Median Income
$65,703
13% lower than US avg
Violent Crime
429/100K
13% higher than US avg
Bachelor's+
41.6%
23% higher than US avg
Median Rent
$1,755
51% higher than US avg
Obesity Rate
30.4%
5% lower than US avg
Unemployment
7.2%
100% higher than US avg
Poverty Rate
32.4%
161% higher than US avg
How Rio Compares to the U.S. Average (100% = U.S. avg)
People
Population1,213
Median Age28.7 yrs
Density1,956/mi²
Male / Female43% / 57%
Largest GroupWhite 72%
Veterans3.6%
Economy
C
Median Income$65,703
Per Capita$43,436
Unemployment7.2%
Poverty32.4%
Commute17 min
Housing
B
Rent$1,755
Ownership1.0%
Zillow$507,780
Housing Units613
Rent Burden33.1%
Crime
F
Violent429/100K
Property3,042/100K
Health
Obesity30.4%
Uninsured7.7%
Smoking8.7%
Depression19.9%
Heart Disease4.3%
Climate
Avg Temp59°F (15°C)
AQI35 (Good)
Rain41.6 in/yr
Sunny Days293/yr
Elevation511 ft (156 m)
Education
A
Bachelor's+41.6%
High School+95.3%
Graduate+19.2%
School Score5.58
Community
2024 VoteR 15% / D 83%
Commute17 min
Broadband95.9%
EV Stations58
Libraries2
Is Rio a Good Place to Live?
Based on current data, Rio receives an overall livability score of 2.8 out of 5.0, earning a grade of C+. Key strengths include a highly educated population, abundant sunshine, high health insurance coverage, strong internet connectivity. Areas to be aware of include above-average unemployment, an elevated poverty rate. Rio has some notable strengths but also faces challenges that prospective residents should consider.
Economy & Jobs
The median household income in Rio is $65,703, 13% below the national average of $75,149. The unemployment rate of 7.2% is somewhat elevated compared to the national rate of 3.6%. The poverty rate of 32.4% exceeds the national average of 12.4%, indicating economic hardship for a significant portion of the population. Workers commute an average of 17 minutes, shorter than most U.S. cities.
Cost of Living & Housing
Renters pay a median of $1,755 per month, significantly above the national average of $1,163.
Safety & Crime
The violent crime rate of 429 per 100,000 is above the national average of 380 / something for prospective residents to consider. Property crime occurs at a rate of 3,042 per 100,000, 55% above the national average.
Education
Educational attainment is solid, with 41.6% holding a bachelor's degree or higher, near the national average. 95.3% have completed high school. Area schools have an average test score of 5.6/10.
Climate & Weather
Rio enjoys a moderate climate with an average annual temperature of 59°F. Winters average 38°F in January while summers reach 79°F in July. With 293 sunny days per year, residents enjoy well above the national average of sunshine. Annual precipitation totals 41.6 inches. Air quality is rated Good with a median AQI of 35.
Rio has a population of 1,213 with a density of 1,956 people per square mile, spread across 0.6 square miles. The median age is 28.7 years, 26% younger than the national median of 38.9. The gender split is 56.6% female and 43.4% male. The city is predominantly White (71.9%), with 1.2% Hispanic, 23.6% Black. English is the primary language spoken at home by 91.6% of residents, while 8.4% speak Spanish. 3.6% of the population are veterans, below the national rate of 6.0%. 21.4% of residents have a disability (above the 13.0% national average). 96.5% have health insurance coverage.
Population
28.7yrs
Median Age
26% below US avg
Language Spoken at Home
English Only
91.6%
17% above US avg
Spanish
8.4%
37% below US avg
The median household income in Rio is $65,703, which is 13% below the national average of $75,149. Per capita income is $43,436 (above the $39,052 national figure). The average weekly wage is $1,384. The unemployment rate is 7.2% (above the 3.6% US average). 32.4% of residents live below the poverty line, higher than the national rate of 12.4%. The area has 2,587 business establishments, including 323 restaurants. The cost of living index is 101.1, roughly in line with the national average. Workers commute an average of 17 minutes (shorter than the 28-minute US average). 6.6% of workers work from home (below the 15.2% national rate).
