15 Reasons To Move To Earlysville, VA
Why Earlysville, Virginia, Should Be Your Next Home
As someone who has proudly helped families find their dream homes in Earlysville since 2003, I’ve seen firsthand why so many people fall in love with this special northeast corner of Albemarle County. Earlysville circa 1737, is where timeless rural charm meets modern convenience. Whether you’re searching for Earlysville, VA homes for sale, exploring the diverse range of farms for sale in Earlysville, VA, or simply curious about the lifestyle offered by Earlysville, VA properties, or Charlottesville historic homes, this guide will give you a clear picture of why Earlysville, VA real estate stands out in Central Virginia. Here are 15 Reasons To Move To Earlysville VA:
1. Prime Location Just Minutes From Charlottesville
One of Earlysville’s greatest assets is its location. Only eight miles north of Charlottesville, it offers a true country lifestyle with city amenities close at hand. At one time there were numerous stores in the center of Earlysville (intersection of Reas Ford Road & Earlysville Road). Now all that are left is the Earlysville Exchange, a non-profit thrift shop and an auto repair shop. Commuting to the University of Virginia, the Charlottesville historic Downtown Mall, or top-rated restaurants is quick and easy. For my clients relocating from larger metros, this combination of pastoral living with easy access to culture is irresistible.
2. A Rich History That Still Shapes the Community
Earlysville’s story began in the late 1700s and took its name from John Early, a Methodist minister and educator. You can still feel that sense of history today, whether at the Earlysville General Store, which remains a local gathering spot, or in the colonial and antebellum homes sprinkled throughout the countryside. Many of the Earlysville VA properties feature original stonework, hand-hewn beams, and period architecture blended with modern comforts.
3. Outdoor Recreation and Natural Beauty
If you love the outdoors, Earlysville is paradise. The Ivy Creek Natural Area offers over 200 acres of trails and wildlife. The South Fork Rivanna Reservoir is perfect for kayaking and fishing. And with Shenandoah National Park just 30 minutes away, world-class hiking, Skyline Drive vistas, and fall foliage are practically in your backyard. When showing homes for sale in Earlysville VA, clients often tell me they’re amazed by how close these natural treasures are.
4. Exceptional Schools in Albemarle County
Families are drawn to Earlysville for its outstanding Albemarle County Public Schools. Broadus Wood Elementary is known for its small class sizes and innovative programs, Lakeside Middle which is located in Earlysville and Joseph T. Henley Middle are the two middle schools, while Albemarle High School offers AP and International Baccalaureate courses. Many of my buyers cite the strong school system as a deciding factor when choosing among Earlysville VA homes for sale.
5. A Diverse Real Estate Market
As a local Albemarle VA realtor, I’ve sold everything from grand colonial estates on rolling acreage to charming farmhouses and low-maintenance single-family homes. Earlysville VA real estate truly offers something for everyone, luxury estates, historic farmhouses, new custom builds, and affordable neighborhoods like Earlysville Forest for first-time buyers and young families.
6. Luxury Communities With Space and Privacy
For those seeking gated or planned neighborhoods, Earlysville has prestigious neighborhoods like Walnut Hill (Gated), Indian Springs, and Frays Grant. These areas feature homes on large lots, mature trees, and community amenities, all just a short drive to Charlottesville. Many of these Earlysville VA properties also come with equestrian facilities or conservation easements that protect the area’s beauty.
7. A Thriving Wine and Culinary Scene
Earlysville is part of Virginia’s growing wine country. Chisholm Vineyards and Hark Vineyards are right here in Earlysville, offering spectacular Blue Ridge views, estate-grown wines, and regular live music events. Glass House Winery adds a fun tropical twist with its wine and craft beer offerings. This vibrant food-and-wine culture gives residents endless opportunities to socialize close to home.
