17 Most Popular Charlottesville Neighborhoods

Based on 2025-2026 real estate search trends and local popularity, 17 Charlottesville popular neighborhoods consistently rank as the most sought-after for residents, young families, and investors

This comprehensive guide explores the most sought-after, 17 most popular neighborhoods in the City of Charlottesville and the surrounding Albemarle County, Virginia.

Whether you are looking for the historic pulse of the city or the rolling vistas of the Blue Ridge, these popular neighborhoods represent the pinnacle of Charlottesville living.

See 100 Reasons To Move To Charlottesville

Charlottesville’s Urban Heart & The Historic City’s Favorite Neighborhoods

North Downtown: The Gold Standard

If there is a “crown jewel” of Charlottesville real estate, North Downtown is it.

The North Downtown neighborhood is the epitome of luxury and convenience.

I like the North Downtown townhomes.

Residents enjoy quiet, tree-lined streets featuring meticulously preserved Colonial and Federal-style estates, all while being a five-minute walk from the historic Charlottesville Downtown Mall.

• The Draw: Proximity to world-class dining, the Jefferson Theater, and the Downtown Public Library.
• Vibe: Sophisticated, historic, and undeniably prestigious.

Belmont: The Culinary Hub

Once a working-class enclave, Belmont Charlottesville homes for sale has transformed into Charlottesville’s “coolest” neighborhood.

Centered around Belmont Park and the thriving restaurant scene at the intersection of Hinton Avenue, it offers a walkable, urban lifestyle that appeals to foodies and young professionals.

• The Draw: Local dining favorites like Mas Tapas and The Local (make reservations).
• Vibe: Vibrant, artistic, and community-focused.

Locust Grove: History Meets Recreation

As one of the city’s oldest residential areas, Locust Grove offers a diverse mix of 19th-century architecture and mid-century cottages.

It is bordered by the Rivanna River and the scenic Northeast Park, making it a haven for those who want historic charm without sacrificing outdoor access.

• The Draw: Direct access to the Rivanna River Trail and easy commutes to Sentara Martha Jefferson Hospital.
• Vibe: Established, leafy, and peaceful.

Fry’s Spring: The Academic Connection

Located in the southwest corner of the city, Fry’s Spring is the primary choice for those connected to the University of Virginia (UVA).

The neighborhood is famous for its “garden suburb” feel, characterized by diverse architectural styles ranging from 1920s bungalows to modern renovations.

• The Draw: Proximity to the UVA Medical Center and the Scott Stadium.
• Vibe: Energetic, intellectual, and neighborly.
• Historic Fry’s Spring Swim Club
• Great area for investors

Charlottesville Country Club Living: Golf and Amenities

Farmington

Farmington is more than a neighborhood; it is an institution.

Built around the Farmington Country Club (originally designed in part by Thomas Jefferson), this area features sprawling estates and some of the most valuable real estate in Virginia.

• The Draw: Exceptional golf, tennis, and dining facilities within the club.
• Vibe: Stately, traditional, and exclusive.
• The most exclusive club in Charlottesville

Glenmore Country Club AKA The Club at Glenmore

Located just east of the city in Keswick, Glenmore is a gated community that offers a comprehensive resort lifestyle.

With a championship golf course, an equestrian rescue center, and miles of private trails, it caters to active families and retirees alike.

• The Draw: Top-tier security, a massive fitness center, numerous tennis courts, Olympic pool and a highly active social calendar.
• Vibe: Polished, active, and manicured.
• The best family-oriented neighborhood in Charlottesville
• Gated

Greencroft Club

Tucked away in Ivy, Greencroft is centered around the historic Greencroft Club (not nearly as historic as Farmington is).

It offers a more understated, intimate country club experience compared to Farmington, with homes that sit on generous, open and wooded lots.

• The Draw: A sense of privacy and a “old-school” Virginia social atmosphere.
• Vibe: Quiet, refined, and woodsy.
• Sports: Tennis, pickle ball, swimming, and dining.
  

  Keswick Estate (Also called Keswick Estates)

  Adjacent to the world-renowned Keswick Hall, the luxury Keswick Estate neighborhood defines rural luxury.