Income
| Median HH Income | $65,703 |
| 13% below US avg |
| Per Capita Income | $43,436 |
| Avg Weekly Wage | $1,384 |
| IRS Avg AGI | $122,281 |
| Gini Index | 0.539 (0=equal, 1=unequal) |
Employment & Poverty
| Unemployment | 7.2% |
| 100% above US avg |
| Poverty Rate | 32.4% |
| 161% above US avg |
| Establishments (County) | 2,587 |
Business (County)
| Restaurants | 323 |
| Healthcare | 172 |
| Retail | 282 |
| Manufacturing | 49 |
Tax & Cost of Living
| Property Tax (IRS) | $8,207 |
| 134% above US avg |
| Cost of Living | 101.10 (100=avg) |
Commute & Transportation
| Commute Time | 16.7 min |
| Drive Alone | 67.9% |
| Public Transit | 0.0% |
| Work from Home | 6.6% |
Zillow estimates the typical home value at $507,780. Monthly rent averages $1,755 (51% above the national average of $1,163). Fair market rent ranges from $1,181 for a one-bedroom to $1,369 for a two-bedroom apartment. 1.0% of housing units are owner-occupied (below the 65.4% national rate). There are 613 total housing units in the city. The median year a home was built is 1995. The average annual property tax is $8,207 (higher than the $3,500 national average). 33.1% of renters spend 30% or more of their income on housing.
Real Estate Market (Redfin)
Rental Costs
| Census Median Rent | $1,755 |
| 51% above US avg |
| Rent Burden | 33.1% |
HUD Fair Market Rent
| Studio | $1,137 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,181 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,369 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,787 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,126 |
Ownership & Property
| Homeownership | 1.0% |
| Owner-Occupied | 1.0% |
| Renter-Occupied | 99.0% |
| Housing Units | 613 |
| Median Year Built | 1995 |
Property Tax
| Avg Tax (IRS) | $8,207 |
| 134% above US avg |
In Rio, 30.4% of adults are obese, below the national rate of 32.1%. 9.8% have diabetes. Heart disease affects 4.3% of residents, below the national average. 30.0% have high blood pressure. 8.7% are current smokers (below the 14.0% national rate). 14.8% report binge drinking. 19.8% are physically inactive, below the national average. 19.9% report depression. 14.8% experience frequent mental distress. 7.7% of residents lack health insurance. The primary care physician ratio is 1:351. The dentist ratio is 1:1,008. 100.0% of residents have access to exercise opportunities. The food environment index is 8.0 out of 10.
Health Metrics: Rio vs U.S. Average (%)
Chronic Conditions
| Obesity | 30.4% |
| 5% below US avg |
| Diabetes | 9.8% |
| Heart Disease | 4.3% |
| High Blood Pressure | 30.0% |
| Asthma | 10.5% |
| COPD | 4.0% |
| Cancer | 6.4% |
| Stroke | 2.5% |
Behaviors & Mental Health
| Smoking | 8.7% |
| 38% below US avg |
| Binge Drinking | 14.8% |
| Physical Inactivity | 19.8% |
| Depression | 19.9% |
| Mental Distress | 14.8% |
| Physical Distress | 10.3% |
| Short Sleep | 35.8% |
Healthcare Access
| Insurance Rate | 96.5% |
| Uninsured | 7.7% |
| 10% below US avg |
| Primary Care | 1:351 |
| Dentists | 1:1,008 |
| Mental Health | 1:83 |
| Checkup Rate | 79.0% |
| Dental Visits | 71.1% |
| Premature Death | 6,526/100K |
Food & Exercise
| Food Environment | 8.0/10 |
| Exercise Access | 100.0% |
| Healthcare Facilities | 172 |
Rio has a violent crime rate of 429 per 100,000 residents, 13% above the national average of 380. Property crime stands at 3,042 per 100,000, 55% above the U.S. average. The county recorded 1 fatal traffic crashes. Overall, Rio receives a safety grade of F.
