countyscore
40.3
County Score
Disaster Risk 75.7Schools 73.3Weather & Climate 69.1

County Report Card

About Charlottesville city, Virginia

A High-Opportunity City with High Costs

Charlottesville city scores a 40.3, falling below the national median of 50.0. While it offers elite amenities, significant cost and safety challenges drag down its overall composite ranking.

An Outlier in the Virginia Average

Charlottesville’s score of 40.3 sits below the Virginia state average of 50.9. The city faces a unique struggle where high educational and income levels are offset by extreme housing costs.

Top-Tier Schools and High Earning Potential

The city excels in education with a school score of 73.3 and a strong income score of 65.9. Residents earn a median of $69,829 and benefit from a very safe environmental profile (75.7 risk score).

Severe Affordability and Safety Concerns

Housing cost is a major hurdle with a score of 6.7 and median home values of $448,400. Furthermore, the safety score of 3.6 indicates significant public safety challenges compared to other Virginia localities.

Best for Academics and High-Income Professionals

Charlottesville is best for those who prioritize elite education and cultural amenities over affordability. It suits families who can navigate the high housing prices to take advantage of its excellent school system.

Score breakdown

Tax52Cost6.7Safety3.6Health65.3Schools73.3Income65.9Risk75.7WaterComing SoonWeather69.1
🏛52
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠6.7
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼65.9
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡3.6
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤65.3
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓73.3
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡75.7
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤69.1
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨7.2
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱40
Lawn Care
Lawn difficulty score based on climate, soil, and grass suitability
LawnByCounty →
🛒
Farmers Markets
Local market density, SNAP/EBT acceptance, and product variety
MarketsByCounty →
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Louisa County
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Deep Dives

Charlottesville city across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 9 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Charlottesville city

via TaxByCounty

Charlottesville taxes well above average

At 0.814%, Charlottesville's effective tax rate exceeds the national median of 0.83%, placing it in the upper half nationally. The median property tax of $3,649 is 36% higher than the national median of $2,690.

Virginia's highest taxing jurisdiction here

Charlottesville's 0.814% rate is the highest among the eight profiled counties and well above Virginia's state average of 0.671%. The city demands substantially more property tax than typical Virginia residents pay.

Far steeper taxes than surrounding areas

Charlottesville's $3,649 median tax dwarfs nearby Caroline ($1,585) and Buena Vista ($1,444), with a median home value of $448,400 that reflects the city's affluence. The city's 0.814% rate is the highest in the entire region.

What your taxes look like here

On Charlottesville's median home value of $448,400, you'd pay approximately $3,649 annually in property taxes. Homeowners with mortgages typically pay $3,685, while those owning outright pay around $3,585.

High taxes demand careful assessment review

With Charlottesville's premium tax rate and high home values, ensuring accurate assessment is critical to controlling your tax bill. Property owners should meticulously compare their assessed value to recent comparable sales and appeal aggressively if overassessed.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Charlottesville city

via CostByCounty

Charlottesville's housing crisis strains residents

Charlottesville City's 25% rent-to-income ratio ranks among the nation's highest affordability crises, exceeding Virginia's state average by 35% despite earning $69,829 annually. Renters and buyers here face the region's most severe housing cost burden.

Virginia's most expensive and least affordable city

Charlottesville ranks dead last in Virginia for affordability, with a rent-to-income ratio of 25% and median home values of $448,400—the state's highest. The city's housing market prices out all but the wealthiest residents.

Triple the rent, double the home prices

Charlottesville's $1,453 rent nearly doubles Campbell County's $853 and quadruples Carroll's $687, while $448,400 median homes cost 2.2 times Caroline County's $283,100. The city operates in an entirely different economic universe from surrounding counties.

Quarter of income vanishes to housing costs

Charlottesville renters earning $69,829 devote a severe 25% to $1,453 monthly rent, while owner-occupants spend 28.5% on $1,661 mortgage payments. Both renting and buying consume an outsized share of household budgets here.

Charlottesville for the affluent or relocate

Only households earning $100,000+ comfortably absorb Charlottesville's $1,453 rents and $448,400 home prices; others should compare to nearby Campbell County ($853 rent) or Carroll County ($687 rent) for 50% cost savings. The city's amenities demand premium pricing most relocators cannot justify.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Charlottesville city

via IncomeByCounty

Charlottesville moderately below national income

Charlottesville's median household income of $69,829 trails the national median of $74,755 by 7%. The city's above-average per capita income of $48,395 reflects a diverse workforce anchored by the University of Virginia and professional services.

Below Virginia average but affluent core

Charlottesville's $69,829 median household income is about $5,000 below Virginia's average of $74,957. However, the per capita income of $48,395 significantly exceeds Virginia's $39,155, indicating concentrations of highly educated, high-earning professionals.

