Harrisonburg,VA Neighborhood Guides
Neighborhoods in Harrisonburg, VA – Data, Lifestyle & Local Insights
Neighborhood Map
Discovering the Best Neighborhoods in Harrisonburg: A Guide to Vibrant Living
Harrisonburg, Virginia, is a charming city nestled in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, known for its welcoming community and diverse neighborhoods. Whether you’re looking for a quiet, family-friendly area or a bustling hub near downtown, Harrisonburg offers a variety of options that cater to different lifestyles. From historic districts with quaint homes to modern developments with all the amenities, Harrisonburg neighborhoods have something unique to offer everyone. If you’re considering making this city your home, exploring the Harrisonburg neighborhoods map can be a great starting point to understand the layout and vibe of each area.
Lifestyle Variety: What Different Areas Offer
Harrisonburg’s neighborhoods range from the lively Downtown district, where you can enjoy eclectic restaurants like Bella Luna Wood-Fired Pizza and local breweries, to the peaceful, suburban feel of Westover Hills with its tree-lined streets and parks. For those who love the outdoors, neighborhoods near Purcell Park provide easy access to walking trails and open green spaces. Meanwhile, areas like Stone Spring offer a more modern, family-oriented lifestyle with shopping centers and community pools. Each neighborhood has its own flair, making it easy to find a spot that fits your daily life and interests.
Housing, Affordability & Market Conditions
When considering the best neighborhoods in Harrisonburg, affordability is a big plus. The city boasts a competitive housing market with a variety of options, from charming historic homes in the North End to newer townhouses and apartments in places like Midtown. Overall, Harrisonburg remains more affordable compared to other cities in Virginia, with median home prices that welcome first-time buyers and families alike. For renters, neighborhoods near James Madison University tend to have a steady market with plenty of apartments and shared housing options. Keeping an eye on the Harrisonburg neighborhoods map can help you spot the areas with the best investment potential and lifestyle fit.
The Structure, Culture & Personality of the City’s Neighborhoods
Each Harrisonburg neighborhood has its own unique personality shaped by residents, local businesses, and community events. The Historic Court Square area buzzes with a mix of arts, music, and cultural festivals, reflecting the city’s progressive spirit. In contrast, neighborhoods like Sunnyside and South East have a strong sense of community with neighborhood associations and block parties that bring neighbors together. Harrisonburg’s structure is a blend of walkable urban spaces and quiet residential streets, allowing residents to enjoy both convenience and comfort depending on where they settle.
Things to Do: What Are Some Popular Attractions and Things to Do
Living in Harrisonburg means having plenty of attractions and activities right at your doorstep. The vibrant Downtown area is home to the lively Main Street Market, where you can find fresh local produce and handmade crafts. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the nearby Shenandoah National Park or spend weekends at the Edith J. Carrier Arboretum, which is a lovely spot for hiking and birdwatching. The city also hosts annual events like the Harrisonburg Farmers Market and the Rocktown Beer & Music Festival, making every season exciting for residents of different neighborhoods.
Colleges & Universities: What Neighborhoods Are the Colleges/Universities Located In?
James Madison University (JMU), a major educational and cultural hub, is located near several neighborhoods popular with students and faculty, including the North End and parts of Downtown Harrisonburg. These areas offer a mix of student housing, cafes, and nightlife spots. The university’s presence brings youthful energy and cultural events to the city, influencing the local economy and entertainment options. For families or professionals looking for quieter surroundings, neighborhoods just a bit further from campus provide a more tranquil feel without sacrificing access to university amenities.
What Are Some Things People Might Not Know About These Neighborhoods?
Many people might not realize that some of Harrisonburg’s best neighborhoods are steeped in history, with homes dating back to the 19th century that have been beautifully preserved. Additionally, Harrisonburg has a thriving arts scene spread throughout its neighborhoods, with local galleries and studios tucked away in unexpected spots. Another fun fact is that the city embraces sustainable living with community gardens and farmers markets that pop up in different neighborhoods throughout the year. Exploring the Harrisonburg neighborhoods map can reveal hidden gems and lesser-known pockets that offer a strong sense of community and unique local flavor.
Harrisonburg Demographics
Best Neighborhoods
| Hood | Med. Age | Have Kids | Home Price | Med. Income | Affordability |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eversole Road | 37.5 | 41.6% | $453,800 | $121,149 | 3.7 |
| Monte Vista Estates | 37.5 | 41.6% | $453,800 | $121,149 | 3.7 |
| Sportswood Country Club | 39.9 | 25.6% | $334,100 | $88,373 | 3.8 |
| Reherd Acres | 36.5 | 35.3% | $258,383 | $68,589 | 3.9 |
| Central Avenue | 34.4 | 31.6% | $267,400 | $66,053 | 3.9 |
| Belmont Estates | 49.8 | 32.1% | $424,600 | $109,398 | 3.9 |
| Covenant Drive | 34.2 | 36.7% | $260,550 | $62,591 | 4.1 |
| Sunrise Heights | 36.2 | 21.8% | $281,475 | $67,874 | 4.4 |
| Northeast | 37.9 | 21.5% | $208,986 | $47,360 | 4.6 |
| Reservoir | 34.7 | 34.7% | $251,100 | $54,663 | 4.7 |
Harrisonburg neighborhoods bring their own blend of lifestyle, affordability, and long-term appeal, and the data in the table above helps highlight what makes each area stand out. By comparing home prices, median income, average age, families with kids, and housing affordability ratios, you can quickly uncover the best neighborhoods in Harrisonburg—those that balance cost, character, and overall livability. For budget-minded buyers, the table also makes it easy to identify the most affordable neighborhoods in Harrisonburg, where lower home prices combined with local income levels create meaningful value. Families can use the children-per-household data to pinpoint the best neighborhoods for families, revealing which areas offer strong community connections and a family-friendly atmosphere. Meanwhile, adults looking for quieter, age-friendly surroundings can turn to neighborhoods with higher median ages to find the best neighborhoods for retirees, where comfort, stability, and an easy pace of living tend to define the local experience. This data-driven overview offers a clear starting point for understanding how each neighborhood aligns with the lifestyle you want.
Crime in Harrisonburg
| Crime |
Reported |
Harrisonburg /100k |
VA /100k |
National /100k |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Murder | 0 | 0.0 | 4.8 | 5.0 |
| Rape | 29 | 56.6 | 27.8 | 37.5 |
| Robbery | 11 | 21.5 | 33.1 | 60.6 |
| Assault | 97 | 189.2 | 152.2 | 256.1 |
| Total Violent Crime | 137 | 267 | 218 | 359 |
| Burglary | 69 | 134.6 | 108.7 | 229.2 |
| Theft | 755 | 1,472.6 | 1,315.9 | 1,272.1 |
| Vehicle Theft | 44 | 85.8 | 145.1 | 258.8 |
| Total Property Crime | 868 | 1,693 | 1,570 | 1,760 |
| TOTAL CRIME | 1,005 | 1,960 | 1,788 | 2,119 |