Crime Rates: Rio vs U.S. Average (per 100,000)
Violent Crime
| Total Violent | 428.5/100K |
| 13% above US avg |
| |
Property Crime
| Total Property | 3,042.1/100K |
| 55% above US avg |
Traffic Safety
| Fatal Crashes (County/yr) | 1 |
| Avg Accident Severity | 0.0 / 4.0 |
Safety Score
| Safety Grade | F |
| Safety Score | 1.0 / 5.0 |
Rio enjoys a temperate climate with an average annual temperature of 59°F (15°C). Winters average 38°F in January while summers reach 79°F in July. The area gets 293 sunny days per year, well above the U.S. average of 205 / making it one of the sunnier locations in the country. Annual precipitation totals 41.6 inches. Air quality is rated Good with a median AQI of 35. The city sits at an elevation of 511 feet.
Temperature
38°F Jan (4°C)
79°F Jul (26°C)
| Annual Average | 58.7°F |
| 9% above US avg |
| January Average | 38°F (4°C) |
| July Average | 79°F (26°C) |
| Sunny Days | 293 days/yr |
Geography
| Elevation | 511 ft (156 m) |
| Area | 0.6 sq mi (1.6 km²) |
| Population Density | 1,956/sq mi |
| Coordinates | 38.0805°N, 78.4732°W |
| Timezone | America/New_York |
| County | Charlottesville city County |
| Nearest Airport | Shenandoah Valley Regional (SHD) 26 miles away |
Precipitation & Snow
Annual Rainfall
41.6"
10% above US avg
Wettest Month (Jul)
4.65"
Air Quality
| AQI Median | 35.0 |
| Rating | Good |
Natural Hazard Risk
| Overall Risk | Very Low |
| Risk Score | 24.3 / 100 |
| Social Vulnerability | 16.6 / 100 |
| Community Resilience | 92.5 / 100 |
Hazard Breakdown
| Tornado |
Very Low |
| Hurricane |
Relatively Low |
| Earthquake |
Relatively Low |
| Wildfire |
Very Low |
| Flood |
Very Low |
| Hail |
Very Low |
| Strong Wind |
Relatively High |
| Heat Wave |
Relatively Low |
| Winter Weather |
Relatively Low |
| Lightning |
Relatively Low |
| Ice Storm |
Very Low |
| Drought |
No Rating |
| Cold Wave |
Very Low |
| Landslide |
Very Low |
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.20 (Dec 2025)
Earthquake History
40 earthquakes (M2.5+) within 150 km since 1990.
Strongest: M5.8. Most recent: M3.0 on May 6, 2025.
| Aug 23, 2011 |
11 km SSW of Mineral, Virginia |
M5.8 |
51 km |
| Aug 25, 2011 |
8 km SW of Mineral, Virginia |
M4.5 |
47 km |
| Aug 24, 2011 |
11 km SSW of Mineral, Virginia |
M4.2 |
49 km |
| Oct 21, 1998 |
13 km S of Dillwyn, Virginia |
M3.8 |
73 km |
| Mar 15, 1991 |
7 km NNW of Goochland, Virginia |
M3.8 |
62 km |
| May 5, 2003 |
Virginia |
M3.6 |
68 km |
| Sep 1, 2011 |
7 km SSW of Mineral, Virginia |
M3.4 |
50 km |
| Aug 24, 2011 |
16 km NNW of Goochland, Virginia |
M3.4 |
54 km |
| Sep 22, 2001 |
5 km E of Pantops, Virginia |
M3.2 |
9 km |
| May 22, 2014 |
15 km ENE of Cumberland, Virginia |
M3.1 |
71 km |
| Jan 30, 2012 |
9 km SSE of Louisa, Virginia |
M3.1 |
46 km |
| Jan 17, 2016 |
3 km NE of Ranson, West Virginia |
M3.0 |
149 km |
| Mar 26, 2012 |
13 km S of Louisa, Virginia |
M3.0 |
47 km |
| Oct 2, 2010 |
10 km NNW of Ashland, Virginia |
M3.0 |
87 km |
| Oct 12, 2011 |
9 km S of Louisa, Virginia |
M3.0 |
46 km |
| May 6, 2025 |
8 km S of Dillwyn, Virginia |
M3.0 |
69 km |
| Apr 21, 1998 |
1 km NNW of Free Union, Virginia |
M2.8 |
13 km |
| Aug 23, 2011 |
9 km SSW of Mineral, Virginia |
M2.8 |
50 km |
| Mar 15, 2015 |
6 km SW of Mineral, Virginia |
M2.8 |
48 km |
| Jan 14, 2025 |
1 km NNE of Wyndham, Virginia |
M2.8 |
87 km |
Source: USGS (M2.5+, 1990–2025)
Hurricane History
4 hurricanes (Cat 1+) within 500 km since 1980.