Mid-range income in regional context

Charlottesville's $69,829 median falls between Campbell County ($62,608) and Caroline County ($86,267). The city earns substantially more than Charlotte ($48,892) and Buena Vista ($54,458), reflecting its role as a regional economic hub.

Housing costs strain even strong incomes

Charlottesville's rent-to-income ratio of 25.0% approaches the alert threshold, indicating housing costs consume one-quarter of median income. The median home value of $448,400 is nearly triple the state average, reflecting gentrification and university-driven demand.

Navigate high costs with smart planning

Charlottesville's high housing costs challenge even above-average earners, but the city's educated workforce has strong income-growth potential. Focus on negotiating competitive salaries, exploring employer benefits and stock options, and seeking creative housing solutions like co-investments or shared ownership models.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Charlottesville city

via CrimeByCounty

Urban Crime in Charlottesville

Charlottesville's total crime rate of 3875.6 per 100K is higher than the national average of 2,385.5. This results in a safety score of 93.9, reflecting its status as a busy urban center.

City Safety vs State Average

With a safety score of 93.9, the city falls below the Virginia average of 97.3. Because data comes from a single agency, these numbers specifically reflect activity within the city limits.

Regional Activity Levels

The city's crime rate of 3875.6 is more than double the Virginia average of 1728.8 per 100K. It experiences significantly more law enforcement activity than the surrounding rural counties in the Piedmont region.

Charlottesville's Crime Breakdown

Property crime drives local statistics at 3344.2 per 100K, which is 65% higher than the national average. Violent crime also exceeds national figures, reaching 531.4 per 100K compared to 369.8 nationwide.

Protecting Your Urban Home

Given higher property crime rates, investing in home security systems and smart locks is highly recommended for city residents. Vigilance and modern safety tech play a key role in urban protection.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Charlottesville city

via HealthByCounty

Charlottesville leads in health and longevity

Charlottesville residents enjoy a life expectancy of 78.3 years, approaching the U.S. average of 79.3 years and placing the city among America's healthier communities. Only 18.6% report poor or fair health, well below national medians, reflecting strong overall population wellness.

Virginia's healthiest community surveyed

Charlottesville's 78.3-year life expectancy far exceeds Virginia's 75.1-year average by over 3 years, making it the state's healthiest jurisdiction in this analysis. The city's 18.6% poor/fair health rate ties the state's best performers, demonstrating exceptional health management and outcomes.

Dramatically outpaces surrounding counties

Charlottesville's 78.3-year life expectancy surpasses every neighboring county by 2-7 years, with Campbell (76.5 years) as the closest peer. Its 8.0% uninsured rate matches the state average despite the city's superior healthcare infrastructure and wealth.

Exceptional healthcare infrastructure nationwide

Charlottesville has 285 primary care providers per 100,000 residents and an extraordinary 1,198 mental health providers per 100,000—among the highest densities in America. This concentration, likely driven by the University of Virginia's medical complex, creates unparalleled access to comprehensive care.

Leverage Charlottesville's exceptional care

Even with lower uninsured rates, Charlottesville residents should maintain continuous coverage to fully benefit from the city's exceptional healthcare resources. Visit healthcare.gov to ensure your plan keeps you connected to these world-class providers and services.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Charlottesville city

via SchoolsByCounty

Dynamic Urban Education in Charlottesville

Charlottesville city hosts 13 public schools serving a diverse population of 5,263 students. The infrastructure features six elementary schools, three middle schools, and two high schools, along with specialized education centers. Two districts operate within the city limits to provide a wide range of academic options.

Top-Tier Results and Significant Investment

The city boasts a 91.7% graduation rate, well above the national average of 87.0% and the state average of 89.0%. This success is backed by a robust $9,637 per-pupil expenditure, one of the higher rates in the state. Consequently, the city's school score of 60.1 significantly exceeds both state and national averages.

City Schools and Specialized Options

Charlottesville City Public Schools is the largest district, managing 10 schools and 4,485 students. The city also features one charter school, representing about 7.7% of the total school landscape, offering families alternative educational models. Other specialized facilities, including programs through the University of Virginia, enrich the local landscape.

Diverse and Centrally Located City Schools

All 13 schools are located in a city setting, providing students with an urban, walkable learning environment. Charlottesville High is the largest campus with 1,359 students, while elementary schools like Clark maintain a more mid-sized feel at 353 students. The average school size of 478 reflects a well-balanced city system.

Live in a Hub of Academic Excellence

Charlottesville is a premier destination for families who prioritize high-performing schools and urban amenities. With scores well above the state average, a home here is an investment in quality education. Explore neighborhoods near Walker Upper Elementary or Charlottesville High to be at the heart of this vibrant district.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Charlottesville city

via RiskByCounty

Charlottesville's risk approaches national norm

Charlottesville city's composite risk score of 24.33 and Very Low rating sit slightly below the national average, reflecting moderate natural disaster exposure typical of many American cities. The city's hazard profile mixes low wildfire risk with elevated earthquake and hurricane concerns.

