Affordable & Income-Based Housing in Roanoke

Affordability in Roanoke, VA

The median household income in Roanoke is $55,378 and the median monthly rent is $996, according to Census ACS 5-Year data (2024). Nearly half of residents rent their homes, with 48% of households renting -- a strong indicator of an active rental market in this city.

Safety

According to FBI Crime Data Explorer, the Roanoke Police Department reported a violent crime rate of 620 per 100,000 residents in 2024. Crime rates are not directly comparable across cities due to differences in how jurisdictions define and report offenses.

Getting Around Roanoke

The assisted properties in Roanoke score as Somewhat Walkable (Walk Score 55), Some Transit (Transit Score 33), and a Bike Score of 30 out of 100, according to Walk Score. These scores reflect conditions in the areas around the assisted properties specifically.

Schools

Roanoke is served by 48 schools across 5 districts, including 28 elementary, 8 middle, 5 high, and 7 other schools, according to NCES Common Core of Data. Quality varies by school and district, so renters should check which schools are assigned to any specific address they are considering.

Cost of Living in Roanoke, VA

The median household income in Roanoke is $55,378 per year, and the median asking rent citywide is $996 per month, according to Census ACS 5-Year estimates. Income-based housing in the city is designed to serve renters who may find market-rate rents a stretch relative to local earnings.

• Median household income: $55,378/year (Census ACS 5-Year)
• Median monthly rent: $996/month (Census ACS 5-Year)
• Renter households: 48% of occupied housing units (Census ACS 5-Year)

Nearly half of Roanoke residents rent, reflecting a strong rental market where affordable and income-restricted options can play an important role in housing stability.

Environment and Flood Risk

All 15 assisted properties in Roanoke were mapped for flood zone exposure, and none are located in a high-risk flood zone. Renters in these communities face minimal flood-related environmental risk based on available flood data.