$255,987Average Value$172Average Price per Sq Ft98Homes For Sale
A former industrial town on the cusp of change
Petersburg, Virginia, is aiming to ride swift currents to a revitalized identity. Rumors of its progress have been circulating for years, in part due to the fact that the city has a charming downtown near the Appomattox River, just 20 miles south of Richmond, the state capital. It’s the kind of picturesque stretch that’s attractive to people with a growing interest in local food, beverage, art and community. “We’re the most historic small city in the country, and nobody knows anything about it,” says Kyle Tucker, president of the Historic Petersburg Foundation and owner of the Petersburg Company. “The revenue that could be brought in here, and the jobs, it’s a lot.” But another huge boost arrived in August 2022, with Gov. Glen Youngkin’s multiagency Partnership for Petersburg. The governor outlined over 40 initiatives to tackle, ranging from retail to education.
Add in a debate around installing a casino, whose public referendum is November 2024, and it seems like Petersburg may in fact turn the corner from its former industrial glory days into a new vision of the future. When tobacco company Brown & Williamson closed shop in the early 80s, it left the city in a state of decline. In 2016, the governor had to send in a finance secretary because the city almost went bankrupt. But many view the casino as an opportunity to reel in much-needed tax revenue and job creation. Fort Gregg-Adams and Bon Secours Medical Hospital are currently among the largest employers in the area. The median age of a Petersburgian is 37, but 17% of people living there are 65 years or older. “Singles, retirees, young newlyweds, empty nesters,” says Beverly Coleman, a longtime member of the Petersburg Rotary Club, speaking of those who are moving to Petersburg. “We finally got a city manager who’s pretty stable now. We’ve had some comeback energy.” In 2024, The Hotel Petersburg reopened after a $14 million makeover, symbolizing downtown's urge to reinvent itself.
Explore the historic Old Towne Petersburg district in Petersburg, VA
Old Towne Petersburg's bustling Sycamore St is home to many businesses and restaurants.
Appomattox Park invites Petersburg residents to fish its historic waters.
Bon Secours Hospital is Petersburg's favorite medical facility and largest employer.
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1850s brick rowhouses and investment properties
Single-owner properties are still the majority of what sells in Petersburg, but well over 30% of housing is part of a multi-unit building. It’s possible to find a triplex investment property in the Centre Hill Historic District for less than $100,000. Fixer-upper properties are prevalent in Petersburg. Small homes with yards in need of renovation range from $90,000 to $130,000. But history is what defines a lot of the homes here, and sometimes that feature can contribute to a higher price tag. A four-story brick rowhouse from 1850, situated in Old Towne, can sell for $300,000.
“In the downtown area, those houses are historic, dating to back before the Civil War, even,” says Joyce Navary, a Realtor with Weichert Realtors. “ In the near downtown areas, not quite yet the suburbs, those houses are historic as well. They’re larger brick homes with columns and original hardwood floors. It’s amazing to see that people have kept them up. But south of downtown, in the Walnut Hill neighborhood, that’s where you can find a starter home from the 50s or 60s, like a brick rancher with three bedrooms and two baths.”
Triplex homes in Petersburg can be found for reasonable prices.
Find the perfect fixer upper for your starter homes in Petersburg.
Beautifully kept historic 4 story homes are popular in Petersburg.
Find wonderful colonial influenced historic homes in Petersburg.
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Schools receive $3 million through Partnership for Petersburg
Petersburg City Public Schools receives a D-plus rating from Niche. It’s been one of the city’s biggest focuses for improvement, besides crime. Correcting absenteeism and improving literacy rates have been part of Youngkin’s plan in the Partnership for Petersburg. The school system has been awarded $3 million to help with any loss of academic progress during breaks. Another strategy has been to enlist Virginia State University students as tutors. VSU, a historically black university, enrolls over 4,000 undergraduates but it also has graduate programs. A new public library was built in 2014, on the site of a former car dealership. Ample parking is available, and the library is often used as an event space.
Vernon Johns Middle School is a C rated Petersburg school according to Niche.
Petersburg High School supports approximately 1,100 Petersburg students.
Appomattox Regional Governor’s School for the Arts and Technology, in Petersburg.
Virginia State University's beautiful campus is a short drive from Old Towne Petersburg.
