Why Live in Gainsboro
Gainsboro, the oldest neighborhood in Roanoke, is rich in history and cultural significance, particularly as a hub for Black connection and advocacy during segregation. Key historical sites include the Gainsboro Branch Library, Burrell Memorial Hospital, and Hotel Dumas, which hosted legendary musicians like Louis Armstrong and Ella Fitzgerald. Today, the neighborhood remains a focal point for community events and resources, with the Gainsboro Neighborhood Organization actively working to preserve its heritage. Residents enjoy proximity to downtown Roanoke, just a mile south, where they can explore a variety of dining options, including Alejandro's Mexican Grill and Martin’s Downtown, as well as the Roanoke Co+op for local produce. Gainsboro features historic architecture, with homes dating back to the late 1800s and early 1900s, including cottages, American Foursquares, and duplexes. The area is on the city's list for home rehabilitation projects, aiming to boost homeownership.
The Gainsboro Library, a community pillar, offers a collection of Black literature and hosts events celebrating Black history. The neighborhood's annual block party, sponsored by Coca-Cola, is a highlight, featuring fashion shows, raffles, and food vendors. Entranceway Park and the Lick Run Greenway provide green spaces, with the latter connecting residents to Washington Park, known for its athletic courts and upcoming pool renovation. Gainsboro Road, the main corridor, is set for pedestrian and cyclist-friendly improvements by 2025. The neighborhood is well-connected, with Valley Metro bus stops and access to Interstate 581. For longer trips, the Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport is 4 miles northwest, and the Roanoke Amtrak station is about half a mile south.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Gainsboro a good place to live?
Gainsboro is a good place to live. Gainsboro is considered somewhat walkable and bikeable with good transit options. Gainsboro has 2 parks for recreational activities. It is fairly sparse in population with 4.3 people per acre and a median age of 40. The average household income is $50,458 which is below the national average. College graduates make up 16.2% of residents. A majority of residents in Gainsboro are renters, with 72.3% of residents renting and 27.7% of residents owning their home. A
local real estate agent serving Gainsboro can help you decide if this neighborhood is the right one for you. Learn more on our
Gainsboro neighborhood guide.
Is Gainsboro, VA a safe neighborhood?
Gainsboro, VA is less safe than the average neighborhood in the United States. It received a crime score of 7 out of 10.
How much do you need to make to afford a house in Gainsboro?
The median home price in Gainsboro is $474,900. If you put a 20% down payment of $95,000 and had a 30-year fixed mortgage with an interest rate of 6.74%, your estimated principal and interest payment would be $2,460 a month plus property taxes, HOA fees, home insurance, PMI, and utilities. Using the 28% rule, you would need to make at least $105K a year to afford the median home price in Gainsboro. The average household income in Gainsboro is $50K.
What are the best public schools in Gainsboro?
The best public schools that serve Gainsboro are:
What are the best private schools in Gainsboro?
The best private schools that serve Gainsboro are:
What are the most popular zip codes in Gainsboro, Roanoke, VA?
What are the most popular neighborhoods near Gainsboro, Roanoke, VA?
Home Trends in Gainsboro, VA
On average, homes in Gainsboro, Roanoke sell after 59 days on the market compared to the national average of 70 days. The median sale price for homes in Gainsboro, Roanoke over the last 12 months is $510,245, up 1094% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Median Sale Price
$510,245
Median Single Family Sale Price
$474,900
Median Townhouse Sale Price
$199,999
Median 2 Bedroom Sale Price
$1,225,000
Median 1 Bedroom Sale Price
$380,000
Average Price Per Sq Ft
$225
Number of Homes for Sale
3
Last 12 months Home Sales
10
Median List Price
$474,900
Median Change From 1st List Price
7%
Median Home Sale Price YoY Change
1,094%