  Keswick Estate homeowners here enjoy access to the Full Cry golf course and a five-star spa environment, set against the backdrop of the Southwest Mountains.

  • The Draw: Ultra-luxury custom builds and world-class resort amenities.
  • Vibe: Opulent, serene, quiet, and scenic.
  • Gated

Albemarle County Luxury Estates and Pastoral Living

See 25 Reasons To Move To Albemarle County VA – Toby Beavers Realtor Guide

Blandemar Farm Estates & Bundoran Farm

For those who want the “Farm Life” without the work of a tractor, these communities are revolutionary.

• Blandemar Farm Estates offers massive lakefront estates with a focus on privacy.
• Bundoran Farm is a “preservation community” where homes are tucked into a working landscape of orchards and pastures managed by a professional association.
• The Draw: Dramatic mountain views and protected agricultural land.
• Vibe: Expansive, rustic-luxury, and environmentally conscious.

Charlottesville Family Neighborhoods and Planned Communities

Forest Lakes (North & South)

Forest Lakes remains one of the most popular choices for families moving to the area.

Located along the Route 29 corridor, it offers an unparalleled amenity package, including tennis, multiple pools, soccer fields, and extensive paved trails around scenic lakes.

• The Draw: Top-rated schools and a “self-contained” community feel.
• Vibe: Busy, family-friendly, and convenient.
• Forest Lakes offers townhomes.

Old Trail (Crozet)

Old Trail homes have redefined the small, Western Albemarle town of Crozet.

It is a “New Urbanist” community where you can walk from your single-family home or townhome to a coffee shop, a golf course, or the excellent, local Brownsville Elementary, Henley Middle, and Western Albemarle High schools (all 3 next to each other).

• The Draw: Breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and a walkable “Old Trail Village Center“.
• Vibe: Modern, scenic, and socially connected.
• Old Trail offers townhomes too.
• 18-hole golf course

Key West & Dunlora

Both located just north of the city, these neighborhoods offer a classic suburban feel.

Key West is known for its larger, established lots and river access, while Dunlora offers a more modern clubhouse-and-pool environment.

• The Draw: Easy access to downtown and the Charlottesville-Albemarle Airport via Route 29 or East Rio Road.
• Vibe: Welcoming, stable, and suburban.
• Dunlora offers townhomes in their Shepherd’s Ridge neighborhood.

Fontana

Located on the gentle slopes of Pantops Mountain, Fontana offers some of the best sunset views in the county.

It is a tight-knit community with a small clubhouse, tennis court, pool, and trails that appeal to those who want a newer home with a view.

• The Draw: Elevation and proximity to the Sentara Martha Jefferson Hospital and State Farm offices.
• Vibe: Friendly, elevated, and bright.
• Located on the eastside of Charlottesville near Keswick

Ivy/Crozet Neighborhoods: Bellair, Ivy Fields, & Western Ridge

The area west of Charlottesville (Ivy/Crozet) is perennially popular due to its excellent school districts, large family neighborhoods, and beauty. See 27 Reasons To Love Living in Crozet VA and 20 reasons to love living in Ivy VA

• Bellair: A classic Ivy neighborhood with mid-century charm and large, private lots.
• Ivy Fields: Offers a smaller, more intimate collection of custom homes.
• Western Ridge: The most family-friendly Crozet neighborhood known for its community pool, gym, tennis courts, and its location near the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Summary Table: Which 17 Popular Charlottesville Neighborhoods Fits You?

Category	Recommended Neighborhoods	Best For…
Walkable Urban	North Downtown, Belmont	Foodies, Culture Seekers
Family/Amenities	Forest Lakes, Old Trail, Dunlora	Schools, Pools, Playgrounds
Golf/Country Club	Farmington, Glenmore, Keswick	Luxury, Sports, Socializing
Quiet/Historic	Locust Grove, Fry’s Spring, Bellair	Charm, Privacy, History
Estate/Pastoral	Bundoran Farm, Blandemar Farm	Views, Land, Seclusion

Charlottesville’s popularity stems from this diversity.

Whether you want a 200-year-old brick manor in North Downtown or a sustainable farmhouse at Bundoran, there is a corner of this region that feels like home.