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Crater Road connects to commuter routes and retail
Locals say that Crater Road is the main drag: It goes through downtown and is lined with retail, eventually reaching out into the suburbs. While downtown, it passes by a convergence of Interstates 85 and 95. It’s also fed by U.S. Route 460 – a key egress when leaving west of the city, toward destinations like Lynchburg, about 2 hours away. Richmond International Airport is 25 miles north. The bus depot at Petersburg Station strikes an almost Art Deco look with its modern clock tower. Completed in 2011, this transit hub is considered a part of the downtown revitalization process, with covered walkways and plenty of glass, brick and steel used as building materials. Petersburg Area Transit operates 11 local routes and has a Richmond Express line with four daily departures.
Kayaking on Wilcox Lake at Legends Park
Legends Park is the biggest public green space in Petersburg, stamped by the standout features of Wilcox Lake, open to canoes and kayaks. The park is over 300 acres, but only 18 of those have been developed, giving it an immersive quality suitable for relaxing hikes. Many also go there to play tennis or baseball. Just over a mile south is the Dogwood Trace Golf Course, which is owned and operated by the city. For more fitness opportunities, residents can go to Petersburg Family YMCA, which received a multimillion-dollar renovation in 2019.
There are also quirky public green spaces. Navary recounts helping a group buy up parcels of land, so they could plant fruit trees. The Little Creek Kung Fu Daoist Temple of Virginia provides families with free produce, including some exotic varieties, like passionfruit. “So it also educates people about what’s good and what’s healthy,” Navary says.
Enjoy fishing and beautiful nature trails around Wilcox Lake.
A family enjoys Legend Park's colorful playground,
Petersburg residents take advantege of the beautiful course found at Dogwood Trace Golf Course.
Petersburg resident enjoy having a local YMCA to get their fitness in check.
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Downtown dining scene focuses on comfort food
Crater Road leads to retail destinations like Food Lion and Walmart, but when it’s time to sample locally owned eateries, many head to Old Towne. Places like Alibi bring a dose of Americana with burgers and beers presented inside an old school pub atmosphere. Comforting eats appear nearby at Croaker’s Spot, a seafood and soul food restaurant. Saucy’s Sit-Down BBQ feels positively hip with its neo-industrial décor. Every burgeoning food scene needs a microbrewery, and Trapezium fills that niche near the river with plenty of open-air seating. Demolition Coffee features brick inside and out, and at this cozy spot patrons can munch on bagel sandwiches and pastries.
Food Lion is a Petersburg staple for refilling the family pantry.
Enjoy a fresh lunch and great environments in Petersburg's Alibi.
Petersburg residents order their favorite lunch at Croaker's Spot.
Trapezium Brewing is a favorite watering hole with fresh brick oven made pizza.
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Friday for the Arts is a monthly community event
There’s an artistic angle to Petersburg that has helped its image as an up-and-coming city. In particular, the second Friday of every month brings an art walk event to Old Towne. “It’s called Friday for the Arts,” says Navary. “It brings people out to look at the exhibits of the month, and to enjoy the little breweries and cafes.” One of the participating organizations, the Petersburg Area Art League, offers workshops and art classes.
River Street Market in Petersburg happens every Saturday for local produce and crafts.
Petersburg residents shopping local honey products found at the RBC Pecan Festival.
Live musicians perform at the weekly River Street Market held in Petersburg.
A variety of vendors make shop at the weekly River Street Market in Petersburg.
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Police staffing has increased by 20%
A key focus of the Partnership for Petersburg is reducing crime. From 2022 to 2023, there was a 20% increase in police staffing and a 33% percent reduction in the local crime rate. For example, in 2022, there were 857 property crimes reported, making the property crime rate 2,566 per 100,000 residents. By contrast, the national property crime rate in 2022 was 1,955 per 100,000 residents.
