Let the numbers do the talking.
Charlottesville, VA vs Harrisonburg, VA
Charlottesville, VA vs Harrisonburg, VA: What the data shows
Charlottesville, VA is in Charlottesville, VA while Harrisonburg, VA is in Harrisonburg, VA — both in the same state. On home prices, Harrisonburg, VA is the more affordable option at $311,600 median — $55,400 less than Charlottesville, VA's $367,000. WYLT rates Charlottesville, VA as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots — and Harrisonburg, VA as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Charlottesville, VA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Harrisonburg, VA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Charlottesville, VA has Low flood risk and Harrisonburg, VA has Low flood risk.
Charlottesville, VA is the more walkable neighborhood. Charlottesville, VA scores 75/100 (very walkable) versus Harrisonburg, VA's 55/100 (somewhat walkable). For families weighing school quality, Harrisonburg, VA has the higher school rating — Charlottesville, VA rates 8.1/10 and Harrisonburg, VA rates 8.2/10.
| Category | Charlottesville, VA | Harrisonburg, VA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Settle here | Settle here |
| Median Price | $367K | $312K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K | $1K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $84K ✓ Higher income | $64K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 75/100 ✓ More walkable | 55/100 |
| Transit Score | 41/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | 54/100 ✓ More bikeable | 48/100 |
| Commute | 55 min ✓ Shorter commute | 90 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 8.1/10 | 8.2/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | FamiliesStudentsRemote workers | StudentsFamiliesRemote Workers |
Bottom line
Both Charlottesville and Harrisonburg offer great options for families, students, and remote workers. However, if you prioritize walkability and a more vibrant downtown atmosphere, Charlottesville is the better choice. For a more affordable college town experience with excellent public schools, Harrisonburg is the way to go.
Share this comparison