17 Most Popular Charlottesville Neighborhoods: An In-Depth Guide

By Toby Beavers, one of the best Albemarle County real estate agents since 2003

Having served as a Charlottesville realtor for more than two decades, I’ve watched this remarkable city evolve while maintaining the special character that makes it one of Virginia’s most sought-after places to call home.

Whether you’re relocating here for UVA, looking for your forever home, or seeking investment opportunities, understanding our neighborhoods is essential.

Let me take you on an insider’s tour of the 17 most popular Charlottesville neighborhoods, each with its own personality, advantages, and unique appeal.

1. North Downtown

Let me be direct: North Downtown is irreplaceable.

This is Charlottesville at its most historic, most walkable, and most culturally rich.

When people dream of moving to a city where they can walk everywhere, this is what they’re imagining.

The Architecture and Historic Character

Listed on both the National Register of Historic Places and the Virginia Landmarks Register, North Downtown is protected architectural design control district.

The North Downtown centers around historic Court Square, where buildings date back to the early 1800s.

You’ll find meticulously restored Colonial Revival estates, elegant brick Federal homes with original details, grand Queen Anne Victorians with wrap-around porches, and thoughtful architect-designed renovations that respect historic character while delivering modern comfort.

Many North Downtown Charlottesville homes sit on elevated lots offering valley views, featuring deep porches with hanging plants, original iron fencing, mature magnolia trees, century-old oaks, and established boxwoods.

Inside, you’ll discover 10 to 12-foot ceilings, original heart pine floors, decorative crown moldings, marble mantles, and updated kitchens with high-end appliances seamlessly integrated into historic spaces.

The Lifestyle: Urban Convenience Meets Cultural Richness

The historic Charlottesville Downtown Mall is your front yard.

Within a five-minute walk, residents access award-winning restaurants (C&O, TenSushi, Zocalo), wine bars, craft cocktail lounges, rooftop dining at Up On The Roof and Dairy Market, specialty coffee shops (Shenandoah Joe, Grit Coffee), independent bookstores (New Dominion Bookshop and Blue Whale), the Jefferson-Madison Regional Library housed in a historic building with marble columns, yoga studios, art galleries including the McGuffey Art Center in a converted  public school, and live music venues like The Jefferson Theater, The Paramount Theater of Charlottesville, and The Southern Cafe & Music Hall.

Cultural events define the rhythm of life here.

First Fridays Art Walks, the City Market Farmers Market, Virginia Festival of the Book, the Tom Tom Festival, the Virginia Film Festival, Friday After Five summer concerts at the Ting Pavilion, Live Arts, the Charlottesville Jazz Festival, holiday parades, and outdoor movies on the Charlottesville Mall are all part of the experience.

Many residents walk to work at law firms, UVA offices, or downtown businesses.

Others bike to the university in under 10 minutes.

For Families and Children

North Downtown offers children something increasingly rare: urban independence.

Sidewalks connect everything.

Kids walk to Sunrise Elementary (B-rated by Niche with a 15:1 student-teacher ratio), Charlottesville Middle School (B- rated, 13:1 ratio), and Charlottesville High School (A-rated, with state championship debate and golf teams).

They grow up attending free concerts, walking to the library, exploring art galleries, and experiencing civic life in ways most suburban neighborhoods simply can’t provide.

The North Downtown neighborhood has a strong identity, and residents lean preservationist, creating stability and community pride.

Investment Perspective

In my experience, well-maintained North Downtown homes hold value exceptionally well.

Inventory is limited.

See recently sold homes in North Downtown here.

You cannot create more walkable, historic, downtown property.

Price per square foot consistently ranks among the highest in Central Virginia.

Properties range from $400,000 for smaller historic cottages to well over $1.5 million for grand Victorian estates.

The neighborhood also includes six condominium buildings (including The Lewis & Clark Square Condos and Charlottesville Towers) offering urban living options from $250,000 to $600,000+.

2. Belmont

Over the past 20 years, I’ve watched Belmont transform from Charlottesville’s most affordable neighborhood into one of its most energetic culinary and cultural destinations.

