A vibrant downtown gives a cosmopolitan edge to this Shenandoah Valley town
With sloped streets and a creative culinary scene, Staunton stands out as a modestly sized city of 27,000 residents, located between larger college hotspots like Charlottesville and Harrisonburg. Industry and trade were important in the early days, facilitated by railroad transportation. Amtrak still maintains a station downtown. When drivers pass under the train trestle at the intersection of U.S. Routes 250 and 11, they’ll see a large watering can – one of the many public art installations left by sculptor Willy Ferguson. The overall atmosphere is quaint, quirky and inviting. “Staunton is a mix. Just outside of town, it feels rural. But it has a small-town vibe, and even a metropolitan edge that you don’t typically get in a small town,” says Mary Beth Harris, a resident of 25 years and a broker with James River Realty. Harris points first to the Blackfriars Playhouse, a renowned Shakespearean theater that punches above its weight for a city of Staunton’s size. She also notes a large catalog of small businesses that support the local economy. “There are lots of small boutiques run by creative entrepreneurs, from Design at Nine, which has amazing shoes for women, to Beverley Cigar Store, where everybody sits around and smokes in suit jackets,” she says.
Bestowed with parks and a highly touted school system, Staunton is anchored by this vibrant downtown, which feels like a slice of Main Street Americana.
Staunton has a bustling, vibrant downtown, dominated by the Augusta County Circuit Court building.
East Beverly St is the main hub of businesses in Staunton, and is lined with turn of the century buildings with an array of beautiful architectural styles.
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Historic houses near downtown; new developments on the outskirts
Housing tends to include traditional, understated genres like split-levels, ranch-style homes and colonials. But there’s variation: Some of those ranch-style homes may be two-bedroom midcenturies, while others are from the 2020s with three bedrooms and over 2,200 square feet. Sidewalks are abundant, but not all properties have driveways. Some of the more rural edges of Staunton have been developed into new subdivisions, but one of the main appeals of the city is that many residences are close to downtown. Sears Hill and Gospel Hill are popular historic neighborhoods. “You have the option of finding a property within a mile of downtown where you can walk to things and still have a more affordable lifestyle compared to bigger cities,” says Harris. “You’ll also see a lot of gorgeous Victorians in the downtown area.” Prices range from $250,000 to $550,000. The local median price is $305,000 while the national median is $405,000.
Brick ranch homes are common throughout Staunton. Much of Staunton is hilly, and many of the residential streets are steeply sloped.
Colonials and Cape Cods are also common in Staunton. New build homes are less common in this historic city.
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A historic private school, plus an all-girls university
Staunton City Public Schools earn an overall B-plus from Niche. Private education options include Stuart Hall School, which features a historic campus dating back to the Civil War. Staunton is also the site of Mary Baldwin University, which was founded in 1842 as an all-women's school, but has since expanded to include men. “Historically, Staunton was considered an academic town that complemented the more blue-collar paper and textile production in Waynesboro next door. They’d often be mentioned in the same breath,” says Matthias John, a Realtor with Wiley Real Estate.
Stuart Hall School is a private high school with a prestigious reputation.
Staunton High School is the public school alternative to Stuart Hall, and receives a B from Niche.
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Plenty of parks suitable for a stroll
Most of the city’s park spaces are located on the south and west sides, leaving the northern part of Staunton primarily residential. One of the smallest yet still happening spaces is Gypsy Hill Park, located off Churchville Avenue. “Gypsy Hill Park is great for walking, there’s a duck pond and a little train that goes around it,” says Harris. “Every Christmas it features a renowned light display that people drive around.” But then there are more sprawling spaces to explore. “Montgomery Hall Park has plenty of hiking trails, just acres and acres of land to hike,” Harris says. “It also has a community pool, a playground for kids and a frisbee golf course.”
Montgomery Hall Park offers hiking trails, a playground and a frisbee golf course.
Gypsy Hill Park has a small duck pond where locals can come to feed the water fowl.
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Local ingredients and seasonal flavors define the dining scene
The dining scene strongly focuses on providing a cozy ambiance and seasonal flavors, often updating perennial favorites like pizza or pasta. For example, The Shack serves up New American classics in a tiny, elongated brick building on Coalter Street, under the helm of James Beard Award nominated chef Ian Boden. Zynodoah – a playful allusion to the Shenandoah Valley – focuses more on Southern cuisine. The restaurant reimagines dishes like chicken and dumplings, and is big on gathering ingredients from local farmers. “They also have great cocktails,” says Harris. Coffee shops and baked goods are another feature of the scene, whether that comes in the form of a French pastry from Reunion Bakery or a brown sugar latte at Crucible Coffee. Numerous breweries, including Cider from Mars, serve as venues for hanging out and watching live music.
