Highland County, Virginia Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Highland County is located in Virginia with a total population of 2,265. It is the 133rd most populous county out of 133 in Virginia.

Age Demographics

The median age in Highland County is 57.1 years. This is 47% higher than the state median of 38.8 years. Only 13.9% of residents are under 18, indicating fewer families with children. 15.6% of residents are 75 or older, suggesting a significant retirement-age population with implications for healthcare services and senior housing.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Highland County is $62,946. This is 31% lower than the state median of $90,974. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 20% lower. The poverty rate stands at 10.3%. This is 4% higher than the state poverty rate of 9.9%. The unemployment rate is 16.0%. This is 273% higher than the state rate of 4.3%. The median home value is $195,700. Housing costs are 46% lower than the state median of $360,700. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.1x. 88.1% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 31% higher than the state average of 67.2%.

Race & Ethnicity

Highland County has a predominantly White (non-Hispanic) population, comprising 94.4% of all residents. Asian residents account for 3.1%. The White (non-Hispanic) population is significantly higher than the state average (94.4% vs 59.0%). The Asian population (3.1%) is well below the state average of 6.8%.

Education

35.5% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 14% lower than the state rate of 41.5%. Nationally, 35.0% of adults hold at least a bachelor's degree. The high school graduation rate (or equivalent) is 89.3%.