This is the Brooklyn of Charlottesville: artsy, eclectic, authentic, and increasingly desirable.

The History and Architecture

Belmont combines two historic 1890s neighborhoods, Belmont and Carlton, developed on a 50-foot lot grid that became the template for much of Charlottesville’s later development.

The neighborhood grew significantly after the Old Belmont Bridge was built in 1905, connecting it directly to downtown.

Originally a working-class community, Belmont real estate features classic 1920s and 1930s cottages, renovated Craftsman bungalows, Victorian homes, and thoughtfully designed contemporary infill properties.

The Belle Mont Mansion (circa 1837) still stands at 759 Belmont Avenue, now containing apartments.

Many Belmont Charlottesville historic homes on streets like Graves Street and near Belmont Park have been lovingly restored, with original hardwood floors, built-in cabinetry, front porches, and updated kitchens and baths.

Belmont lots are manageable (typically 50 x 120 feet), and front porches remain integral to the neighborhood lifestyle.

The Food Scene: A Culinary Destination

Belmont has become a food lover’s dream.

Award-winning restaurants line the streets of ‘Downtown Belmont’ along Belmont Avenue and Carlton Road.

The Local has served farm-to-table Virginia cuisine since 2008, with an upstairs deck perfect for gatherings.

Mockingbird, from four-time James Beard semifinalist Chef Melissa Close-Hart, offers refined Southern food in a space with restored 1920s murals and a Miami-inspired outdoor Birdcage patio.

Tavola serves traditional Neapolitan pizza in an intimate setting.

Mas Tapas (formerly Mas Tapas y Vino) remains a Belmont institution.

The Jervey offers fine dining and exceptional steaks in an opulent setting.

La Taza Coffee House provides morning coffee and breakfast sandwiches with homemade jam.

Belle Coffee beckons for leisurely people-watching. Oaxacan cuisine, craft breweries, wine bars, and Brown’s fried chicken (famous for their ‘free piece with fill-up’) round out the options.

It’s common for residents to walk to dinner several nights a week.

The social atmosphere is relaxed, creative, and authentic.

Community Life and Amenities

Belmont Park is the neighborhood’s centerpiece, featuring a playground with a sprinkler park for summer, basketball courts, open green fields for soccer and pickup games, and space for neighborhood gatherings and events.

The Bridge Progressive Arts Initiative (permanently closed) fostered the neighborhood’s creative spirit for years.

The compact layout encourages walking and biking everywhere.

Families know each other.

The Belmont-Carlton Neighborhood Association keeps residents connected and engaged.

Just across the Belmont Bridge, you’re at the Downtown Mall in minutes.

Interstate 64 and Route 20 access make commuting easy.

The CSX railroad depot borders the north side, and Moore’s Creek defines the southern boundary.

Real Estate Market

Belmont home values have appreciated steadily over the past two decades, reflecting proximity to downtown, the transformation of the restaurant scene, and limited housing supply.

Average home values now exceed $400,000, with renovated historic homes reaching $500,000-$700,000+.

The Belmont neighborhood continues to attract buyers who want energy, diversity, walkability, and authenticity.

Belmont is one of Charlottesville’s most distinctive neighborhoods.

View recently sold Belmont homes here.

3. Locust Grove

Locust Grove homes for sale offer one of the best combinations of outdoor recreation, community feel, and city convenience you’ll find anywhere in Charlottesville.

Bordered by the Rivanna River and sitting just northeast of downtown between Route 250 and the John Warner Parkway, the Locust Grove Charlottesville neighborhood has earned a loyal following among families and outdoor enthusiasts.

Locust Grove provides immediate access to the 20-mile Rivanna Trail system, perfect for trail running, mountain biking, kayaking, and nature walks.

Northeast Park offers athletic fields, playgrounds, picnic areas, and open space for recreation.

Sentara Martha Jefferson Hospital is minutes away, and both downtown Charlottesville and Pantops are easily accessible.

The housing stock ranges from charming 19th-century properties and mid-century ranches to renovated cottages and newer construction.

Mature landscaping, established trees, and well-maintained streets define the area.

Many homes feature hardwood floors, brick exteriors, front porches, and comfortable layouts updated for modern living.

