Growth and tranquility coexist in this Blue Ridge town
Nestled along the New River in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Pearisburg blends a location amidst southwest Virginia’s natural beauty and outdoor recreation with access to the diverse and bustling community of nearby Blacksburg, home of Virginia Tech. “The main draw to Pearisburg is the peaceful setting and proximity to the university, which drives pretty much the entirety of the New River Valley,” says local Realtor Dwight Atkinson of Nest Realty SWVA, who grew up in the region. The town is anchored by its small downtown strip of shops and eateries showcasing Appalachian character, while direct access to the New River and the Appalachian Trail offers abundant outdoor recreation for residents and locals. Atkinson describes Pearisburg as an emerging town. “The town has grown significantly, but it doesn’t feel like it because it’s spread out, so they’re able to absorb a lot of people. But Pearisburg still maintains a quiet, small-town feel to it,” says Atkinson.
Lower taxes and sticker prices attract buyers to Pearisburg
Lower asking prices for real estate are another draw to the area, Atkinson says. “You get more square footage for your dollar here compared to Blacksburg,” he says, adding that Blacksburg prices are comparable to vacation towns like Oak Island, North Carolina. “And we have lower taxes than Montgomery County.” Home prices can typically range from $100,000 to $560,000, though fixer-uppers may sell for less. Architecture also ranges; traditional styles include Cape Cods, ranch- and colonial-style homes. Larger styles often have heavy farmhouse influences and rambling layouts.
Above average academics and education in Giles County
Giles County Public Schools serve school-aged children in Pearisburg. The district earns a B overall rating from Niche. Kids can start their education at Macy McClaugherty Elementary School, which serves prekindergarten through seventh grade. Giles High School teaches about 550 students from eighth through 12th grades. Both earn B-minus grades from Niche. Home of the Spartans, GHS has above-average ratings for its sports programs, college preparation and academics. While Virginia Tech—lauded for its high-performing engineering program—is a primary employer for the area, the region also attracts a large body of those attending the university, ranging from undergraduate to doctoral students.
River access and hiking trails offer year-round outdoor fun
Proximity to the New River and Appalachian Trail gives residents and locals abundant opportunities for outdoor recreation. The New River Water Trail offers easy access to the water for tubing, fishing and swimming. Boat ramps along the river allow canoers and kayakers to launch their vessels. Whitt Riverbend Park’s paved walkway hugs the riverside, providing water views and perches for fishing. Boat landings and campsites also dot the 28-acre park. Hikers tackling the Appalachian Trail frequently stop over in Pearisburg, as their trek passes through the town. A popular hiking destination is Angel’s Rest, a short yet treacherous hiking trail. The steep climb results in a 1,600-foot elevation gain and a summit offering picturesque vistas of the New River and valley.
Downtown shops and eateries reflect Pearisburg’s local charm
Pearisburg’s downtown district comprises shops, offices and restaurants clustered around the intersection of Wenonah Avenue and Main Street. Small-town eateries include Sugar and Flour coffee shop and The Happy Hog, which serves American classics and diner favorites in a rustic, wooden atmosphere. “They have the best smash burger I’ve ever had,” Atkinson says. “There are lots of hidden little gems in Pearisburg.” Shops include Pearis Mercantile, a gift shop brimming with Appalachian character. The town also has a handful of fast-food chains for casual options. Walmart and Food Lion provide groceries and other essentials, while additional shopping options are located nearby in Blacksburg and Christiansburg.
Route 460 offers a quick commute to Blacksburg and West Virginia
Route 460 connects Pearisburg directly to Blacksburg, 24 miles east. “Big cities have a longer commute with tons of traffic, but here, you get on 460 and go on cruise control and you’re in Blacksburg in 20 minutes,” Atkinson says. The thoroughfare also links drivers to West Virginia; Pearisburg sits only a few miles from the state border. The closest airport is the Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport, about 65 miles away. Carilion Giles Community Hospital is also centrally located in Pearisburg.
Written By
Christina von Claparede-Crola
