Strategic Location

In Wise County, the views are as inspiring as the opportunities. From the 4,200-foot High Knob summit — where you can see five states on a clear day — to the storybook beauty of Powell Valley, life here is framed by breathtaking landscapes and limitless possibilities.

Beyond the scenery, Wise County’s location delivers commanding business advantages.

Perfectly situated between Atlanta and Pittsburgh, Charlotte and Cincinnati, and Richmond and Louisville, Wise County places you within a day's drive of 70% of the U.S. population.

U.S. Highways 23 and 58 meet here, offering easy connections to I-40, I-81, I-75, and I-77.

Businesses benefit from multiple transit options — including Class I rail service, the Lonesome Pine Airport (LNP) for general aviation, nearby regional airports, and access to East Coast seaports. 

Wise County makes it easy to do business. Located in Virginia, the state ranked #1 for business by CNBC in 2024, we offer low costs, competitive taxes, and a fast, predictable permitting process that helps companies hit the ground running. Customized incentive packages for eligible projects from the state, region, and county add even more value—ensuring your investment goes further from day one.

Wise County offers direct access to a skilled and adaptable workforce, supported by two strong higher education institutions.

The University of Virginia’s College at Wise—the only branch of the prestigious University of Virginia—is located right here in Wise County. With 34 majors and a commitment to aligning programs with employer needs, UVA Wise is a valuable partner to local industry, offering a steady pipeline of career-ready graduates.

Mountain Empire Community College (MECC) strengthens the region’s workforce with hands-on training in high-demand fields like industrial maintenance, machining, and welding. Through its Workforce Solutions and Center for Workforce and Innovation of Appalachia, MECC delivers targeted, tech-driven training tailored to business needs.

Just an hour away, the Tri-Cities, TN metro area expands the talent pool even further with a population of over 500,000 and multiple colleges and universities.

Wise County delivers a high quality of life with four-season beauty, unlimited outdoor recreation opportunities, and a strong sense of community. From scenic hiking and biking trails to fishing, kayaking, and horseback riding, outdoor adventure is always close by. The area also boasts popular motorcycle routes, ATV trails, and multiple state parks and recreation areas. Fall is especially vibrant, with colorful foliage, numerous festivals, and events that celebrate local culture and tradition.