10 Best Neighborhoods In Albemarle County For Families in 2026

By Toby Beavers, a top Albemarle County Realtor since 2003

When families move to Albemarle County, they’re not just buying square footage; they’re buying a routine. School runs.

Trails after dinner. Swim team summers. A neighborhood where kids can find friends fast, and parents don’t feel like they’re starting over.

Quick Skim: My “Best Fit” Picks for 10 Best Neighborhoods In Albemarle County For Families in 2026

If you want a fast shortlist:

1) Ashcroft

Ashcroft is one of those neighborhoods that feels like a mountain retreat, yet you are only minutes from everything Charlottesville offers. Families love the privacy of wooded homesites combined with strong community energy. Kids grow up exploring the trail system, riding bikes on quiet streets, and meeting friends at the playground. The community pool becomes a central gathering point in summer, and the swim season brings neighbors together quickly. The clubhouse and fitness center make it easy for parents to stay active without leaving the neighborhood.

The tennis and volleyball courts are busy most evenings, and I often see families hosting informal games while younger children play nearby. The preserved natural areas give kids room to explore and develop independence in a safe setting. Parents appreciate that Ashcroft offers space between homes while still delivering organized amenities.

Outside the neighborhood, Pantops makes daily errands easy. Giant, Starbucks, Chick fil A, and multiple local restaurants are right down the road. Martha Jefferson Hospital is also nearby, which gives many families peace of mind. Students typically attend Stone Robinson Elementary, Burley Middle, and Monticello High School within Albemarle County Public Schools. Private school options within a short drive include St. Anne’s Belfield School, Charlottesville Catholic School, and The Covenant School.

Ashcroft works beautifully for families who want nature, views, and strong amenities without sacrificing convenience.

The vibe

Ashcroft is the “wow-view” neighborhood that still works for real life, close to Pantops, I-64, and Sentara Martha Jefferson, but surrounded by woods and privacy. Source

Family-friendly highlights

  • Large lots (noted as 1-3 acres)
  • long hiking trails and nature preserve feel (noted as 170 acres of nature preserve)
  • Amenities parents actually use daily (pool, fitness center, volleyball, tennis courts, playground)
    Source

Quick stats (the stuff people forget to ask)

  • Development size noted as 974 acres
  • HOA noted as $405 quarterly (2025)
    Source

Schools

  • Stone-Robinson Elementary → Burley Middle → Monticello High
    Source

2) Dunlora

Dunlora has long been one of my favorite recommendations for families who want neighborhood energy close to town. The mature trees and established streets give it character that newer developments sometimes lack. Children ride bikes to the pool, walk to the tennis courts, and gather on the soccer field for pickup games.

The walking trails connect sections of the neighborhood, making evening strolls a routine part of family life. The community pool is active all summer, and neighborhood events create easy opportunities to meet other families. Dunlora includes a mix of single family homes and townhomes, which gives buyers flexibility depending on lifestyle and budget.

Parents love the five minute drive to shopping at Stonefield and Barracks Road. Costco, Target, Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods, and Harris Teeter are all within easy reach. Dining options range from casual pizza nights to family dinners downtown.

Public school zoning typically includes Agnor Hurt Elementary, Burley Middle, and Albemarle High School. These schools are known for strong academics and broad extracurricular programs. Nearby private school options include Charlottesville Catholic School and St. Anne’s Belfield.

Dunlora is ideal for families who want convenience, strong resale value, and a true neighborhood feel.

The vibe

Dunlora is about convenience + neighborhood feel, a popular choice for families who want quick access to Charlottesville without being in the middle of city traffic patterns. Source

What’s unique here

Dunlora isn’t just “one” neighborhood. Amenities: a pool, tennis courts, soccer fields, and walking trails. The page describes multiple connected areas (Dunlora Forest, Dunlora Gates, Dunlora Park, Dunlora Village, and Shepherd’s Ridge (Shepherds Ridge is in the Dunlora neighborhood and is made up of townhomes). That matters because the look, density, and day-to-day experience can change depending on which section you’re in. Source

The family checklist

  • Townhome-heavy options (noted as 190 townhomes across the Dunlora communities)
  • A location that makes commutes and errands easier
    Source

Schools

  • Agnor Elementary → Burley Middle → Albemarle High
    Source

3) Forest Lakes

Forest Lakes is one of the most amenity rich communities in Albemarle County. If a family tells me they want activities built into daily life, this is often the first place we tour. With multiple lakes, walking trails, sports courts, playgrounds, and two pools, there is always something happening.

