Living in Hillsville? (Blacksburg, Christiansburg, Radford: appointed, houses, job market)

[dogluver]

My husband and myself are relocating from the Chicago area. We've checked out Franklin County and Floyd (which we love) but having a hard time finding the perfect house at the perfect price! We found exactly what we want but in Hillsville. Can anyone tell me about this area and where would one go for work? Has anyone actually lived in Hillsville and found any decent paying jobs in the area?
Thanks much! Appreciate any replies.

[Steven2149]

Hello, I am from Carroll County. I was born and raised in galax, which is about 10 minutes from Hillsville. The good news is that you will find a decent array of houses with land and views. The bad news is that most of the jobs are manufacturing or textile related. Unless you are being recruited as upper level management, you would have to start at the bottom and work your way up. This translates to starting somewhere in the $8 / hour range in most instances. There arent a lot of good paying jobs in that area. The best bet for someone in that area to make decent money without being a business owner or high level management is to be in the healthcare industry. Eldercare is a very strong industry as there are many retirees opting to move to the region. I hope that helps a little.

[vamtncat]

Hi dogluver!

Steven pretty much nailed it as far as Hillsville is concerned. I'm about 10 minutes from Hillsville. It's a beautifull place with wide open spaces and views. Just a short drive to the Blue Ridge Parkway. Only major stores in Hillsville are the Food Lion and the Family Dollar. Most everyone drives to Galax for Wal-Mart, Lowes and don't forget the Tractor Supply.

Hillsville would be great if you have already made your money but if you have to work and want to do it nearby then you might be disappointed. Comparable housing prices might be found in Wytheville which is just right off of 81 and better access to Christiansburg/Blacksburg/Radford. Tell me again what you and your DH do for work?

You also might want to take a look at the forclosure listings. LOTS of them around here.

[dogluver]

Thanks much for your replies....they are appreciated. My husband is going to retire and look for part time work. I am in the secretarial field. Does anyone know if Mt. Airy would be an option to work?

[VALover]

Hillsville is a pretty good location because you are fairly close to I-77. I would think that you would be able to find part time work in Galax or Wytheville. I would probably get in contact with the temp agencies and see if they have anything to offer in that field. I am not familiar with the job market in Mt. Airy.

[dogluver]

Thanks again. We have decided not to pursue the Hillsville area and in fact put a contract on a house in Floyd. Appreciate everyone's help!

[vamtncat]

Congrats on your house in Floyd! How exciting! Plese let us know what we can help you do in your relocation.

[VALover]

Floyd sounds fantastic!

[naturelover17]

Can anyone describe the downtown area of Galax and Hillsville? Are they cute/quaint or (and I hope this isn't the case) somewhat run down looking?

[JJM]

They both are run down looking....sorry. Galax was primarily a furniture and textile town and most of those industries are gone now. Unfortunately, the town is showing it's lack of prosperity. Their big claim to fame now is the annual fiddler's convention which occurs every August for about a week. It's fun to see once or twice but after that IMO it's boring. Hillsville has an annual gun show and flea market that draws people in by the thousands every labor day. The downtown area is small and you'd almost miss it if you blink when driving through. I lived in the area for a while and was very happy to move on to greener pastures.