The Pampered Palate Cafe in Staunton is a little sandwich shop located on East Beverly St.
The Depot Grille is a popular spot to grab a drink after work.
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Amtrak downtown, and a pair of interstates nearby
Downtown Staunton is walkable, but also marked by the confluence of U.S. Routes 250 and 11, which meet near the city’s Amtrak station. Interstate 81 forms the city’s eastern border. Interstate 64 is nearby as well, offering an hour’s drive to Charlottesville, where residents have access to University of Virginia and extensive health care facilities.
Most crime decreasing, and new response programs
In response to an increase in mental health and substance abuse incidents, police have adopted the Human Service Alternative Response, which requires training for personnel. Albemarle County Police report that there was a decrease in most crimes, except violent ones, in 2023.
Written By
Paul Spencer
Photography Contributed By
Jack Adams
Video By
Benjamin Rose
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Spencer Wenger,
an experienced agent in this area.
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 Staunton, VA sell after 6 days on the market compared to the national average of 57 days. The median sale price for homes in Staunton, VA over the last 12 months is $185,500.
Welcome to 11 Two Wood Ln, Staunton, a beautifully maintained 4-bedroom, 2-bath brick Craftsman-style home offering warmth, character, and exceptional outdoor living. Step inside to an inviting open living room anchored by a cozy wood-burning stove, creating the perfect gathering space year-round. The kitchen features custom pine cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, a gas range, and a center
MOVE-IN READY! Welcome to the Neuville, a beautifully designed home offering a modern and spacious open-concept living space. Perfect for families or those seeking one-level living, this home features a large great room, a kitchen with a large center island and walk-in pantry, ideal for entertaining or family gatherings. The laundry room offers convenience and functionality. The primary suite is
QUICK MOVE-IN! Welcome to this charming ranch-style home, offering 1,698 square feet of comfortable, one-level living designed with ease and convenience in mind. With 4 bedrooms and 2 baths, this thoughtfully designed floorplan features an open concept that seamlessly connects the spacious living, dining, and kitchen areas—perfect for both everyday living and entertaining. Step outside to a large
Move-in ready home tucked into one of Staunton’s most established & convenient locations. Inside, you’ll find a freshly painted interior complemented by beautiful oak floors that add warmth and timeless appeal. The kitchen has new luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring & brand-new appliances. Major system updates set this home apart, including *a new roof*,* a new heat pump*,* an updated electrical
Perched on Campbell, with fantastic views of the mountains, this practically brand new home is move- in ready and in fantastic condition. The exterior does not show how much space this lovely home really has. The first floor features a spacious open concept with eat-in kitchen and dining and a huge living room. Upstairs features 3 bedrooms, including a large primary with gorgeous tiled shower
Welcome to 11 Two Wood Ln, Staunton, a beautifully maintained 4-bedroom, 2-bath brick Craftsman-style home offering warmth, character, and exceptional outdoor living. Step inside to an inviting open living room anchored by a cozy wood-burning stove, creating the perfect gathering space year-round. The kitchen features custom pine cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, a gas range, and a center
Welcome to your modern mountain-view retreat in the highly coveted Olde South Village subdivision! This meticulously maintained 2018-built ranch-style home offers the ultimate in one-level living with a bright, open-concept floor plan designed for effortless entertaining. Step inside to find soaring vaulted ceilings, 9' walls, and stunning hardwood and ceramic tile flooring throughout—completely
The Cabral, a 1,665 square foot two-story home, offers an open-concept design perfect for modern living. Featuring three bedrooms, two and a half bathrooms, a versatile loft, and a two-car garage, this home is ideal for families seeking both space and functionality. Upon entering through the front porch, you'll find a convenient first-floor powder room and coat closet in the foyer. The spacious
Brand new 6-bedroom 9-bath custom home offering unparalleled details. Best location in the Valley with a 2-acre lot. Endless, magnificent mountain views with luxury finishes at every turn. Through the double alder wood front door is a soaring ceiling with tiered chandelier. The gourmet kitchen has chestnut cabinets, a coffered ceiling, granite countertops, Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances, 2 islands,
