Loudon-Melrose Home for Rent

Loudon-Melrose, a historic neighborhood in northwest Roanoke, developed around the Salem-Melrose streetcar line in the 1920s, features bungalows and cottages built for working-class families. The area, characterized by its industrial roots, is near the Roanoke Rail Yard and includes businesses like auto parts stores and heating oil suppliers. Residential streets to the north feature small houses from the early to mid-1900s. The community is served by the Melrose Library, which offers practical resources and hosts events such as open mic nights and summer reading programs. Melrose Plaza, currently under development, will soon provide a grocery store, bank, health clinic, and adult high school with childcare services. Dining options are limited but include takeout spots like Island Jerk, China Lite, and Screaming Vegan. Melrose Park, the neighborhood's only public green space, offers basketball courts, a playground, and a shaded picnic pavilion. While sidewalks are inconsistent, residents can drive or use Valley Metro buses for transportation. The neighborhood is about a mile from Washington Park, which connects to the Lick Run Greenway trail. For shopping, Valley View Mall, Walmart, and Target are 4 miles north. The area has a lower income level, and schools such as Roanoke Academy for Math and Science Elementary and Lucy Addison Middle have average ratings, while Patrick Henry High School has a higher rating and offers various career pathways.