Accessibility

Charlottesville is in the heart of Central Virginia, only 90 miles from Washington, DC, and 60 miles from Richmond, VA. When the occasion arises, Charlottesville Albemarle Airport and an Amtrak station make jumping on a plane or train easy and efficient.

Since Charlottesville is relatively small in size, commutes are generally short. Bike lanes and walkable areas make biking and walking transits enjoyable as well.

Emerging Technology Hub

The tech sector includes some 11,700 jobs spread across 640 firms in the Charlottesville metro area, making it one of the largest homes of tech companies in Virginia–both in terms of the number of high-technology employees and companies.

Well known tech companies including WillowTree Apps, GovSmart, Search Mojo, and Silverchair call Charlottesville home, as well as many smaller and start up businesses.

See a full report on the High-Technology Sector in Charlottesville.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Charlottesville is far less than in many of the urban areas nearby directly affecting the cost of doing business.

Charlottesville retains a core historic fabric while offering housing that is affordable and attainable for people of all income levels, racial backgrounds, life stages, and abilities. Neighborhoods feature a variety of housing types, including higher density, pedestrian, and transit-oriented housing at employment and cultural centers. Many residential areas are connected with recreation facilities, parks, trails, and services.

Lifestyle

Outdoor enthusiasts will love Charlottesville’s four very distinct seasons—perfect for biking, hiking, running, and even nearby skiing. Residents love visiting the Shenandoah National Park, Blue Ridge Parkway, and the George Washington National Forest for sensational views anytime of the year, but especially during Virginia’s prolific spring and iconic fall colors.

Choose from any number of top rated restaurants and shops, or go for a stroll on the Downtown Mall, at The Shops at Stonefield, or at Fifth Street Station. The Charlottesville area is well known for its wine and craft beverages, and local breweries, wineries, and cideries abound in the beautiful Virginia Piedmont. The thriving music and arts scene ensures that residents can immerse themselves in both local and national culture.

University of Virginia

The University of Virginia, founded by Thomas Jefferson in 1819, is the flagship university of Virginia and home to Jefferson's Academical Village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The University is an iconic public institution of higher education, boasting nationally ranked schools and programs, diverse and distinguished faculty, a major academic medical center and proud history as a renowned research university. The community and culture of the University are enriched by active student self-governance, sustained commitment to the arts and a robust NCAA Division I Athletics program (Go Hoos!).

Accolades

There’s a reason that Charlottesville has been deemed a premier Virginia destination. The city has been recognized many times over for its charm, community lifestyle, and delicious food, including ranking as the fifth healthiest, happiest city in the US, one of the top US small cities for foodies, the second best City Market in the US, and the fifth best places to live in the US.

Curious what other honors Charlottesville has received? See a full list of accolades here.

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