,859 is below the Virginia average of $74,957. The per capita income of $29,369 is also lower than the state average of $39,155. Lower incomes can reflect the local economic base, rural vs. urban location, and employment opportunities available in the area.
How does Smyth County rank for income in Virginia?
Smyth County ranks #121 out of 133 counties in Virginia by median household income (1 = highest). With a median household income of $46,859 and per capita income of $29,369, it falls in the bottom third of counties statewide.

Income Comparison Calculator

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County median: $46,859 per year

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vs. State Average

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vs. National Median

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vs. Smyth County MedianAbout equal
vs. Virginia Average▼ 37% below
vs. National Median▼ 37% below

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Counties with Similar Income Levels

Calhoun County
Florida
$46,901
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Red River County
Texas
$46,912
+0%
Natchitoches Parish
Louisiana
$46,798
+0%
Martin County
North Carolina
$46,793
+0%
Dougherty County
Georgia
$46,784
+0%
Warren County
Georgia
$46,776
+0%
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Data: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.

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