Written By
Paul Spencer
Photography Contributed By
Kristinah Archer
Video By
Brad Davis
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
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GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
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On average, homes in Petersburg, VA sell after 42 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Petersburg, VA over the last 12 months is $250,000, up 6% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
An absolute brand-new charming home just in time for the NEW YEAR. Find comfort, convenience, and modern style living minutes from the heart of historical downtown Petersburg. You will be in awed by the thoughtful open concept design lay out, accommodating 3-bedrooms, 2 full baths, large living room and a fantastic kitchen with state-of-the-art stainless steel appliances and pantry, filled with
Step into modern comfort and space—this beautifully updated 6-bedroom, 3 full baths home checks every box. Featuring a first-floor primary bedroom, this home offers both convenience and flexibility for today’s lifestyles. The open-concept design flows effortlessly into a spacious living room, making it ideal for entertaining or relaxing with family. You’ll love the large laundry/utility room,
Modern Sophistication Meets Effortless One-Level Living. This residence, constructed in 2022 and offered by the original owner, provides a seamless layout designed for comfort and accessibility. The one-level floor plan eliminates the need for stairs and creates an open environment suitable for a variety of needs. High-quality finishes are evident in the kitchen, which features durable granite
Discover a unique opportunity with this versatile property, zoned B-2, making it suitable for both commercial and residential use in the heart of Petersburg. Built in 1935, this two-story building seamlessly blends historic charm with modern enhancements—ideal for an office, barbershop, boutique retail space, or even a stylish urban residence. Inside, you’ll find original hardwood floors that add
Welcome to 1814 Bedford Street, a delightful residential property offering 1,333 square feet of comfortable living space. This home provides both convenience and charm. As you approach the property, you will notice its charming brick exterior complemented by a modest front porch that invites you to step inside. The well-maintained front yard provides a pleasant first impression. Upon entering the
223 S West, Petersburg, VA Fully remodeled corner-lot home with a fresh, modern look! This beautiful property features 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, an open-concept layout, and a first-floor primary bedroom for easy living.Enjoy brand-new updates throughout, all appliances included, and a new driveway coming soon. Bright, clean, and move-in ready!Located near shops, parks, restaurants, and
Nestled on a half-acre corner lot in the sought-after Walnut Hill neighborhood, this beautifully renovated two-story home offers timeless appeal with contemporary updates. Built in 1917, the residence features 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, blending historic character with modern convenience for a truly unique living experience. Step inside to discover original refinished hardwood floors and classic
Beautifully renovated two-story home built in 1949, offering 4 bedrooms and 1 bathroom. This residence combines historic character with modern updates throughout. First floor Features Living room and bedroom with luxury vinyl plank flooring and ceiling fans; Renovated kitchen with new flooring, granite countertops, updated lighting, and new stainless-steel appliances; Two upstairs bedrooms with
Fantastic opportunity to own a residential lot in the City of Petersburg! This cleared parcel offers excellent potential for new construction or investment, with utilities available nearby and flexible R-2 zoning. Whether you’re looking to build a home, expand your portfolio, or hold land for future use, this property provides a great starting point. The lot sits in an established residential
Endless potential awaits with this versatile property, offering 1,617 square feet of adaptable space that can be used for either residential or commercial purposes. Built in 1935, this two-story gem blends timeless character with key modern updates, including a newer heating system, central air conditioning, and a recently renovated full bathroom with a new tub. The home features a a durable
Charming Rancher – Great Investment or Starter Home!This cozy ranch-style home offers an incredible opportunity for first-time buyers or investors alike. With a tenant already in place, it’s a ready-made income property — or the perfect chance to build equity at an affordable price. Sold as is, this home is full of potential and priced to sell quickly! Positive Cash Flow, Turnkey Rental – Day
Beautifully Renovated Two-Story Home! Step inside this stunning remodel featuring an open floor plan with stylish LVP flooring and recessed lighting throughout; 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths. The bright, modern kitchen boasts stainless steel appliances, sleek cabinetry, and connects seamlessly to the dining area — perfect for entertaining. Enjoy the flexibility on the second floor with kitchen and living
As you turn onto the access trail that crosses 900 Old Wagner Rd you will drive parallel to the High Voltage Power lines that traverse the parcel. The lower lying land is to your right. At the top of the rise you can park up, by the old gate and walk back into the shade of the mature mixed timber. The topography undulates as you cross the small creek that feeds Hanzlik’s pond (on an adjacent
Back on the market at no fault of owner— Opportunity in a Rapidly Growing Petersburg Neighborhood! Welcome to your chance to own a beautifully maintained home in one of Petersburg’s most up-and-coming areas! With new developments, revitalization projects, and rising property values all around, this home offers comfortable living. Step inside and experience an inviting open floor plan ideal for
Spacious 4-Bedroom Cape Cod | 2-Story Living | Porch & Rear Deck This to be built Cape Cod–style home blends timeless design with modern functionality. Offering 4 bedrooms and 2 full baths, the layout is designed for comfort and convenience, with over 1,600 sq. ft. of living space across two levels. Features You’ll Love: Open Main Floor – Bright living room flows seamlessly into dining area and
This cozy home is waiting for you. Located in the historic John Bragg Memorial Park area, this beautiful neighborhood is rich in history. Just a short walk to Rotary Park on Pocahontas Island. There is so much to see. This home offers a full front porch waiting to catch the morning sun or evening breeze. Nice open space with a large eat-in kitchen, 3 bedrooms, 1 bath. Huge backyard.