Children attend Sunrise Elementary, Charlottesville Middle, and Charlottesville High School.

The Locust Grove neighborhood has strong community ties, with families who know their neighbors and kids who still play outside.

Locust Grove home prices typically range from $350,000 to $600,000+, offering solid value for the location and lifestyle.

View recently sold Locust Grove real estate here.

4. Fry’s Spring

Fry’s Spring is intimately connected to the University of Virginia.

Many faculty members, UVA Health physicians, graduate students, and administrative staff choose the Fry’s Spring neighborhood for its walkability to campus, traditional charm, and strong sense of community.

Located just south of UVA, Fry’s Spring features early 20th-century bungalows, Cape Cods, brick colonial homes, and renovated cottages on tree-lined streets.

The architecture reflects Arts and Crafts and Colonial Revival styles, with many homes retaining original character: hardwood floors, built-in bookcases, wood-burning fireplaces, and covered front porches.

Modern updates to kitchens, bathrooms, and mechanical systems make these homes comfortable for contemporary living while preserving their historic appeal.

Adults appreciate the short commute to UVA Medical Center, Scott Stadium for football games, John Paul Jones Arena for basketball and concerts, and university lectures and events.

The University’s cultural offerings, from visiting speakers to art exhibitions, become part of daily life.

The Fry’s Spring Neighborhood Association organizes seasonal gatherings, the historic Fry’s Spring Beach Club provides summer recreation, and nearby parks offer green space.

Children benefit from being part of an academically-oriented community.

Families can walk to Trailblazer Elementary, Charlottesville Middle, and Charlottesville High schools.

The stable, engaged neighborhood culture supports long-term property values.

Homes typically range from $400,000 to $800,000+, with larger renovated properties exceeding $1 million.

Fry’s Spring combines intellectual vitality with traditional neighborhood charm.

View recently sold Fry’s Spring homes here.

5. Farmington

Farmington represents one of the most prestigious addresses in Virginia.

Centered around Farmington Country Club and its Jefferson-designed clubhouse (the octagonal east wing sketched by Thomas Jefferson himself in 1803), this community embodies gracious living, architectural distinction, and timeless elegance.

The Real Estate: Estate Living at Its Finest

Farmington VA real estate sits on expansive lots, many ranging from 2 to 10+ acres, with professionally maintained landscaping, mature boxwoods, centuries-old trees, and often mountain or golf course views.

Architectural styles include classic Georgian colonials, Colonial Revival estates, contemporary designs by noted luxury Charlottesville home builders like Baird Snyder, and custom homes that blend traditional Virginia elegance with modern amenities.

Farmington homes feature high-end finishes: gourmet kitchens with commercial-grade appliances, spa-like master suites, home theaters, wine cellars, elevators, whole-house generators, multiple fireplaces, coffered ceilings, and screened porches overlooking pristine landscapes.

Golf cart garages are common for those living on or near the course.

Recent sales range from $1.2 million to well over $10 million, with most properties reaching $5 million+.

The Club: Amenities and Social Life

Farmington Country Club offers a championship 18-hole main golf course plus a 10-hole East course with state-of-the-art practice facilities.

The club hosts the prestigious Kenridge Invitational, a 54-hole tournament with a distinguished history dating to 1932.

Tennis and pickleball enthusiasts enjoy multiple courts, both indoor and outdoor paddle tennis courts, and professional instruction.

The comprehensive fitness center provides personal training, group fitness classes, weights, cardio equipment, yoga/pilates, boot camps, massage therapy, and water aerobics.

Multiple pools serve families and lap swimmers.

Casual and formal dining facilities showcase seasonal Virginia ingredients.

The historic clubhouse and main lawn, with unsurpassable Blue Ridge Mountain views, host the annual Fourth of July celebration featuring one of Virginia’s biggest fireworks displays.

Event spaces range from a 260-person ballroom to intimate meeting rooms.

Social activities include book clubs, card games, dancing, Mahjong, wine tastings, and volunteer work.

The club fosters professional and social networking in an environment of Southern hospitality and tradition.

For children, Farmington homes offer swim teams, junior golf instruction, tennis clinics, and youth events.