The Forest Lakes Hurricanes swim team is a huge part of summer life. Kids form friendships quickly through swim meets and neighborhood events. The paved trails are perfect for strollers, scooters, and after dinner walks. Parents appreciate the fitness center and the organized clubs that keep the social calendar full.

Hollymead Town Center sits right outside the neighborhood. Target, Harris Teeter, restaurants, coffee shops, and medical offices are all within minutes. Chris Greene Lake Park and local sports complexes provide additional weekend recreation.

Students attend Baker Butler or Hollymead Elementary depending on section, then Lakeside Middle and Albemarle High School. Albemarle County Public Schools offer strong academics, advanced placement courses, arts, and athletics. Private school choices include The Covenant School and Charlottesville Catholic School.

Forest Lakes is built for families who want amenities, structure, and convenience all in one place.

The vibe

Forest Lakes is one of Albemarle County’s most “built-for-families” communities: planned layout, strong amenities, and shopping right outside the perimeter. Source

Why families love it

  • Noted as 1,455 homes (townhomes, duplexes, detached)
  • Six lakes
  • Two pools
  • Tennis + pickleball + fitness center
  • Trails (paved + unpaved), fields, playgrounds, clubs
    Source

Neighborhood culture (big for parents)

  • Forest Lakes has a swim team: the Forest Lakes Hurricanes (Jefferson Area Swim League)
    Source

HOA & zoning details (often missed)

  • HOA noted as $333 quarterly (2025) (with potential additional sub-association dues depending on where you buy)
    Source

Schools (important nuance)

  • Forest Lakes North: Baker-Butler Elementary → Lakeside Middle → Albemarle High
  • Forest Lakes South: Hollymead Elementary → Lakeside Middle → Albemarle High
    Source

4) Ednam Forest

Ednam Forest offers a quieter, more tucked away environment while still being connected to incredible lifestyle opportunities. The wooded setting gives kids room to roam and explore nature. Many families appreciate the larger lot sizes and peaceful streets.

Living near Boar’s Head Resort expands the recreational options dramatically. Families can access tennis, golf, swimming, fitness facilities, and youth camps through optional memberships. The extensive trail network is perfect for biking and running.

Barracks Road Shopping Center is only minutes away, providing Whole Foods, Kroger, restaurants, and everyday services. Downtown Charlottesville is also close, making dinner outings and cultural events easy.

Students typically attend Murray Elementary, Henley Middle, and Western Albemarle High School. Western Albemarle is consistently one of the most sought after high schools in the region. Private school options nearby include St. Anne’s Belfield and The Covenant School.

Ednam Forest appeals to families who value Western Albemarle schools, space, and proximity to resort style amenities.

The vibe

Ednam Forest feels established, wooded, and “tucked in,” but it’s also tied into an exceptional lifestyle footprint because of the nearby Boar’s Head Resort setting. Source

Why families consider it

  • Noted as 154 homes
  • Noted lot sizes around 1.25–1.6 acres
  • Trails: noted as 8 miles of biking/running/walking trails
  • Boar’s Head Sports Club / Birdwood Golf: noted as optional
    Source

HOA

  • HOA noted as $600 annually (2026)
    Source

Schools

  • Murray Elementary → Henley Middle → Western Albemarle High
    Source

5) Farmington

Farmington is about legacy, tradition, and lifestyle. Families who choose Farmington often want acreage, privacy, and access to one of the area’s most established country clubs. Children grow up surrounded by mature landscaping and beautiful properties.

The Farmington Country Club offers golf, tennis, pickleball, swimming, dining, and youth programs. Summer swim team and junior sports clinics are popular with families. The club’s dining venues create a social hub for parents and kids alike.

Despite its secluded feel, Farmington is only minutes from UVA, Barracks Road, and downtown Charlottesville. Grocery stores, specialty shops, and family restaurants are easily accessible.

Students attend Ivy Elementary, Henley Middle, and Western Albemarle High School. Private schools such as St. Anne’s Belfield and Charlottesville Catholic School are also nearby.

Farmington works well for families seeking larger properties and a country club centered lifestyle close to town.

