Roanoke, Virginia is an independent city located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains in southwest Virginia. According to the Wikipedia page for Roanoke, the city had an estimated population of 99,572 as of 2021, making it the largest municipality in western Virginia and the ninth-largest city in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
History
Roanoke was first established in 1852 when the Virginia legislature chartered the town of Big Lick, named for the large outcropping of salt that attracted local wildlife. In 1882, the town was renamed Roanoke and officially incorporated as an independent city. The arrival of the railroad quickly transformed Roanoke into a bustling hub of commerce and industry.
The city experienced massive population growth around the turn of the 20th century. In 1900, Roanoke’s population was around 21,000 residents. By 1920, the population had skyrocketed to over 50,000 due to immigration and the city’s booming rail industry. Roanoke continued growing steadily throughout the 20th century before peaking at just over 100,000 residents in the 1970 census.
Demographics
According to 2019 data from the U.S. Census Bureau, Roanoke had an estimated population of 99,572 residents, making it the largest independent city in the state of Virginia, ahead of neighboring Lynchburg (82,168) and the state capital of Richmond (226,610).
Roanoke’s population is diverse, with census data showing the following racial/ethnic breakdown as of 2019:
- White: 60.5%
- Black or African American: 28.8%
- Hispanic or Latino: 6.4%
- Asian: 2.2%
- Two or more races: 2.5%
The median age in Roanoke is 39.2 years old. 22.7% of the population is under age 18, while 16.1% is aged 65 or older. There are slightly more women than men, with women comprising 52.5% of the population compared to 47.5% men.
Economy
For much of its history, Roanoke’s economy was dominated by the railroad industry. Today, the city’s economy is more diverse. According to the Roanoke Valley-Alleghany Regional Commission, some of the major industries and employers in Roanoke include:
- Health care
- Education
- Professional, scientific and technical services
- Manufacturing
- Retail trade
- Social assistance
Some of the largest employers in the city include Carilion Clinic, Kroger, Norfolk Southern, Roanoke College, Randolph College, local government, and Kraft Heinz.
In recent years, Roanoke has put extensive efforts into revitalizing its downtown area. New businesses like restaurants, breweries, apartments and hotels have helped drive economic growth and attract young professionals to live and work downtown.
Culture and Landmarks
Roanoke enjoys a thriving arts and culture scene. One of the city’s most iconic landmarks is the Roanoke Star, which sits on Mill Mountain overlooking the city. First constructed in 1949, the 88-foot tall neon star is a beloved symbol of Roanoke.
Roanoke is also home to the Taubman Museum of Art, which houses an impressive collection of American art, and the O. Winston Link Museum, celebrating the photography of O. Winston Link. The scenic Blue Ridge Parkway runs through the mountains just outside Roanoke, offering plenty of hiking, biking, and beautiful vistas.
Sports are a major part of Roanoke’s culture as well. The city is home to the Salem Red Sox minor league baseball team and the Roanoke Rail Yard Dawgs hockey team.
Conclusion
With its beautiful mountain setting, diversity, economic growth and vibrant arts scene, Roanoke continues to thrive as the cultural heart of southwest Virginia. The “Star City” offers a high quality of life and remains a popular destination for both visitors and new residents alike.
To learn more, visit the City of Roanoke’s website or Facebook page. Discover all there is to see and do in Roanoke by visiting Visit Roanoke Valley.