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 the era of segregation. Key historical sites include the Gainsboro Branch Library, which offers a collection of Black literature and hosts events celebrating Black history. Other landmarks include Burrell Memorial Hospital and Hotel Dumas, which hosted legendary musicians such as 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. Gainsboro features historic home architecture, with residences dating back to the late 1800s and early 1900s, including cottages, American Foursquares and duplexes. The area is also on the city's list for home rehabilitation projects, aiming to boost homeownership. Residents are close to Downtown Roanoke, just a mile south, which includes a variety of dining options, including Alejandro's Mexican Grill and Martin’s Downtown, as well as the Roanoke Co+op for local produce.
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 offer green spaces, with the latter connecting residents to Washington Park, which has athletic courts and pools. Gainsboro Road, the main corridor, is set for pedestrian and cyclist-friendly improvements. 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 $137,425. If you put a 20% down payment of $27,500 and had a 30-year fixed mortgage with an interest rate of 6.15%, your estimated principal and interest payment would be $670 a month plus property taxes, HOA fees, home insurance, PMI, and utilities. Using the 28% rule, you would need to make at least $29K a year to afford the median home price in Gainsboro. Learn how much home you can afford with our
Home Affordability Calculator. 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?
Are home prices dropping in Gainsboro?
Yes, home prices in Gainsboro are down 17% in the last 12 months.
Home Trends in Gainsboro, VA
On average, homes in Gainsboro, Roanoke sell after 67 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Gainsboro, Roanoke over the last 12 months is $140,000, down 22% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Median Sale Price
$140,000
Median Single Family Sale Price
$140,750
Average Price Per Sq Ft
$121
Number of Homes for Sale
3
Last 12 months Home Sales
13
Median List Price
$137,425
Median Change From 1st List Price
1%
Median Home Sale Price YoY Change
-22%