The vibe

Farmington is the Charlottesville-area “legacy living” with big properties, history, and a country-club-centered lifestyle near UVA. Source

What families love

  • Noted as 123 homes
  • Lots often noted as 1.5 to 6 acres
  • “Mature community” feel with long-term value appeal
    Source
  • A total of 28 golf holes. This includes the 18-hole Main Course (comprised of the original North and South nines designed by Fred Findlay in 1929) and a 10-hole short course (formerly the East nine, remodeled by Coore & Crenshaw in 2016)
  • Tennis, pickleball, swim team, gym and any other activity you can imagine
  • Numerous restaurants

Schools

  • Ivy Elementary → Henley Middle → Western Albemarle High
    Source

HOA & fees (important)

  • HOA noted as $990 annually
  • The setup/transfer fee noted as $5,000
    Source

(Also noted: you do not have to join the club to live here, although many do.) Source

6) Glenmore (The Club at Glenmore)

Glenmore is one of the region’s best known gated communities. Families who prioritize security and amenities are often drawn here immediately. The neighborhood spans rolling countryside with beautifully maintained streets and sidewalks.

The Club at Glenmore offers golf, tennis, pickleball, a pool, fitness facilities, and dining. Community events throughout the year create strong neighborhood bonds. Children often participate in youth sports, swim programs, and seasonal activities within the gates.

The drive to Pantops and downtown Charlottesville is manageable, giving access to grocery stores, restaurants, and medical facilities. Families appreciate the balance between privacy and convenience.

Students typically attend Stone Robinson Elementary, Burley Middle, and Monticello High School. Private school options remain accessible throughout Charlottesville.

Glenmore delivers structure, amenities, and an active lifestyle that many families love.

The vibe

Glenmore is one of the region’s best-known gated neighborhoods for families who want security, amenities, and an active community calendar. Source

What stands out for family life

  • Noted as 825 homesites on 1,300 acres
  • Noted as gated
  • Amenities include golf, fitness, tennis/pickleball, a pool, and clubhouse dining
  • Community events are emphasized (parades, seasonal events, socials)
    Source

HOA

  • HOA noted as $382 quarterly
    Source

Schools

  • Stone-Robinson Elementary → Burley Middle → Monticello High
    Source

7) Greencroft (Ivy)

Greencroft in Ivy offers a smaller, more exclusive neighborhood experience. Families here value Western Albemarle school zoning and proximity to Greencroft Club amenities. The setting is peaceful and refined.

Children benefit from access to swimming, tennis, and social events through the club. The views and open space provide a beautiful backdrop for family life. The neighborhood footprint is small, which fosters close connections among residents.

Ivy Elementary, Henley Middle, and Western Albemarle High School serve this area. Western Albemarle is consistently a major draw for relocating families. Private schools in the western corridor include St. Anne’s Belfield and The Covenant School.

Barracks Road and Crozet provide nearby grocery and dining options. Greencroft is ideal for families who want a smaller community anchored by strong schools.

The vibe

Greencroft is small, quiet, and premium, ideal for families who want Western Albemarle schools and a country-club anchor without a big subdivision footprint. Source

Quick highlights

  • Noted as 10 luxury homes
  • Views include a noted 17-acre Nature Conservancy pasture
  • Club amenities noted: tennis, swimming, social, fine dining
    Source

HOA

Schools

  • Murray Elementary → Henley Middle → Western Albemarle High
    Source

8) Key West

Key West stands out for families who want larger lots and fewer restrictions. There is no HOA, which appeals to many buyers. The neighborhood club is optional, giving flexibility.

The Key West Club features a Junior Olympic pool, kiddie pool, tennis courts, pickleball, and the Key West Killer Whales swim team. River access to the Rivanna adds kayaking and fishing opportunities for adventurous families.

Pantops shopping makes errands simple. Giant, restaurants, and coffee shops are minutes away. Downtown Charlottesville is also easily accessible.

Students attend Stony Point Elementary, Burley Middle, and Monticello High School. Albemarle County Public Schools offer strong academics and extracurriculars. Private school options are available throughout Charlottesville.

Key West is excellent for families who want land, flexibility, and optional community amenities.

