Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Roanoke City, VA had a population of 100,011. The median age was 39.4 years. The gender distribution was approximately 52% female and 48% male. Racially, the population was 56% White, 29% Black or African American, 2% Asian, and 9% Hispanic or Latino of any race. Other groups, including multiracial residents, made up about 4%.

Elections

Roanoke City, VA (an independent city, not a county), had 65,486 registered voters as of November 2023. It conducts elections for federal, state, and local offices, including City Council and School Board. In the 2023 general election, Democratic candidates typically received about 60% of the vote. Major polling locations include the Berglund Center and local high schools. Issues center on education, public safety, and housing. Elections are administered by the Roanoke City Electoral Board. The main political parties are Democratic and Republican, with Democrats generally holding local offices. Voter turnout averages around 40% in midterms.

County Crime & Safety

Roanoke City, VA, reports a higher crime rate compared to state averages, with a violent crime rate of 4.4 per 1,000 residents and a property crime rate of 26.2 per 1,000, according to recent FBI data. Both metrics exceed Virginia’s averages of 2.1 and 15.9, respectively. Crime is concentrated in certain neighborhoods, prompting active community policing. Residents are encouraged to report incidents using Roanoke Police Department’s online or non-emergency reporting systems, helping authorities address safety concerns and allocate resources effectively.

Education, Employment and Housing

Roanoke City County, VA, features 27 public schools, including 5 high schools, serving around 13,500 students. About 87% of adults hold a high school diploma, while 29% have a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average school ratings are 5/10, reflecting moderate performance. The area emphasizes school safety, with resource officers present in all secondary schools. Educational programs include Advanced Placement and career and technical education. Adult education options are provided through Roanoke’s Adult Education Center, supporting GED attainment and workforce skills.

As of 2022, Roanoke City County, VA, has an employment rate of approximately 59.5%. Leading industries include Health Care & Social Assistance (20.4%), Retail Trade (12.4%), and Educational Services (11.8%). Top occupations are in Office & Administrative Support (13.8%) and Management (8.2%). The median commute time is 19.5 minutes, with about 84% of workers commuting by car. Major employment clusters are centered in Roanoke City, with significant inter-county commuters from neighboring Roanoke and Salem.

Roanoke City, VA, has a 2022 homeownership rate of about 53%, with median home values around $178,000 and median rents at $950. The real estate market has seen property values rise by approximately 7% over the past year. Housing types range from historic single-family homes to modern apartments, particularly in neighborhoods like Grandin Village and South Roanoke. Popular areas offer walkability and diverse architecture. Roanoke’s effective property tax rate is about $1.22 per $100 of assessed value, making it relatively affordable compared to the surrounding region.