Panoramic view of Carter Mountain in Charlottesville VA

Courtesy of Charlotteville Albemarle CVB

Best Places to Live in the US in 2022 Sponsored by: eXp RealtyeXp Realty

UPDATE: Check out our new 2023 Best Cities to Live in the U.S. list.

Charlottesville, VA is the #22 Best City to Live in the USA

Pedestrians in Historic Downtown Mall in Charlottesville VA
Sanjay Suchak
Charlottesville, VA
Quality of Life
Liv Score

638
How We Calculate Our Data
Civics 71
Demographics 45
Economy 69
Education 55
Health 65
Housing 64
Infrastructure 53
Amenities 51

Why Charlottesville is one of the best cities to live in

Situated in the central portion of the state, Charlottesville, VA, is a growing city with quite an enviable lifestyle. The area’s more than 47,000 residents can’t get enough of its wineries and breweries, rave-worthy dining options and diverse arts scene. Here, you’ll find everything from outdoor murals and sculptures to galleries, performing art shows (a performance by the Charlottesville Opera will give you chills), live music and much more. In addition, community engagement opportunities are high in Charlottesville, making it one of the best places to live in the U.S. For example, the Charlottesville Area Community Foundation utilizes the arts to help drive social connections and positive change. Oh, and amazing career options abound here, as the area is home to strong education, medical services, manufacturing and life sciences sectors. And as for outdoor recreation, you’ll want to spend as much time as possible outside. The area offers nearly 6 miles of paved and approximately 30 miles of nature trails. 

What are Charlottesville’s major industries and employers?

Major industries include education, medical services, manufacturing and life sciences. A few major employers include The University of Virginia, Northrop Grumman Corporation and S&P Global.

What are the major colleges and universities in Charlottesville?

The University of Virginia & Piedmont Virginia Community College

What is the weather like in Charlottesville? 

Summers are warm, with highs averaging in the mid-to-upper 80s, while winters run a bit chillier, with highs averaging in the upper 40s. 

What is there to do outside in Charlottesville?

Traipse along the Azalea Park pathways with your pup, then stop by the park’s dog park to meet some new furry friends. 

Charlottesville, VA is Remote-Ready

What makes Charlottesville a great place for remote workers?

For a remote worker, easy access to comfortable third spaces and the option for outdoorsy activities is essential for mental and physical health, and Charlottesville has it all. Additionally, 98% of the city has access to high-speed internet, and there are tons of excellent breweries and coffee shops to work out of. Plus, you can join coworking spaces like Studio IXVault Virginia and Common House, a workspace, social club and dining spot. 

What Locals Love in Charlottesville, VA

What is the best local bookstore in Charlottesville?

Find your next great read at 2nd Act Books, which offers a large selection for people of all ages. 

How do you spend a weekend in Charlottesville?

Grab a few friends and have a beer at Decipher Brewing. Live music and food truck events are always on the schedule. 

What can you do for free in Charlottesville?

Charlottesville City Market is the perfect place to check out locally made and grown products. 

What’s the best way to spend happy hour in Charlottesville?

Common House is a membership-based social club that offers a monthly wine club and an on-demand wine concierge. 

What’s something only locals know about Charlottesville?

The Looking Glass offers an immersive art experience you’ll never forget and is housed in a repurposed building, giving it a cool, industrial vibe. It features an interactive enchanted forest and a kaleidoscope cave.

Is Charlottesville, VA a good place to live?

A strong job market, vibrant arts and entertainment scenes, and abundant opportunities for outdoor recreation make Charlottesville a best place to live in Virginia.

Thinking of Moving to Charlottesville?

What is the Charlottesville, VA Real Estate Market Like?

Steeped in history and a scholastic atmosphere, Charlottesville, VA real estate is well balanced between residential neighborhoods and woodland properties. Many homes for sale in Charlottesville, VA were built in the last twenty years and are near beloved stores like Wegmans and Costco, unique for most of Virginia. Local real estate agents will point you to the Belmont neighborhood if you want to stay close to the downtown mall with its boutique stores and outdoor music venue.

Quick Facts About Charlottesville, VA

Average Commute
14.89
Median Home Value
$365,822
Med. Household Income
$61,891
Total Population
45,685
Walk Score
57
Median Property Tax
$2,775

Continue Reading Best Places To Live in the US in 2022

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