Southwest Virginia Area Information

Tucked in the ancient Appalachian Mountains of Southwest Virginia (SWVA) is a vibrant culture of tradition, food, music, and craft. It’s a region of spectacular views, abundant outdoor recreation, and rich natural resources. Rooted deep in history, this culture is authentic, distinctive, and alive.

Southwest Virginia boasts 19 counties, four independent cities, and 53 towns located on the southern and western border of Virginia. 

Its 8,600 square miles – more than a fifth of Virginia’s total and larger than eight US states – are located along mountain ridges and in fertile valleys, with two national parks, 11 state parks, and over a thousand square miles of national and state forests. 

It’s where you’ll find a culture of music and craft that is authentic, distinctive, and alive. A natural landscape that is breathtaking in its magnitude and scope. A place where the pace of life is slower and people are more friendly. A premier place for outdoor recreation of all kinds. 

By capitalizing on the unique qualities of our region, Southwest Virginia utilizes its cultural and natural assets to build a comprehensive, long-term, sustainable economy through a variety of initiatives. The area is known nationwide as a place where the cost of living is low, but the quality of life is high.

An abundance of higher education exists within the small area with nationally accredited universities such as Virginia Tech, Hollins University, Radford University and Roanoke College just to name a few. Schools, too, are held to high standards and with an above average graduation rate.

Its economic growth also becomes centered due to these universities and the core that is medical technology research with the Carilion Health hospitals and clinics. 

A wonderful place to call home and a beautiful place to raise a family, retire or simply live.

If our little slice of heaven in this corner of Virginia sounds like a place you’d like to call YOUR home, just let us know. We will be more than happy to make that dream come true.