Purcellville

With a history that dates back to the 18th century, Purcellville was once the agricultural hub of Loudoun County. No longer an agricultural hotspot, Purcellville is now a community hub—a tight-knit small town with modern amenities and housing options that welcome everyone.

"People here want to get to know you. You instantly feel that nostalgic small-town, hometown feeling. Everything is super family-friendly with a strong sense of community," says Somphane Jones, a Purcellville local. Jones, who is also a Realtor with Pearson Smith Realty, goes on to say, "Purcellville gives you the chance to choose the lifestyle you want. It's unique because you can get a historic home, a family home in a planned community or a town house. You can find any home or lot size you want."

Purcellville still features a historic downtown, and homes on and around Main Street sit along sidewalks heavy with trees, reflecting the town's history with stately Victorian and Queen Annes alongside columned Colonial revival homes. Today, you can find an exquisitely renovated 1930s Queen Anne with a spacious lot, nearly 3,000 square feet and four bedrooms for around $900,000 within walking distance of the popular Purcellville Pub. For closer to $1 million, a Victorian beauty with eight bedrooms could be yours, along with a front-row seat to the annual and much-celebrated Independence Day Parade. Other homes downtown range from just under $400,000 for a two-bedroom 1950s rancher to $800,000 for a brick-front colonial with 4,000 square feet. In between, you can find restored farmhouses from the late 1800s, mid-century ramblers and contemporary homes built in the 2000s.

As people searching for a slower pace of life—and more house for their money—began migrating east to west in the late 1990s and early 2000, planned communities began emerging. Families still flock to the area, and kids can be seen riding bikes along the sidewalk-lined streets and playing basketball in the cul-de-sac as friends gather for block parties. Single-family homes in these communities cost anywhere from $600,000 to $1.2 million, offering up to five bedrooms and 4,500 square feet.

Town houses open a new price point for homebuyers, with homes offering anywhere from 1,800 square feet to 3,500 square feet, priced from the mid-$400,000s to the upper $600,000s. Many of these communities are highly walkable and allow easy access to all the town's amenities.

As housing options grow, so does retail. Purcellville now hosts several shopping centers offering popular retail and chain establishments. You can grab groceries at Giant or Harris Teeter or satisfy sweet and savory cravings at Chick-fil-A and Starbucks. But the beating heart of the community remains downtown. Downtown pulls people together with a library, community center, and historic businesses. Magnolias at the Mill, just next to the town's historic train station, is the go-to for date night, family celebrations…or "just because." You can get anything from burgers and brick oven pizzas to duck breast served over a citrus risotto in a cozy, intimate setting.

Schools are another big draw as they are part of the Loudoun County Public School District. Students start at elementary schools like Emerick Elementary. Emerick earns an A-rating from Niche and is praised for its exceptional administration. For middle school, many kids head to Blue Ridge Middle, where they can join one of more than 60 student clubs. Loudoun Valley High School provides a Capstone program focused on post-secondary success and boasts an A-minus rating from Niche.

Jones notes that Purcellville tends to attract nature lovers—which makes sense given its proximity to the Appalachian Trail and the fact that the W & OD trail cuts through the center of town. Likewise, parks like Fireman's Field provide ample outdoor space. With two baseball fields, it's the home of youth baseball in the area. It's also home to the historic Bush Tabernacle skating rink. Together, these venues host special events and concerts, as well as the annual Loudoun Grown Expo, Music and Arts Festival and Wine and Food Festival. For your bike riders, the newest park addition, Adam's Bike Park, offers natural hills, trails and ramps for all ages and skill levels.

Located in the heart of Virginia's wine country and near countless historical sites, day trips are always accessible. But with all that Purcellville offers right in its backyard? You might find that you have everything you need right at home.

Written By

Tina Davis

Photography Contributed By

David MacNeill

Video By

Curtis Newkirk