Strongest: Category 1. Most recent: Irene (2011, Cat 1).
| Year |
Name |
Category |
Closest |
| 2011 |
Irene |
Category 1 |
284 km |
| 2003 |
Isabel |
Category 1 |
168 km |
| 1999 |
Floyd |
Category 1 |
253 km |
| 1986 |
Charley |
Category 1 |
280 km |
Source: NOAA IBTrACS (Cat 1+, 1980–2026)
Tornado History
199 tornadoes (EF0+) within 100 km since 1950.
Strongest: EF4. Total: 17 fatalities, 56 injuries.
| Date |
Rating |
Distance |
Fatalities |
| Sep 24, 2001 |
EF4 |
69 km |
0 |
| Sep 17, 2004 |
EF3 |
76 km |
0 |
| Apr 1, 1998 |
EF3 |
78 km |
2 |
| Oct 18, 1990 |
EF3 |
50 km |
0 |
| Jul 25, 1985 |
EF3 |
14 km |
0 |
| Jul 9, 1977 |
EF3 |
58 km |
0 |
| Mar 21, 1976 |
EF3 |
32 km |
0 |
| Jun 16, 1966 |
EF3 |
68 km |
0 |
| Sep 30, 1959 |
EF3 |
25 km |
1 |
| Sep 30, 1959 |
EF3 |
13 km |
11 |
| Sep 30, 1959 |
EF3 |
28 km |
0 |
| Apr 19, 2019 |
EF2 |
58 km |
0 |
| Apr 28, 2011 |
EF2 |
77 km |
0 |
| May 8, 2008 |
EF2 |
89 km |
0 |
| Sep 17, 2004 |
EF2 |
85 km |
0 |
| Sep 17, 2004 |
EF2 |
23 km |
0 |
| Sep 17, 2004 |
EF2 |
53 km |
0 |
| Sep 17, 2004 |
EF2 |
93 km |
0 |
| Sep 17, 2004 |
EF2 |
31 km |
0 |
| Sep 8, 2004 |
EF2 |
79 km |
0 |
Source: NOAA SPC (EF0+, 1950–2024)
Wildfire History
20 wildfires (100+ acres) within 100 km.
Largest: PINNACLES (24,792 ac, 2000).
| Year |
Name |
Acres |
Distance |
| 2000 |
PINNACLES |
24,792 |
59 km |
| 2016 |
MOUNT PLEASANT |
11,001 |
73 km |
| 2016 |
ROCKY MTN FIRE 2016 |
9,299 |
31 km |
| 2024 |
WATERFALL MOUNTAIN |
9,251 |
67 km |
| 2014 |
ARCHER KNOB RX |
6,093 |
79 km |
| 2022 |
UNNAMED |
5,893 |
79 km |
| 2021 |
UNNAMED |
5,345 |
81 km |
| 2015 |
UNNAMED |
5,149 |
81 km |
| 2013 |
UNNAMED |
4,687 |
75 km |
| 2002 |
FULTZ RUN |
4,638 |
49 km |
| 2008 |
ST MARYS |
4,373 |
62 km |
| 1999 |
SHOP RUN |
4,261 |
29 km |
| 1986 |
BIG RUN |
4,161 |
30 km |
| 2018 |
UNNAMED |
4,022 |
75 km |
| 2012 |
SHIPWRECK |
3,779 |
50 km |
| 2021 |
UNNAMED |
3,667 |
52 km |
| 2006 |
PEAVINE COMPLEX |
2,950 |
93 km |
| 2014 |
CUB RUN RX |
2,868 |
52 km |
| 2011 |
VALLEY |
2,514 |
68 km |
| 2019 |
UNNAMED |
2,460 |
70 km |
Source: NIFC/IRWIN (100+ acres)
Monthly Weather
| Month |
Avg Temperature |
Precipitation |
Summary |
| January |
38°F (4°C) |
3.2 in |
|
| February |
38°F (3°C) |
3.0 in |
Coldest, Driest |
| March |
46°F (8°C) |
3.7 in |
|
| April |
55°F (13°C) |
3.2 in |
|
| May |
64°F (18°C) |
4.3 in |
|
| June |
72°F (22°C) |
3.9 in |
|
| July |
79°F (26°C) |
4.7 in |
Warmest, Wettest |
| August |
75°F (24°C) |
3.9 in |
|
| September |
68°F (20°C) |
4.1 in |
|
| October |
57°F (14°C) |
4.1 in |
|
| November |
47°F (8°C) |
3.5 in |
|
| December |
39°F (4°C) |
3.1 in |
|
Rio has a seasonal temperature swing of 41°F / from 38°F in February to 79°F in July. Total annual precipitation is 44.6 inches, with July being the wettest month (4.7") and February the driest (3.0").