Welcome to the Neuville, a beautifully designed single-story home offering a modern and spacious open-concept living space. Perfect for families or those seeking one-level living, this home features a large great room, a kitchen with a large center island and walk-in pantry, ideal for entertaining or family gatherings. The laundry room offers convenience and functionality. The primary suite is a
Welcome to this charming ranch-style home, offering 1,698 square feet of comfortable, one-level living designed with ease and convenience in mind. With 4 bedrooms and 2 baths, this thoughtfully designed floorplan features an open concept that seamlessly connects the spacious living, dining, and kitchen areas—perfect for both everyday living and entertaining.Step outside to a large deck or
This is an incredible home on acreage in Staunton, Virginia. A private driveway leads you up to the home that boasts breathtaking panoramic mountain and valley views. Thoughtful landscaping surrounds the home. The large, 7,000 square foot custom home has stone accents and beautiful wooden beams. Once inside, you will immediately notice the incredible attention to detail, with custom wood flooring
Welcome to the Neuville, a beautifully designed 1,698 sq ft single-story home offering a modern and spacious open-concept living space. Perfect for families or those seeking one-level living, this home features a large great room, a kitchen with a large center island and walk-in pantry, ideal for entertaining or family gatherings. The laundry room offers convenience and functionality. The primary
The 1649 sq ft Glendale model offers a spacious open-concept living space designed for modern living. The main level features a powder room, a bright kitchen area that opens into a large family room, perfect for both daily living and entertaining. Upstairs, the large primary suite provides a luxurious retreat with an oversized walk-in closet and a bath with separate vanities for added convenience
Big Sky Apartments, Staunton, Va offers apartment homes that allow you to live luxuriously while still getting the best value in apartment living. Your Shenandoah Valley apartment home allows you to enjoy modern living spaces with up-to-date appliances, attractive apartment features, clubhouse, swimming pool, fitness center and convenience! Big Sky Apartment is centrally located near
Easy walk downtown or to Mary Baldlwin. Washer dryer hookup. Large back yard shared. Near school for Deaf and Bind. Owner/agent Am told building was once a stage coach inn.
Updated -- New Paint, New flooring, New lights, New appliances. Washer & Dryer included. One level living. New Quartz Countertop being installed. Must text or call Property manager for Criteria prior to showing- 540-294-0052, swnygroup@yahoo.com - Clarese Wilkerson Security Deposit 1 months rent. $35.00 Application fee. 1 year lease required NO pets unit
Fabulous, roomy, and luxurious townhome living conveniently located near the Staunton bypass, only a few minutes from the interstates. Three levels of living, gleaming hardwood floors, and new carpet in the MBR. Could be four bedrooms. Quiet location. Maintenance-free, no-worry living. No utilities included. Propane heat, hot water, and cooking. Propane furnished by Lacey Propane ($250 propane
Thanks for your interest in Waterford Village in Staunton, VA. This community is located in the 24401 area of Staunton. From amenities to availability, the professional leasing team will assist you in finding your perfect new place. Give us a call now to schedule your tour.
Introducing The Village at Mint Spring! One of Augusta County's first 55+ Community's! Brand new with the most AMAZING mountain views, located just off I81 in a hot new neighborhood! One level living duplex built with "Aging in place" in mind, one level living, wide doorways, roll in showers, and maintenance free lifestyle. Offering over 1800 sq ft with more space available to expand upstairs if
CHARITY COXLONG & FOSTER REAL ESTATE INC STAUNTON/WAYNESBORO
At Springhill Village Apartments in Staunton, experience fine living. The leasing staff is ready to help you find your perfect fit. Come for a visit to check out the apartment floorplan options. A unique selection of amenities is waiting for you at this community. Some of these include: a community picnic area, high-speed internet access, and laundry service. Contact us or drop by the leasing
Your next haven in Staunton awaits! This charming two-story home offers both space and convenience. On the first floor, enjoy a large living room, dining area, and a well-appointed kitchen with access to a back deck, perfect for relaxing or entertaining. Upstairs, you’ll find three bedrooms, including a spacious primary suite with double sinks and a walk-in shower. The basement level offers a
Discover the perfect blend of comfort and convenience at 68 Woodlee Road! This pet-friendly property offers spacious living in a serene setting, ideal for those who value privacy and easy access to local amenities.Property HighlightsWater & Trash Included – Simplify your monthly expenses.Renewal Lease: 12 Months – Enjoy stability and peace of mind.Pet-Friendly – Over 1 acre of
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