What to know when moving to Fredericksburg, VA
Fredericksburg at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community where 58.4% of residents rent and 46.8% hold a bachelor's degree.
- The Major Draw:
- Median household income is $85,432, providing a stable economic base.
- The Reality Check:
- 16% of residents live below the poverty line, indicating economic diversity.
- Commute:
- Only 1.9% of residents use public transit.
- Top Tip:
- Budget for a median rent of $1,518 per month.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Fredericksburg features a blend of renters and homeowners, with about 58.4% of the population renting their homes. The median gross rent is $1,518, which reflects the area's affordability relative to surrounding regions. Education is a priority here, with nearly half of the population holding a bachelor's degree. The population of 28,201 brings a mix of perspectives and lifestyles.
Probably not your spot if you prefer a high transit share, as only 1.9% of residents commute via public transportation.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median rent sits at $1,518, while the median home value is $461,600, indicating a balanced housing market.
- With 46.8% of residents holding a bachelor's degree and a poverty rate of 16%, the community showcases a diverse educational landscape.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
Virginia reports lower crime rates compared to national averages, reflecting a generally safe environment.
- Violent crime rate is 203.3 per 100,000, significantly lower than the national rate of 325.3.
- Property crime rate is 1346.3 per 100,000, also below the national average of 1546.9.
- Notably, the homicide rate has decreased by 43.2% since 2022.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for Virginia).
Schools & Higher Ed
Access to education in Fredericksburg includes a mix of institutions within the nearby region.
- Total postsecondary institutions: 3
- With College Scorecard data: 2
- Notable schools include the University of Mary Washington and Eastern Virginia Career College.
Source: NCES Postsecondary School Locations, U.S. Dept. of Education College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
Fredericksburg enjoys a moderate climate with an annual average precipitation of about 28.9 inches, spread over 76 rainy days. Summers can be quite warm, with average highs reaching 89°F.
- Parks & outdoor spots worth checking out:
- Central Park - 4.3 stars (8,480 reviews)
- Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park - 4.7 stars (1,519 reviews)
- Alum Spring Park - 4.7 stars (1,232 reviews)
Sources: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.