Large yards provide space for play at home.

Farmington is ideal for buyers seeking legacy property, exclusivity, comprehensive amenities, and long-term stability.

This is generational wealth territory, where families build lasting connections and create traditions.

Farmington members are allowed to have guests stay at the club.

View recently sold Farmington VA real estate here.

Farmington homes rarely come to market, and when they do, they attract serious, qualified buyers immediately.

6. Glenmore

The Club at Glenmore (previously the Glenmore Country Club), located in scenic Keswick, Virginia just 15 minutes east of Charlottesville, offers gated resort-style living with comprehensive amenities and a strong sense of security and community.

The 24-hour gated entrance provides peace of mind.

Inside, residents find championship golf, footgolf, tennis and pickleball courts, a modern fitness center with personal training and group classes, clubhouse dining with multiple venues, swimming pools, and walking trails connecting neighborhoods.

The country club environment feels polished, organized, and meticulously maintained.

Glenmore Charlottesville homes range from luxury golf course estates and townhomes starting around $400,000 to custom estate homes exceeding $5 million.

Architectural styles vary from traditional Virginia estates to contemporary designs, many with golf course, mountain, or pond views.

Children benefit from swim teams, junior tennis programs, riding lessons, playground areas, and safe biking throughout the gated community.

Glenmore club community in Keswick is served by Albemarle County Public Schools, specifically zoned for Stone-Robinson Elementary, Burley Middle, and Monticello High schools.

Glenmore appeals to families seeking a comprehensive lifestyle community, retirees wanting resort amenities with security, and anyone drawn to the combination of country club living with proximity to Charlottesville.

The active social calendar creates vibrant community connections.

Glenmore offers smaller cottages but there are very few and sell quickly. View recently sold Glenmore Cottages here.

See Fabulous Charlottesville Country Club Real Estate

View recently sold Glenmore Charlottesville homes here.

7. Greencroft, Ivy

Centered around the private Greencroft Club in Ivy, Greencroft offers understated elegance and traditional country club living in Western Albemarle County.

This is old-money Virginia: quiet, refined, and deeply committed to preservation.

Greencroft homes sit on wooded lots ranging from 1 to 5+ acres, creating privacy and a sense of retreat.

Greencroft homes feature traditional Virginia architecture: brick colonials, Georgian estates, and custom homes that respect the natural landscape.

Mature hardwoods, dogwoods, and mountain laurel provide seasonal beauty.

Many Greencroft homes have been in families for generations.

The Greencroft Club provides tennis courts, social gatherings, and a sense of community without ostentation.

Adults appreciate the quiet setting, proximity to Western Albemarle High School (one of Virginia’s top-rated public schools), and access to Crozet’s growing town center.

Children benefit from excellent schools: Brownsville Elementary, Henley Middle, and Western Albemarle High schools all receive strong ratings.

Large properties provide space to explore outdoors.

Greencroft is calm, stable, and consistently desirable.

Greencroft omes typically start around $600,000 and can exceed $1.5 million for larger estates.

See recently sold Greencroft Charlottesville homes.

This Greencroft Charlottesville neighborhood attracts buyers who value privacy, tradition, and quality over flashiness.

Note: The Greencroft neighborhood is quite small and not gated.

View recently sold Greencroft Charlottesville homes here.

8. Keswick Estate

Adjacent to the five-star Keswick Hall resort, Keswick Estate combines rural Virginia beauty with resort amenities.

This is gentleman farming meets luxury hospitality, a rare combination that appeals to those wanting both land and services.

Homes in Keswick Estate range from elegant estates on 5-20+ acres to custom homes on smaller parcels with golf course or mountain views.

The landscape is quintessential Virginia: rolling hills, hardwood forests, stone walls, pastures, and breathtaking Southwest Mountain views.

Many properties include guest houses, pools, tennis courts, and equestrian facilities.

Residents have access to Keswick Hall amenities including the spa, fine dining at Marigold Restaurant, Full Cry, the championship golf course designed by Pete and Alice Dye, and impeccable service.

The setting is serene and luxurious, perfect for those who want privacy with the option of resort-level dining, fitness, and entertainment just minutes away.

