Appalachia Calling: Why You Should Live in Washington County

In this stunning region nestled in the southwest corner of Virginia, residents enjoy a delightful blend of city and country living.

By Rebecca Treon on December 2, 2023

Jay Huron

Washington County, VA, is tucked away in the mountains of Virginia yet close to vibrant downtown centers, with amenities that locals love and newcomers are discovering. In the communities of Abingdon, Damascus and Glade Spring, residents can enjoy all four seasons, plug into a tight-knit community and have opportunities to pursue their passions. If you’re thinking about relocating to an area with plenty of opportunities to work and play, here’s why you should live in Washington County.

“This area has an unreal beauty, with its rolling mountains and its many farms,” says Gene Copenhaver of Copenhaver Brothers Farms. “It’s in Appalachia, but it’s a pretty diverse area; we have lots of outdoor recreation, independent restaurants, agriculture and beautiful scenery.” 

Lynne Harty

Through-Hiker Hub 

Washington County enjoys all four seasons and is considered one of the best places in the country to see fall colors. Even in the winter, low temps do not dip below 20 degrees, on average. With such appealing weather, it makes it easy to enjoy the region’s famous trail systems like the Virginia Creeper and the Appalachian Trail. 

Damascus, a popular stop along the trail, has become a hub for bikers and through-hikers, who find a comfortable place to stay overnight, restock their gear and replenish with food and drinks at one of the many local spots in town. 

“Damascus has the Appalachian Trail Days in May, a festival that celebrates hiking and the Appalachian Trail,” says Joy Munsey, assistant principal at the Washington County Career & Technical Education Center. “But there’s a lot more going on, not just hiking trails. There are ATV trails, too. Plus, we have the Holston and Clinch rivers, and those are popular for tubing, kayaking and fishing.” 

Affordable Neighborhoods 

And while the views are scenic, Washington County is still a fairly affordable place to live, especially compared to other parts of the country. In Abingdon, the average home value is $254,000; in Damascus, it’s $192,000; and in Glade Spring, it’s $180,000 (Zillow, July 2023). 

“My son has lived in Columbia, South Carolina, and in Charlotte, North Carolina, and my cost of living is certainly lower than his, particularly regarding property taxes,” Munsey says. 

Residents have diverse housing options to choose from, whether they are looking for downtown apartments, suburban neighborhoods or mountain home getaways. 

Even for newcomers, it’s easy to meet people in Washington County. The area boasts sports leagues, religious organizations and networking circles, serving as just a few of the connecting points in the region. 

Copenhaver suggests staying involved with civic organizations like the Washington County, VA Chamber of Commerce. The Kiwanis, Lions and Rotary clubs are also active in the area, Munsey adds. 

Jay Huron

Healthy Business Climate 

Speaking of the Chamber, it is one catalyst, along with the Small Business Development Center and the Virginia Highlands Small Business Incubator, for the region’s strong entrepreneurial ecosystem. 

“Our downtown area in Abingdon has several new locally owned businesses that have popped up,” Munsey says. “We have almost no chain restaurants, except for fast food, but the rest are all independent, family-owned places. I think we’re blessed with the eateries we have; it’s been good to see downtown stay active.” 

Bigger corporations are expanding here too, including Cardinal Glass, which announced that it is investing $40 million in its location in Oak Park Center for Business and Industry. 

As to the workforce behind those businesses, that’s where Munsey comes in. Washington County Public Schools offers several career pathways for students through its Washington County Career & Technical Education Center. 

The center offers nine program areas, including welding, auto body and auto servicing, cosmetology, criminal justice, culinary, advertising design, construction, engineering and health sciences. 

“We’re very fortunate to have all these program areas,” Munsey says. “We’re looking at 600 students in the building this coming year, with seven classes enrolled with the local community college, too.” 

Higher education options in the area include Emory & Henry and Virginia Highlands Community College. Between public schools and postsecondary opportunities, Washington County offers career mobility for anyone.