What to know when moving to Roanoke, VA
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
In Virginia, the state-level crime rates indicate a generally safer environment compared to national averages. The violent crime rate stands at 203.3 incidents per 100,000 people, which is 37.5% lower than the national average of 325.3. Property crime also shows a favorable comparison, with a rate of 1346.3 per 100,000, which is 13% lower than the national rate of 1546.9.
- Violent crime: 203.3 per 100k vs. national 325.3
- Property crime: 1346.3 per 100k vs. national 1546.9
- Notable trend: Homicide rate down 43.2% since 2022
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for Virginia).
Schools & Higher Ed
Roanoke has access to a total of seven postsecondary institutions in the area, providing a variety of educational opportunities. Notable nearby schools include ECPI University - Roanoke and Virginia Western Community College, among others. The educational landscape is supported by both local and regional institutions.
- Postsecondary institutions: 7
- With College Scorecard data: 7
- Notable schools: ECPI University - Roanoke, Virginia Western Community College, Hollins University
Source: ArcGIS Postsecondary School Locations (NCES) + College Scorecard (ED).
Weather & Getting Outside
Roanoke experiences an annual average temperature of 76°F, with summer highs reaching up to 97°F. Rainfall averages about 28.1 inches per year, with around 93 rainy days. Winter is relatively mild, with only about 0.3 inches of snow annually. This climate supports a range of outdoor activities.
- Parks & outdoor spots worth checking out:
- Mill Mountain Star - 4.8 stars (4808 reviews)
- Mill Mountain Park - 4.7 stars (3359 reviews)
- Virginia Museum of Transportation - 4.7 stars (1879 reviews)
- Explore Park - 4.7 stars (1691 reviews)
Sources: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.