The vibe

Key West is for families who want space and privacy, older homes, mature trees, and lots that feel like you can actually breathe in them. Source

The “family lifestyle” features

  • Noted as 99 homes in a 140-acre neighborhood
  • Lot sizes noted as 0.5 to 6 acres
  • Optional neighborhood club with
    • Junior Olympic-size pool + kiddie pool
    • Swim team (noted as the “Key West Killer Whales”)
    • Tennis + programs + pickleball
    • Rivanna River access/beach for launching kayaks
      Source

HOA

  • HOA noted as $0 (no HOA or setup/transfer fees)
    Source

Schools

  • Stony Point Elementary → Burley Middle → Monticello High
    Source

9) Old Trail (Crozet)

Old Trail in Crozet offers one of the most walkable family lifestyles in Albemarle County. Sidewalks, parks, and a village center create independence for older kids. Families often gather at the pool, playground, or golf course.

The ACAC fitness center within Old Trail is a major draw. Youth sports, camps, and classes are easy to access. The golf course and open green spaces give kids room to explore.

Downtown Crozet includes Harris Teeter, local restaurants, bakeries, and breweries. Crozet Park offers additional sports fields and trails.

Students attend Brownsville Elementary, Henley Middle, and Western Albemarle High School. These schools are consistently in high demand. Private school options are within commuting distance.

Old Trail is perfect for families who want connection, walkability, and a vibrant community setting

The vibe

Old Trail is a top pick for families who want a community where kids can grow up with independence, sidewalks, trails, parks, and a village center that keeps life connected. Source

What makes it work for families

  • Planned build-out noted as 2,600 single-family homes
  • Amenities noted include trails, pool, soccer field, golf, fire pit, bocce court, ACAC fitness
    Source

HOA

  • HOA noted as $207 quarterly (2025) plus a setup/transfer fee noted as $50
    Source

Schools

  • Brownsville Elementary → Henley Middle → Western Albemarle High
    Source

10) Western Ridge (Crozet)

Western Ridge is another Crozet favorite for families. The neighborhood has sidewalks, a pool, tennis courts, and a clubhouse that hosts events year round. The original homestead building adds character and charm.

Children ride bikes freely and gather at the playgrounds. The sense of community here is strong and welcoming. Bright Beginnings Preschool and a medical office at the entrance add everyday convenience.

Crozet grocery stores, restaurants, and coffee shops are only minutes away. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy proximity to hiking trails and mountain views.

Students attend Brownsville Elementary, Henley Middle, and Western Albemarle High School. Western Albemarle remains a top choice for families focused on academics and extracurricular depth. Private school options remain accessible in Charlottesville.

Western Ridge delivers a classic neighborhood environment with strong schools and daily convenience.

The vibe

Western Ridge is consistently popular with young families because it combines a true neighborhood feel (lots of kids) with amenities and top school zoning. Source

Family-friendly features

  • Noted as 358 homes
  • Amenities noted: pool, the original homestead now used as a clubhouse (great for parties & weddings), two tennis courts, and a small gym
    Source

“Real-life convenience” notes

HOA + schools

  • HOA noted as $360 semi-annually (2025)
  • Schools: Brownsville Elementary → Henley Middle → Western Albemarle High
    Source

Don’t Skip This: The “All-In Cost” Reminders (Taxes + Car Tax)

Many relocating families budget for mortgage + HOA and then are surprised by the local tax structure.

From my family school-zone guide page:

  • The real property tax rate noted as $0.894 per $100 of assessed value (2026)
  • Personal property tax (car tax) noted as $4.28 per $100 of vehicle value (2026)
    Source

My Closing Thoughts (and how I, as a top Abemarle County realtor help)

As a top Albemarle County realtor since 2003, I help families narrow these options based on commute, school preferences, lot size, HOA structure, and long-term value. Each of these neighborhoods offers something special. The key is matching your family’s priorities with the right environment so that everyday life feels exciting, connected, and easy.

The 10 Best Neighborhoods in Albemarle County for Families in 2026 Depend on What Your Family Needs Most:

  • more land vs. more amenities,
  • gated security vs. no HOA,
  • shortest UVA commute vs. Western Albemarle schools.

If you want, tell me your top 3 priorities (example: “4 bedrooms + walkable trails + under 20 minutes to UVA Health”), and I’ll suggest the best 3-4 neighborhoods to tour first so you don’t waste weekends crisscrossing the county.

Toby Beavers, one of the best Charlottesville real estate agents since 2003, may be reached by text or phone at 434-327-2999