Based on the historical population data for the ZIP code 22640 in Chester Gap, Virginia, the area has experienced fluctuations in population and population density over the years from 2010 to 2022. The population has ranged from a high of 913 in 2010 to a low of 642 in 2014, with the most recent data showing a population of 745 in 2022. The corresponding population density has also varied, with the highest being 49.73 people per square mile in 2010 and the lowest being 34.97 people per square mile in 2014. The 2022 population density stands at 40.58 people per square mile.

Given the consistently low population density figures, which have remained below 50 people per square mile throughout the examined period, the ZIP code 22640 can be characterized as a remote rural area. Remote rural areas are typically associated with very sparse populations, minimal infrastructure, and limited services. The lifestyle in such areas is predominantly agricultural or undeveloped, with a focus on privacy and self-sustainability. Residents often engage in outdoor and recreational activities due to the natural environment and the large expanses of land available per household, which can often exceed 5 acres.

The estimated housing units corresponding to the 2022 population, based on the national average household size of 2.61, is approximately 285 units. This relatively low number of housing units spread across the 18.36 square miles of the ZIP code further reinforces the remote rural nature of the area.