Average costs for common services in Rio. Prices are estimated based on regional cost of living data and may vary by provider.
Healthcare
| Doctor Visit (Primary Care) |
$253 ($152–$404) |
| Specialist Visit |
$354 ($202–$556) |
| Urgent Care Visit |
$202 ($101–$354) |
| Emergency Room Visit |
$2,224 ($809–$5,055) |
| Dental Cleaning |
$131 ($76–$202) |
| Dental Filling |
$253 ($152–$404) |
View all 40 services
Auto Repair
| Oil Change (Conventional) |
$46 ($25–$76) |
| Oil Change (Synthetic) |
$76 ($51–$121) |
| Brake Pad Replacement |
$303 ($152–$506) |
| Tire Rotation |
$40 ($20–$76) |
| New Tires (Set of 4) |
$607 ($404–$1,011) |
| Battery Replacement |
$202 ($101–$354) |
View all 18 services
Home Services
| Plumber (Per Hour) |
$101 ($61–$152) |
| Electrician (Per Hour) |
$91 ($51–$142) |
| HVAC Repair |
$404 ($152–$809) |
| HVAC System Install |
$7,077 ($4,044–$12,132) |
| Roof Repair |
$1,011 ($404–$2,022) |
| Roof Replacement |
$9,099 ($5,561–$15,165) |
View all 25 services
Legal
| Divorce (Uncontested) |
$1,517 ($506–$3,539) |
| Divorce (Contested) |
$15,165 ($5,055–$30,330) |
| DUI Defense |
$5,055 ($2,022–$10,110) |
| Bankruptcy (Chapter 7) |
$1,517 ($809–$3,033) |
| Will Preparation |
$506 ($202–$1,011) |
| Trust Preparation |
$2,528 ($1,011–$5,055) |
View all 12 services
Personal Care
| Men's Haircut |
$25 ($15–$46) |
| Women's Haircut |
$56 ($30–$101) |
| Hair Coloring (Full) |
$152 ($76–$253) |
| Manicure |
$25 ($15–$46) |
| Pedicure |
$40 ($25–$66) |
| Massage (1 Hour) |
$81 ($51–$131) |
View all 12 services
Food & Grocery
| Gallon of Milk (per gallon) |
$4.15 ($3.03–$5.56) |
| Dozen Eggs (per dozen) |
$3.54 ($2.53–$5.06) |
| Loaf of Bread |
$3.84 ($2.53–$5.56) |
| Chicken Breast (per lb) |
$4.55 ($3.03–$6.57) |
| Ground Beef (per lb) |
$5.56 ($4.04–$7.58) |
| Rice (per lb) |
$1.01 ($0.61–$1.82) |
View all 20 services
Utilities
| Electricity (Monthly) |
$142 ($81–$253) |
| Natural Gas (Monthly) |
$71 ($30–$152) |
| Water/Sewer (Monthly) |
$71 ($40–$121) |
| Internet (Monthly) |
$71 ($40–$101) |
| Cell Phone Plan (Monthly) |
$66 ($30–$101) |
| Cable TV (Monthly) |
$86 ($51–$152) |
View all 8 services
Transportation
| Monthly Parking (Downtown) |
$202 ($76–$506) |
| Car Insurance (Annual) |
$2,022 ($1,213–$3,539) |
| Bus Pass (Monthly) |
$71 ($30–$131) |
| Taxi/Uber (5-Mile Ride) |
$15 ($8.09–$25) |
| Car Registration (Annual) |
$101 ($30–$253) |
| Driver's License Renewal |
$30 ($15–$76) |
View all 8 services
Education & Childcare
| Daycare (Infant, Monthly) |
$1,213 ($607–$2,528) |
| Daycare (Toddler, Monthly) |
$1,011 ($506–$2,022) |
| After-School Care (Monthly) |
$404 ($202–$708) |
| Tutoring (Per Hour) |
$51 ($25–$101) |
| SAT/ACT Prep Course |
$1,011 ($404–$2,528) |
| Private School (K-12, Annual) |
$12,638 ($5,055–$30,330) |
View all 8 services
Pets
| Vet Visit (Routine Checkup) |
$61 ($30–$101) |
| Dog Vaccination (Annual) |
$101 ($51–$202) |
| Dog Grooming |
$61 ($30–$101) |
| Pet Boarding (Per Night) |
$40 ($20–$76) |
| Dog Spay/Neuter |
$303 ($152–$506) |
| Cat Spay/Neuter |
$202 ($101–$404) |
View all 9 services
Childcare
| Center-Based (monthly) |
| Infant | $1,188 |
| Toddler | $991 |
| Preschool | $990 |
| Family Childcare (monthly) |
| Infant | $681 |
| Toddler | $627 |
