Preston Forest, Blacksburg,VA

Preston Forest is a charming neighborhood nestled in the south east part of Blacksburg, VA, that offers a wonderful blend of suburban tranquility and community spirit. If you’re moving to the area, you’ll appreciate the peaceful streets lined with mature trees and well-kept homes, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The neighborhood is popular among families, professionals, and students alike, thanks to its friendly vibe and convenient access to local amenities. Whether you enjoy evening strolls, weekend bike rides, or simply relaxing in a cozy backyard, Preston Forest provides the perfect setting for a comfortable lifestyle.

One of the standout features of Preston Forest is its close proximity to some of Blacksburg’s favorite attractions. Residents can easily access the scenic Huckleberry Trail, a beloved walking and biking path that winds through the natural beauty of the area, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. The neighborhood also benefits from nearby parks and recreational facilities, offering plenty of options for sports, picnics, and community gatherings. For those who love a bit of shopping or dining out, Preston Forest is just a short drive from the bustling University Mall area, where you’ll find a variety of restaurants, boutiques, and entertainment options to suit all tastes.

Getting to Downtown Blacksburg from Preston Forest is a breeze, with just a quick 10 to 15-minute drive separating you from the heart of the city. This means you can enjoy the quiet suburban feel while still having easy access to the vibrant downtown scene, including local shops, cafes, and cultural events. The convenient location also means that Virginia Tech’s campus is within easy reach, making it ideal for students or university staff moving to the area. Overall, Preston Forest offers a balanced lifestyle that combines the best of peaceful neighborhood living with the excitement and convenience of nearby city amenities.

In Preston Forest, 33% of residents aged 16 and older are married, which is notably higher than the national average. This could point to a more settled, community-driven neighborhood where long-term residents and homeowners are common. It’s the kind of place where stability, and a close-knit atmosphere make it especially appealing to families and couples looking to put down roots.

With only 33% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Preston Forest demographics offer valuable insights into the character and lifestyle of the neighborhood, helping you understand who lives there and what daily life might feel like. Home to only about 89 residents, Preston Forest is notably smaller than many other Blacksburg neighborhoods, creating a more peaceful and community-oriented atmosphere. Its lower population can translate to quieter streets, a more relaxed pace of life, and easier access to local amenities — all without sacrificing the vibrant urban lifestyle the city is known for.

With a lower than average population density of 81 people per square mile, Preston Forest offers a more open and spacious environment compared to many other Blacksburg neighborhoods. This often means quieter streets, less congestion, and a relaxed atmosphere — all while still providing access to the amenities and conveniences of city living.

Home to a population with a higher-than-average age of 46, this area offers a calm and refined atmosphere shaped by experience and tradition. The neighborhood’s more mature demographic fosters a strong sense of community, a relaxed pace of life, and an environment that’s both welcoming and well-established — making it an especially appealing choice for retirees seeking comfort, stability, and connection.

The Preston Forest crime map uses detailed block group boundaries from address-based crime data to visualize crime patterns across the neighborhood, highlighting both low-crime zones and areas with higher levels of reported crime. This crime heat map helps paint a clearer picture of local safety trends, showing how crime can vary from one part of the community to another. Keep in mind that areas with higher activity on the map don’t always equate to dangerous conditions — locations near entertainment districts, major roads, or tourist destinations often see more reports simply due to the larger number of people passing through.

Housing costs often reflect the desirability and overall character of a neighborhood. In Preston Forest, home prices come in around $438,800, which is higher than many other areas. This elevated pricing points to a sought-after location with strong demand, well-maintained properties, and access to premium amenities that contribute to a higher quality of life. Historical home price trends and appreciation rates in Preston Forest can serve as a window into the neighborhood’s economic strength and future potential. By understanding how the market has performed in the past, buyers and investors can better evaluate whether the area offers promising opportunities for growth and long-term value.

With an average rent price of $1,527, rental rates in Preston Forest are higher than many other neighborhoods. This reflects the area’s desirability and strong demand, often accompanied by well-maintained properties, premium amenities, and a high quality of life.

School quality plays an important role in shaping the overall appeal of a neighborhood like Preston Forest. Ratings based on student achievement, graduation rates, and standardized tests — supported by national benchmarks like the NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) — help paint a clearer picture of how local schools perform. Additionally, understanding the education levels of residents in Preston Forest offers valuable context about the community’s emphasis on learning and opportunity, helping families make confident decisions about where to settle and invest in their children’s future.