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
Susan Melendez,
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 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Staunton, VA over the last 12 months is $185,500.
Looking for a home you can make your own while building instant equity? This is your chance! This inviting 3-bedroom, 2-bath courtyard home features beautiful details throughout, including cathedral ceilings, crown moldings, built-in bookshelves, and a cozy gas fireplace that adds warmth and character to the main living space. Enjoy a comfortable and functional layout with main-level living,
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
Welcome to the Neuville in Red Oaks, a beautifully designed single-story home offering a modern and spacious open-concept living space. Perfect for families or those seeking one-level, maintenance free 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
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 this classic 1965 Staunton home, where mid-century character meets excellent future potential! Nestled on a comfortable 0.2-acre city lot with NO HOA fees or restrictions, this property balances cozy everyday living with room to expand. The main level offers a highly efficient 960 sq ft floor plan filled with the timeless warmth and solid bones unique to an older home. Downstairs, you
Charming 1950's home with major system updates completed in the past 6 months, including a new roof, a new heat pump and ductwork, an updated electrical panel box, new kitchen appliances, a freshly painted interior, new LPV flooring in the kitchen and bath, some new plumbing, and a new water line from the meter to the house. These recent repairs will create long-term value and reduced maintenance
Looking for a home you can make your own while building instant equity? This is your chance! This inviting 3-bedroom, 2-bath courtyard home features beautiful details throughout, including cathedral ceilings, crown moldings, built-in bookshelves, and a cozy gas fireplace that adds warmth and character to the main living space. Enjoy a comfortable and functional layout with main-level living,
Perched on Campbell, with fantastic views of the mountains, this practically brand new home is move- in ready & 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 & dining and a huge living room. Upstairs features 3 bedrooms, including a large primary with gorgeous tiled shower ensuite
There are beautiful old homes and then there are showstopping old homes. This one is a showstopper! So many houses don't retain their character through years of updates, but this circa 1839 Federal- style home has all of its original charm with classic modern amenities that blend seamlessly throughout the home. Featuring 2 bedrooms and 2 full baths as well as a walk-up attic that is used as a
Historic charm meets modern convenience at 119 Points St in Staunton. Built in the 1880's and beautifully maintained, this stunning home offers timeless character paired with thoughtful updates throughout. The light-filled kitchen features modern amenities while preserving the warmth and charm of the home’s historic roots. Updated bathrooms add comfort and style, while the one-bedroom basement
Welcome to the 2511 sq ft Hayden model, offering a modern open-concept living space designed for both comfort and flexibility. The main level features a welcoming living room, a spacious dining room, and a well-appointed kitchen with walk-in pantry, perfect for family gatherings and entertaining. The main floor also includes a full bedroom, a bathroom, and a versatile flex room, allowing you to
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
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
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
Welcome to Belmont Terrace Apartments, nestled in one of Stauntons most scenic and convenient locations. Located in a peaceful residential area, our property offers quick access to the vibrant downtown Staunton scene, known for its historic charm, unique boutiques, and celebrated local eateries. With Gypsy Hill Park just minutes away, residents can enjoy beautiful walking trails, a golf course,
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.
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
Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Staunton offers unrivaled scenic views year-round. Just off of I-81, our location provides unprecedented highway access to both I-81 and I-64. Unwind by our sparkling swimming pool, bond with friends or family and fish in one of our two stocked ponds, or have a picnic with your significant other. The Grove at Manchester has a little something
Property Id: 25880201 Bedroom/1 Bath Apartment available on second floor in beautiful Staunton, within walking distance of Mary Baldwin University. Apartment has large, bright windows, with a main living space, outside porch access, and a brand new kitchen (Photos are from a similar unit in building). There is a $200 monthly utility fee that covers electric, heating, water, sewer, trash,
Property Id: 2582959A comfortable single-family home with three bedrooms and one bath. It has a reasonably sized backyard with room for outdoor activities. The home offers a driveway and has a rural feel despite being relatively close to the city of Staunton! Great for accessibility.
Property Id: 2076111Seeking a female for a private bedroom in a SHARED two-bedroom apartment located on the first floor. The bedroom has high ceilings, bright windows, and walk-in closet. The unit has a shared living space, dining/study area, kitchen, and bathroom. Enjoy the outdoor porch that sits off the main living space. Secured front and rear porch access. Walking distance to Mary
Property Id: 1849916Be the first to live in these brand-new luxury townhomes at 1006 Pocahontas Ave, Staunton. These thoughtfully designed 4-bedroom homes offer premium finishes, spacious layouts, and a rare first-floor master suite — just minutes from groceries, restaurants, and interstate.
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