Discover the all-new Aubrey Apartments! Experience renovated 1, 2, and 3 bedroom homes on our scenic 16-acre property in Petersburg, VA. Enjoy premier amenities like a bark park, playground, picnic area, fitness center, and remodeled clubhouse available for rent. Conveniently located near Fort Lee, Colonial Heights, and Virginia State University, we offer easy access to Old Towne, Fort Lee, and
This spacious two bedrooms unit has so much to offer. It has a fully equipped eat-in kitchen with stove, refrigerator, washer and dryer. Bedrooms have been freshly painted with ceilings fan. Unit has lots of storage space. Floors are mostly hardwood except some area of laminate. There is a wonderful porch outside kitchen area for grilling and relaxation. House is located near grocery stores, bus
In the heart of Petersburg, VA, High Street Lofts is the urban dweller’s dream apartment community. Located in Petersburg's most historic residential neighborhood, our cozy two-bedroom apartments boast nearby access to dining, shopping, entertainment, nightlife, and so much more. Not to mention, head to the nearby Union Train Station to explore the bright and bustling Old Towne Petersburg
This newly renovated 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath ranch-style home is available for rent at $1,450 per month. The home features a brand-new roof, updated plumbing, and beautifully refinished wood floors throughout, blending modern upgrades with classic charm.Conveniently located near downtown Petersburg, the property offers easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment, including proximity to the
Petersburg, Virginia's Premier Luxury Apartment Community!The Ancient Romans viewed water, "acqua", not only as a necessity of life but also as a thing of beauty. 1200 Acqua Luxury Apartments is a community centered around Roman lifestyle values. Minutes from the city, but just far enough to rest and recoup from the busy world. Our tranquil apartment homes are architecturally appealing open
Discover the perfect blend of modern living and classic charm in this beautifully remodeled duplex. As you step inside, you are greeted by stunning refinished hardwood floors that flow seamlessly throughout the home, adding warmth and elegance. Upstairs are two spacious bedrooms offering a cozy retreat for rest and relaxation. A well-appointed one and a half bath ensures convenience for both
Spacious 2b/2ba with outdoor patio, polished concrete floors, brick walls, large windows - Great historic downtown location, restaurants and retail at your doorstep.Designer Apartment Lofts in the heart of Historic Downtown! Great floor plans, many with walk-in closets, full-size front loading washer and dryer, energy star designer appliances. Some with private outdoor patios, brick walls and
Discover the perfect blend of modern living and classic charm in the beautifully remodeled duplex. As you step inside, you are greeted by stunning refinished hardwood floors that flow seamlessly throughout the home, adding warmth and elegance. Upstairs are two spacious bedrooms offering a cozy retreat for rest and relaxation. A well-appointed one and a half bath ensures convenience for both
Experience the unique charm of Star Lofts located in the Petersburg Central Business District. Residents love the building's historic vibes paired with modern amenities, including a swimming pool, two gyms, and a lounge that provide a luxurious lifestyle. The prime location offers easy access to Old Town and local stores, making errands a breeze. Reviews highlight the friendly management team
Stunning renovated duplex. New flooring that flows seamlessly throughout the home, adding warmth and elegance. Upstairs are two spacious bedrooms offering a cozy retreat for rest and relaxation. The kitchen features brand new appliances and the open floor plan is perfect atmosphere for entertaining or enjoying a quiet night in. This also includes washer and dryer! With two levels of thoughtfully
Choose from our variety of floor plans in Petersburg, Virginia, and have it all – a spacious layout, light-filled rooms, and convenient features and amenities. Our Petersburg location is ideally situated near restaurants, shopping, major employers, and great schools. Perry Street Lofts will far exceed your expectations. Tour your new home today by contacting our leasing office.Perry Street Lofts
Characterized by the remnants of cobblestone streets, notable historic landmarks and an array of eclectic storefronts, Old Towne Petersburg immerses residents in a picture of the past despite its modern-day urban surroundings. The northern border of this neighborhood is the Appomattox River, a tributary of the larger James River that flows through nearby Richmond. While Old Towne remains faithful to preserving its national historic identity, recent construction projects have helped to breathe new life into the neighborhood: “Old Towne Petersburg is being rejuvenated with an abundance of shops and restaurants,” says Cheryl Hagelstein of Front Door Realty LLC. This area is also home to a prominent arts scene and several creatively driven organizations, including the Petersburg Area Art League, the Walton Gallery and the Ward Center for Contemporary Art.
