Meet the Communities of Washington County, VA
Have you fallen in love with this stunning region in Virginia and are ready to make the move? Here are three places to consider calling home.
Ahhh, Washington County. Here, not only will you find the relaxing lifestyle you are looking for – think sitting on your porch swing on a crisp autumn evening, listening to the birds chirping and gazing at the views of the Blue Ridge Mountains – but you’ll also be met with friendly neighbors, job opportunities, outdoor recreation activities and more. Have we piqued your interest? Let’s learn a little more about the communities that call this county of nearly 54,000 residents home.
Grow With Washington County
Agriculture is a prominent industry in Washington County. The area
is home to 1,600 farms (the third-most in Virginia) and approximately
1,000 agriculture workers. Top commodities include eggs, livestock,
dairy, crops and Christmas trees.
In This Article
Abingdon
POPULATION: 8,200 | MEDIAN HOME VALUE: $194,000
The majestic Blue Ridge Mountains surround Abingdon, a town known for its creative vibe and historic architecture and charm. Abingdon is one of the trailheads along the 34.3-mile Virginia Creeper Trail, which accommodates hikers, cyclists and horseback riders.
Abingdon’s 20-block Historic District is highlighted by homes dating to the late 1700s, and it is home to longtime architectural wonders, such as Barter Theatre, the Arts Depot and The Martha Washington Inn & Spa.
Abingdon Farmers Market is open on Saturdays year-round downtown, and the town is known for a variety of annual celebrations, such as the Washington County Fair in September and the Virginia Highlands Festival in late July, which celebrates southwest Virginia’s arts, culture and history.
Glade Spring
POPULATION: 1,400 | MEDIAN HOME VALUE: $137,000
Located off exit 29 of Interstate 81, Glade Spring boasts the motto “This is the Place.” And quite a place it is. The community features a blend of new and old architecture, such as the modern-looking Patrick Henry High School and the old-time Glade Spring Commercial Historic District, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Residents have access to a popular Glade Spring Community Center, and the Glade Spring Farmers Market, which takes place on the Town Square from April through October, is a local favorite. One of the community’s most successful businesses is Utility Trailer Manufacturing Co., which started its operation in Glade Spring in 2000 with 300 employees. Today, the global manufacturer employs 600 people.
Damascus
POPULATION: 800 | MEDIAN HOME VALUE: $129,000
The Appalachian Trail runs right along Laurel Avenue in Damascus, and many hikers hop off the path to stop in town and visit its restaurants, shops, grocery stores, outfitters, and bed and breakfasts.
The trail is a vital part of the area’s quality of life, which is why the town is part of the national 42,000-member Appalachian Trail Conservancy that oversees the management and preservation of the trail.
This isn’t the only trail hikers tread in the area, though. In fact, Damascus, established in 1904, is known as “Trail Town USA,” and an annual Trail Days festival takes place every May, drawing about 20,000 people.
Other Communities to Consider
Officially classified as an unincorporated village, Mendota is home to approximately 460 residents. This corridor community leads folks to recreational opportunities on Clinch Mountain and the Holston River. Plus, the Mendota Trail, a 12.5-mile exercise venue for hikers and bikers, is a must-visit – and return – for residents.
Meadowview is a census designated place with a population of about 1,000 residents. The community primarily serves as a bedroom community for people who work in Abingdon and Bristol. It provides privacy, peace and quiet, and a laid-back atmosphere.
Saltville, aptly named for its abundant salt marshes, has been producing salt since the early 1800s. The community sits in a scenic valley, and it houses approximately 2,100 residents. Locals can find the Museum of the Middle Appalachians in the area’s downtown.
