Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Giles County, VA, had a population of 16,787. The median age is about 46 years. Approximately 49.6% of residents are male and 50.4% female. The racial composition is predominantly White (94.3%), with African Americans (2.7%), Asian (0.6%), and Hispanic or Latino (1.6%). Other races and multiracial individuals make up the remainder. The county is largely rural, with modest population changes in recent years.

Elections

As of 2024, Giles County, VA has approximately 11,000 registered voters. County elections include local offices, state, and federal races, with the 2023 general election seeing a 52% voter turnout. Polling locations include Pearisburg Community Center and Narrows Town Hall. The Giles County Electoral Board oversees administration, ensuring compliance and transparency. Major parties are Republican and Democrat, with Republicans holding a majority in recent results. Key local issues include education funding and economic development. Voter registration, absentee voting, and election results are managed through the Virginia Department of Elections.

County Crime & Safety

Giles County, VA, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to state and national averages. According to recent FBI data, the county reported a violent crime rate of 1.5 incidents per 1,000 residents and a property crime rate of 8.2 per 1,000 in 2022. Public safety is overseen by the Giles County Sheriff’s Office, which encourages prompt crime reporting through their non-emergency and emergency contacts. Despite occasional incidents, Giles County remains considered a safe community, with ongoing efforts to improve awareness and policing.

Education, Employment and Housing

Giles County, VA, operates 5 public schools, including Giles High School and Narrows High School, serving approximately 2,300 students. The high school graduation rate is 91%, while about 18% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average school safety ratings are above state averages, and schools score 6/10 on state assessments. Giles County offers career/technical education and dual-enrollment college credit programs. Adult education opportunities are available through New River Community College’s outreach.

As of 2023, Giles County, VA had an employment rate of approximately 58.3%. The leading industries are manufacturing (21%), healthcare and social assistance (15%), and educational services (12%). Major occupation types include production (19%), office/administration (14%), and management (11%). About 75% of employed residents commute outside the county, with most traveling to Montgomery County or the City of Radford. The average commute time is 26 minutes, and over 85% of workers drive alone to their workplaces.

Giles County, VA boasts a homeownership rate of around 74%, with a median home value near $162,000 as of 2023. Rental options comprise roughly 26% of households, with median rents close to $800 per month. The market leans towards single-family homes, alongside some apartments and historic properties, especially in neighborhoods like Pearisburg and Narrows. Recent years have seen modest property value growth of 3–5% annually. Property taxes are relatively low, averaging $0.61 per $100 assessed value. The area offers a mix of rural charm and small-town amenities, appealing to families and retirees alike.