Kenwood, Roanoke,VA

Moving to Roanoke, VA, and considering the Kenwood neighborhood is a fantastic choice for those looking for a welcoming and vibrant community. Situated in the southeastern part of Roanoke, Kenwood offers a charming mix of residential comfort and local flavor. One of the standout features of this area is its close-knit neighborhood vibe paired with convenient access to essential amenities. Residents enjoy beautiful tree-lined streets, well-maintained parks, and a variety of housing options ranging from cozy single-family homes to modern apartments, making it ideal for families, young professionals, and retirees alike.

For those who love a bit of local culture and outdoor activities, Kenwood has plenty to offer. The neighborhood is known for its proximity to the scenic Roanoke River Greenway, which is perfect for walking, jogging, or biking while enjoying nature. Kenwood Park is another favorite spot among locals, providing playgrounds, picnic areas, and open spaces for community events. Food lovers will appreciate the nearby eateries serving up everything from classic Southern fare to trendy cafes, giving residents a taste of Roanoke’s diverse culinary scene. Plus, the friendly neighborhood farmers’ markets and local shops add to the charm and convenience of everyday life here.

One of the biggest perks of living in Kenwood is its accessibility to Downtown Roanoke, which is just a short 10 to 15-minute drive away. This means you can easily enjoy the city's bustling arts scene, shopping districts, and entertainment venues without sacrificing the peace and quiet of suburban living. Whether it’s catching a show at the Berglund Center, exploring the Taubman Museum of Art, or dining out on Jefferson Street, downtown’s vibrant atmosphere is always within easy reach. Overall, Kenwood strikes a perfect balance for those who want a friendly, community-focused neighborhood with quick access to all the excitement Roanoke has to offer.

About 35% of the Kenwood population aged 16 and older are married, which is notably lower than average. This could suggest a community with a younger, more transient population—perhaps made up of students, professionals, or renters. It may also reflect a neighborhood that attracts singles or couples without children, contributing to a more independent, urban lifestyle.

With only 24% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Kenwood demographics offer valuable insights into the character and lifestyle of the neighborhood, helping you understand who lives there and what daily life might feel like. Home to only about 1,302 residents, Kenwood is notably smaller than many other Roanoke neighborhoods, creating a more peaceful and community-oriented atmosphere. Its lower population can translate to quieter streets, a more relaxed pace of life, and easier access to local amenities — all without sacrificing the vibrant urban lifestyle the city is known for.

Kenwood has a population density of 2,560, which strikes a balanced feel when compared to other Roanoke neighborhoods. The area offers just the right mix of activity and breathing room, creating a community that’s lively yet comfortable, with easy access to amenities and everyday conveniences.

With an average age of 33, you're likely to find a well-balanced community where multiple generations live side by side. This mix of age groups contributes to a neighborhood atmosphere that’s both active and welcoming, offering a blend of fresh perspectives and long-standing community values.

The Kenwood crime map uses detailed block group boundaries from address-based crime data to visualize crime patterns across the neighborhood, highlighting both low-crime zones and areas with higher levels of reported crime. This crime heat map helps paint a clearer picture of local safety trends, showing how crime can vary from one part of the community to another. Keep in mind that areas with higher activity on the map don’t always equate to dangerous conditions — locations near entertainment districts, major roads, or tourist destinations often see more reports simply due to the larger number of people passing through.

Housing trends offer valuable insight into the accessibility and character of a neighborhood. In Kenwood, the median home price is $111,263, which is less than many surrounding areas. This affordability makes it an attractive option for first-time buyers, young families, or anyone looking to enter the housing market without a significant financial barrier. Looking at appreciation rates and past market trends in Kenwood can offer valuable insight into the neighborhood’s investment potential. Understanding how home values have changed over time helps buyers gauge future growth, assess long-term stability, and make more informed real estate decisions.

The median rent is around $880, which is on par with many comparable neighborhoods. This balanced pricing offers a mix of affordability and value, making it a practical choice for a wide range of renters.

School ratings in Kenwood combine factors like student performance, graduation rates, and standardized test scores to provide a clear picture of overall educational quality. The use of NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores adds valuable context by offering a consistent national benchmark to see how local schools compare on a broader scale. Additionally, understanding the overall education level achieved by residents in Kenwood can give insight into the community’s priorities and opportunities, helping families make more informed decisions about where to live and how well local schools may support long-term student success.