8. A Premier Equestrian Destination
As an equestrian-friendly area, Earlysville attracts horse lovers from across the region. Many homes for sale in Earlysville VA include barns, paddocks, or even professional-grade equestrian facilities. Local hunt clubs like Farmington and Keswick Hunt Club keep Virginia’s sporting traditions alive. The blessing of the hounds takes place once a year at the circa 1747 Buck Mountain Episcoplal Church. Meanwhile the nearby Foxfield Races bring the community together twice a year. Watch a video of Foxfield here.
9. Strong Community Bonds
Despite its growth, Earlysville has kept its small-town feel. The Earlysville General Store, local churches, and the Earlysville Volunteer Fire Company all serve as community anchors. Seasonal festivals, concerts, and fundraisers create real neighborly connections, a quality my clients value highly when moving here.
10. Excellent Career Access
Earlysville offers peaceful living with access to major employers like the University of Virginia, its medical center, tech companies, and startups. Richmond and Washington, D.C. are within a two-hour drive, making Earlysville ideal for professionals who need periodic access to business centers but want to live in a quieter setting.
11. An Educated, Engaged Population
Earlysville attracts residents who value learning, civic engagement, and the arts. With UVA nearby, it’s easy to attend lectures, concerts, or continuing education programs. This intellectual energy gives the community a dynamic, forward-thinking atmosphere.
12. Convenient Travel Options
The Charlottesville-Albemarle Airport is only 15 minutes away, and Amtrak service from Charlottesville connects you to major East Coast cities. Interstate 64 and Route 29 make road travel simple while preserving the rural feel.
13. Attractive Cost of Living and Investment Potential
Compared to Northern Virginia or other East Coast markets, Earlysville VA real estate offers outstanding value. Property taxes are reasonable (The 2025 Earlyesville VA Real Estate Tax Rate is $0.894 per hundred of assessed value), and homes typically offer more acreage, higher quality construction, and better privacy for the price. Over the past two decades, I’ve watched property values steadily appreciate, making Earlysville VA homes for sale a smart investment.
14. Unmatched Scenic Beauty
With its rolling hills, Blue Ridge Mountain backdrops, and four distinct seasons, Earlysville is breathtaking year-round. Chris Greene Lake Park is a popular park for Earlysville residents and offers 239-acre park includes 53 water acres and 2 swimming beach acres. Several recreational amenities are provided, including a 1-acre fenced in dog park with water access for dogs to swim, 2 reservable picnic shelters, a playground, and 3 miles of trails. The Blue Ridge Disc Golf Club constructed a new 18-basket course at Chris Greene Lake Park. This was built to contend with the most difficult courses in the area (never seen disc golf played? Watch this YT video. Many of my clients tell me that waking up to these views is life-changing. From spring wildflowers to autumn foliage, this area offers a postcard-perfect setting every day.
15. Safety and Family-Friendly Living
Earlysville’s low crime rate, clean air and water, and excellent emergency services make it an ideal place to raise a family or retire. Quiet country roads are perfect for walks and bike rides, and the community places a strong emphasis on youth programs and mentorship.
My Conclusion: On 15 Reasons To Move To Earlysville VA – Perfect Earlysville VA Home Awaits
As someone who’s been helping buyers and sellers navigate Earlysville VA real estate since 2003, I can honestly say this area offers one of the best combinations of natural beauty, history, community spirit, and investment potential anywhere in Virginia. Whether you’re searching for a luxury estate, a family-friendly neighborhood, or an equestrian property, there’s no shortage of Earlysville VA homes for sale that fit your dream lifestyle.
If you’re ready to explore the possibilities after reading 15 Reasons To Move To Earlysville VA, I’d be delighted to guide you through the current homes for sale in Earlysville VA and help you discover the property that’s perfect for you.
For more nearby homes see also: 20 Reasons to Love Living in Ivy, VA and 20 Reasons to Move to Free Union, Va
Toby Beavers, an Albemarle VA realtor since 2003, is reachable by text or phone at 434-327-2999