A trip down Old Street illustrates the neighborhood’s unique blend of centuries-old properties and newer commercial spaces; among the historic structures is Appomattox Iron Works, an industrial iron-production complex consisting of nine buildings that were built prior to the Civil War. Right next door is the Buttery Baking House, a modern bakery with a menu full of breakfast favorites. Farther along Old Street, residents can sit down for afternoon tea at the Blue Willow Tea Room and browse collectibles in Pennistons Alley Antiques, both of which are housed in twin Federal townhouses built in 1815. Over on East Bank Street, Demolition Coffee is a popular industrial-themed café where locals flock to secure their morning caffeine. For a night on the town, Trapezium Brewing Company and Old Towne’s Alibi, a pub-style eatery, both offer a vintage atmosphere and craft drinks.
19th-century Federal and Italianate-style row houses alongside standalone brick homes reflect a large portion of the historic residential properties in Old Towne. Other commonly seen housing styles include single-family homes and townhouses that display Second Empire, traditional-style and Colonial-inspired architecture. Many of the residential properties in this area feature various brickwork constructions, vividly colorful facades and eclectic exterior finishings. Smaller remodels can be found on Pocahontas Island, the oldest and easternmost part of the neighborhood that’s home to a historically Black community and the Pocahontas Black History Museum. For the most part, homes in Old Towne tend to range in price between approximately $125,000 and $425,000.
The Appomattox River provides the backdrop for much of the community’s events and offers residents convenient access to related recreational opportunities, including bass fishing, canoeing and hiking along the Appomattox River Greenway trail. One of the greenway’s several trailheads is located at Appomattox Park, a small open green space with a parking lot; an additional trailhead can be found at Patton Park, an urban green space situated just outside the neighborhood. The nearby Petersburg Family YMCA offers both indoor and outdoor recreation activities in addition to hosting fitness classes, youth programs and community-focused activities.
Students in this area are zoned for Petersburg City Public Schools; young learners can jumpstart their academic journeys at Walnut Hill Elementary School, which receives a C-minus rating from Niche. Students might then head to Vernon Johns Middle School, which feeds into the C-minus-rated Petersburg High School. Although run by the Chesterfield County School district, the Appomattox Regional Governor’s School for the Arts and Technology is also located in Petersburg and stands as a premier magnet school that draws students from 14 localities.
One of the highlights of Old Towne’s dynamic community is the River Street Market, a weekly gathering of vendors billed as a blend of arts, produce and culture. There are also a number of historic buildings in this neighborhood that have established themselves as event spaces; the Appomattox Iron Works building uses its renovated outdoor area to host festivals such as Arborfest. The Petersburg Union Station, which finished construction in 1910, became defunct in the latter half of the 20th century and has since been transformed into a popular venue for large events and celebrations.
Commuters have convenient access to Interstate 95, which runs north-south near the neighborhood’s eastern side and travels approximately 25 miles into the Richmond area. Petersburg Area Transit (PAT) operates multiple bus lines throughout the city, many of which have stops in Old Towne. PAT also operated specialized transportation and express routes to Richmond for individuals with disabilities and senior citizens.
Property Mix - Square Feet
Petersburg Has More Renters
Demographics
Total Population
33,203
Median Age
40
Population under 18
22.2%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
19.6%
On par with the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$44,703
Significantly below the national average
$79,601
Average Household Income
$55,582
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
84.4%
College Graduates
21.7%
Below the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
7.8%
Below the national average
13.3%
% Population in Labor Force
61%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
44''
Average Winter Low Temperature
28°F
Average Summer High Temperature
90°F
Annual Snowfall
0''
Area Factors
Somewhat Bikeable
Bike Score®®
32/ 100
Car-Dependent
Walk Score®®
27/ 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score
Walk Score® measures the walkability of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
