Big Stone Gap City Healthcare

Big Stone Gap, VA (Wise County), is served by facilities like Lonesome Pine Hospital (now part of Ballad Health), offering emergency and acute care. The area also has federally qualified health centers, such as Southwest Virginia Community Health Systems. About 13% of Wise County residents are uninsured, and roughly 60% report having a regular healthcare provider. With a population that is 89% White and a median age of 43, prevalent health issues include diabetes (14%), hypertension (38%), and high rates of opioid use disorder. Healthcare access remains challenged by transportation barriers and physician shortages—approximately 1 primary care provider per 2,000 residents.

Big Stone Gap City Housing

Big Stone Gap, in Wise County, VA, offers affordable housing with a homeownership rate of about 65% and a median home value near $110,000. Median rent is approximately $650 per month. The housing market is stable, with modest appreciation trends over recent years. Common housing types include single-family homes and some duplexes, mostly in quiet neighborhoods like Powell Valley and East Stone Gap. Property taxes are low, averaging $0.63 per $100 of assessed value, making the area attractive for both buyers and renters seeking value in southwest Virginia.

Education in Big Stone Gap City

Big Stone Gap, in Wise County, VA, hosts 5 public schools, including Union High School, which serves grades 9-12 and scores 6/10 on GreatSchools. Approximately 82% of residents have a high school diploma, but only 12% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. School safety is emphasized, with recent reports indicating below-average incident rates. Educational programs include advanced placement and vocational training. The Wise County Adult Learning Center nearby provides GED and adult literacy courses, supporting lifelong learning.

Big Stone Gap City Demographics

Big Stone Gap, a town in Wise County, VA, had a population of approximately 5,254 in 2020. The median age is around 43 years. Females comprise 53%, and males 47%. The town's racial makeup is predominantly White (88%), with Black or African American residents making up about 6%, and other races, including Hispanic or Latino, Asian, and multiracial individuals, about 6% combined.

Transportation in Big Stone Gap City

Big Stone Gap, located in Wise County, VA, primarily relies on private vehicles for transportation, reflected by a vehicle ownership rate of over 90% of households. The average daily commute time is about 22 minutes. Public transportation usage is minimal, with less than 1% of residents commuting by transit. The town is served by US Route 23 and US Route 58A, and lacks robust public transit options. Major employment hubs include the healthcare sector (Lonesome Pine Hospital), local schools, and coal-related industries, with most residents commuting locally or to nearby towns such as Norton or Wise.

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