Slightly below Virginia's average risk

Charlottesville city's composite score of 24.33 falls modestly below Virginia's state average of 33.27, placing it among the commonwealth's lower-risk jurisdictions. The city benefits from topography and climate that moderate most hazard exposures relative to state peers.

More exposed than western peer counties

Charlottesville city's risk score of 24.33 exceeds nearby Buckingham County (18.96), Charlotte County (17.37), and Charles City County (9.32) but trails Campbell County (32.00). Its exceptionally low wildfire risk at 0.32 stands apart, distinguishing it among the safest communities for this particular hazard.

Earthquake and hurricane dominate exposure

Charlottesville city faces its highest hazard exposure through earthquakes at 70.87 and hurricanes at 69.46, with flooding at 33.27 representing a secondary concern. Tornado risk at 24.30 remains moderate, while the city benefits from exceptionally low wildfire risk at just 0.32.

Earthquake coverage and storm prep matter most

Homeowners should consider supplemental earthquake insurance given the city's 70.87 earthquake score, and prepare for hurricanes through roof inspections and tree management. Obtain flood insurance for properties in flood zones, and maintain standard homeowners coverage to address tornado and wind risks.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Soil Quality in Charlottesville city

via SoilByCounty

Distinctive Ultisols of Charlottesville

The city sits on Ultisols with a very low pH of 4.14, making it significantly more acidic than both the state average and the national 6.5 median. These highly weathered soils are characteristic of older urban and forest landscapes.

Classic loamy urban soil

The soil is classified as a loam, featuring a balanced mix of 35.3% sand and 28.4% silt. This texture is highly prized for its versatility and is much easier to work than heavy clay soils.

Moderate growth potential

Organic matter stands at 1.32%, which is below the state average of 2.90%. The available water capacity of 0.128 in/in is also lower than the state mark, meaning urban gardens may require more frequent watering.

Well-drained and stable

The soil is officially 'Well drained' and belongs to Hydrologic Group B. This makes it excellent for urban development and most landscaping, as it moves water efficiently without excessive runoff.

Urban gardening potential

While hardiness zone data is limited for the city center, the local climate supports a wide range of temperate plants. Add lime to correct the 4.14 pH and watch your backyard berries flourish.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Charlottesville city

via LawnByCounty

Overcoming Hard Ground in Charlottesville

Charlottesville faces a lawn difficulty score of 40.0, making it significantly harder to grow grass here than in most of Virginia. This rating reflects unique local challenges that require more than just basic mowing.

Mild Heat with Strong Rainfall

With 23 extreme heat days, Charlottesville is cooler than the state average, which is great for cool-season grasses. The city enjoys 46.4 inches of annual precipitation, providing plenty of natural irrigation during the growing months.

Correcting Highly Acidic Loam

The soil pH of 4.14 is extremely acidic, which can be hostile to most traditional lawn grasses. Despite having a desirable 'well-drained loam' texture, the soil requires significant lime and phosphorus to support healthy turf.

Defeating the Severe Local Drought

Charlottesville is currently 100.0% under severe drought conditions after 30 weeks of dry weather this past year. Property owners should focus on drought-resistant species and avoid mowing too short during these high-stress periods.

Seeding for Success in the City

Tall fescue is the most resilient choice for the city's acidic loam, provided you treat the pH levels first. Because of the current drought, consider waiting for a rainy autumn window to start new seed or install sod.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Charlottesville city's county score?
Charlottesville city, Virginia has a composite county score of 40.3 out of 100 on CountyScore. This score is calculated from a weighted average of available data dimensions including property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools.
How does Charlottesville city rank among counties in Virginia?
Charlottesville city ranks #109 among all counties in Virginia on CountyScore's composite ranking. Rankings are based on available data dimensions and updated as new data is added.
What are property taxes like in Charlottesville city, Virginia?
The median annual property tax in Charlottesville city is $3,649, with an effective tax rate of 0.81%. This earns Charlottesville city a tax score of 52/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Charlottesville city?
The median household income in Charlottesville city, Virginia is $69,829 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Charlottesville city earns an income score of 65.9/100 on CountyScore.
Is Charlottesville city, Virginia a good place to live?
Charlottesville city scores 40.3/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #109 in Virginia. The best way to evaluate Charlottesville city is to compare individual dimension scores — property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools — based on your personal priorities. Use CountyScore to compare Charlottesville city with other counties side by side.

ByCounty Network

🏛Property Tax🏠Cost of Living💼Income & Jobs🛡Safety❤Health🎓Schools⚡Disaster Risk💧Water Quality🌤Weather & Climate🪨Soil Quality🌱Lawn Care🛒Farmers Markets

Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.