Roanoke County

Nestled in the heart of Virginia's Blue Ridge, the Roanoke County of today is the product of a long and varied history.

Roanoke County is a vibrant, innovative, and scenic community that values its citizens, heritage, and quality of life. 

The land itself was carved out of an ancient mountain range which left a great basin of fertile ground at the foot of Appalachia.

Visit the following pages to learn more about planning your next visit to Roanoke County in Virginia's Blue Ridge. 

Maintaining excellent schools, ensuring effective public safety, and promoting competitive economic development are top priorities for the county. Adaptive administration, regional cooperation, and public-private partnerships are leading the way.

Roanoke County is fortunate to have an abundance of recreational activities and high-quality, award-winning fine arts and cultural organizations.

Facilities for meetings, conferences, and conventions also abound, making Roanoke County the regional hub for such gatherings.

The charming Town of Vinton is also located within Roanoke County and has its own unique culture and history visitors will enjoy. Learn more about Vinton>

Year-round activities, events, and exhibits increase the quality of life in the Roanoke Valley and further the attraction to the area, consistently voted one of the best places in America to work and play.

History of Roanoke County

Statistics & General Info

Population: 96,929 (as of 2020 Census)

Towns: Vinton

Unincorporated Communities: Back Creek, Bent Mountain, Bonsack, Catawba, Cave Spring, Clearbrook, Fort Lewis, Glenvar, Hanging Rock, Hollins, Masons Cove, Mount Pleasant, Oak Grove, Penn Forest, Poages Mill, Read Mountain

Surrounding Counties: Bedford County, Botetourt County, Craig County, Floyd County, Franklin County, Montgomery County

Founded: 1838

Education: 16 Public Elementary Schools, 5 Public Middle Schools, 5 Public High Schools - William Byrd High School, Cave Spring High School, Hidden Valley School, Northside High School, Glenvar High School

District: 5th & 9th Congressional Districts 

Type of Government: County Administrator & Elected Board of Supervisors

Land Area: 251 square miles