| Preschool | $638 |
Source: DOL Women's Bureau (2022)
Frequently Asked Questions About Rio
What is the population of Rio?
Rio has a population of 1,213 residents and is located in Virginia. The population density is 1,956 people per square mile, spread across 0.6 square miles. The median age of residents is 28.7 years, which is younger than the national median of 38.9 years. The population is 56.6% female and 43.4% male.
Is Rio expensive to live in?
Rio has a cost of living roughly in line with the national average, with an index of 101.1 (baseline: 100). The median household income is $65,703, 13% below the national average of $75,149. Renters pay a median of $1,755 per month, above the national average of $1,163.
Is Rio safe?
The violent crime rate in Rio is 429 per 100,000 residents, above the national average of 380. Prospective residents should research specific neighborhoods, as crime rates can vary significantly within the city. Property crime occurs at a rate of 3,042 per 100,000 (above the national average). Overall, Rio receives a safety grade of F based on combined crime data.
What is the weather like in Rio?
Rio enjoys a temperate climate with an average annual temperature of 59°F (15°C). Winter temperatures average 38°F in January, while summers reach an average of 79°F in July. The area receives 293 sunny days per year, well above the national average of 205. Annual rainfall totals 41.6 inches. Air quality is rated Good with a median Air Quality Index (AQI) of 35.
How is the job market in Rio?
The unemployment rate in Rio is 7.2%, somewhat above the national average of 3.6%. Job seekers may face moderate competition. The average weekly wage is $1,384. There are 2,587 business establishments in the area, including 323 restaurants and food service locations. The average commute time is 17 minutes, and 6.6% of workers work from home.
How much does housing cost in Rio?
For renters, the median monthly rent is $1,755. Fair market rent is $1,181 for a 1-bedroom and $1,369 for a 2-bedroom apartment. The homeownership rate is 1.0%. The average annual property tax is $8,207.
How are the schools in Rio?
Schools in Rio score 5.6 out of 10 on standardized testing, near the national average. 41.6% of adults in Rio hold a bachelor's degree or higher, above the national average of 33.7%. 95.3% have completed high school. 19.2% hold a graduate or professional degree.
How healthy is Rio?
The obesity rate in Rio is 30.4% (below the national rate of 32.1%). 8.7% of adults are smokers. 19.8% are physically inactive. 19.9% of residents report depression. 7.7% lack health insurance. 100.0% of residents have access to exercise opportunities. The primary care physician ratio is 1:351.
What is transportation like in Rio?
The average commute in Rio is 17 minutes, shorter than the national average of 28 minutes. 67.9% of workers drive alone to work, and 6.6% work from home.
What are the demographics of Rio?
The racial and ethnic makeup of Rio is 71.9% White, 23.6% Black or African American, 1.2% Hispanic or Latino. 91.6% of residents speak only English at home, while 8.4% speak Spanish. 3.6% of the population are military veterans. 21.4% of residents have a disability. 96.5% have health insurance coverage.