Economist Christine Chmura Has Underscored The Revival Of Economic Activity In Southwest Virginia In Recent Years. In Her Speech At The Southwest Virginia Economic Forum In Wise, She Addressed The Rise In New Job Opportunities, Higher Wages, And An Expanded Variety Of Employment Options. Traditionally, The Area’s Population Has Been Declining, And Long-Term Forecasts Suggest That This Trend Is Likely To Persist For The Next Few Decades. In Region 1 Of Virginia, The Average Salary Is $44,000, While The Cost Of Living Index Is Over 15% Lower Than The National Average.