Children benefit from large properties, outdoor recreation, safe country roads for biking, and a peaceful environment.

Albemarle County schools serve the area.

The gated Keswick Estate homes typically range from $1.5 million to over $12 million, representing some of the most prestigious rural real estate in Virginia.

See recently sold Keswick Estate homes here.

9. Blandemar Farm Estates

Blandemar Farm offers lakefront estates and sweeping mountain views in a preservation community committed to architectural quality and environmental stewardship.

Located south of Charlottesville in North Garden, Blandemar Farm Estates attracts those seeking privacy, natural beauty, and thoughtfully designed homes.

Properties range from 2 to 20+ acres, many with lakefront access to the community lake perfect for fishing, kayaking, and wildlife watching.

Architectural guidelines ensure quality construction and designs that complement the landscape.

Custom Blandemar Farm Estates homes blend traditional Virginia estates with contemporary elements, featuring stone and timber, expansive windows capturing views, gourmet kitchens, luxurious master suites, and outdoor living spaces.

Adults enjoy privacy, scenic walking trails, fishing, and expansive entertaining spaces, both indoor and outdoor.

Children have room to roam, bow hunt, explore woods, fish the lake, and experience country living safely within the community structure.

The preservation easements protect the character permanently, ensuring long-term value.

Homes in Blandemar Farm typically start around $800,000 and can exceed $4 million for premier lakefront estates.

The Blandemar Farm Estates neighborhood appeals to those who value conservation, quality architecture, and the rare combination of privacy with community structure.

See recently sold homes in Blandemar Farm Estates here.

10. Bundoran Farm

Bundoran Farm is a nationally recognized conservation community with hundreds of acres permanently protected through conservation easements.

Located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in North Garden, Bundoran represents the gold standard for preservation-minded development.

The Bundoran Farm neighborhood features extensive hiking trails, orchards, community gardens, and panoramic Blue Ridge views from nearly every home site.

Bundoran Farm homes for sale range from 2 to 50+ acres, with custom homes designed to minimize environmental impact while maximizing views and livability.

Architecture ranges from traditional farmhouses to contemporary mountain homes, all required to meet strict design standards.

Adults appreciate the combination of rural living with community infrastructure: paved roads, underground utilities, and professionally maintained common areas.

The trail system connects properties and provides miles of hiking through protected forests and meadows.

Children grow up surrounded by farmland, wildlife, and open space, fostering outdoor independence and environmental awareness.

Western Albemarle schools serve the Bundoran Farm neighborhood are Red Hill Elementary, Walton Middle, and Monticello High schools.

Bundoran Farm homes typically range from $700,000 to over $5 million depending on acreage and home size.

Bundoran Farm attracts environmentally conscious buyers who want to live lightly on the land while enjoying modern amenities and spectacular mountain scenery.

North Garden is a tiny dot in Albemarle County and anchored by the Crossroads Corner Shops.

Pippin Hill Farms & Winery, Wisdom Oak Winery, Loving Cup Vineyards, and Albemarle Ciderworks are a major draw.

View recently sold Bundoran Farm homes here.

See 15 Reasons To Move To North Garden VA

11. Forest Lakes

Forest Lakes remains one of the most amenity-rich family communities in Albemarle County.

Located on Route 29 North near Hollymead Town Center, Forest Lakes has been a popular choice for families since its development began in the 1980s.

Forest Lakes homes offers extensive amenities: multiple swimming pools with swim teams and aquatics programs, tennis courts with leagues and lessons, well-equipped playgrounds throughout, community lakes stocked for fishing, paved walking and biking trails connecting neighborhoods, basketball courts, open green spaces and athletic fields, a fitness center, clubhouse facilities for events, and organized social activities year-round including summer concerts, holiday celebrations, and family movie nights.

Forest Lakes Housing options include single-family homes ranging from $350,000 to $700,000+, Forest Lakes townhomes starting around $250,000, and a variety of floor plans from 1,500 to 4,000+ square feet.

Many Forest Lakes homes have been updated with modern kitchens, finished basements, and outdoor living spaces.

The tree-lined streets, sidewalks throughout, and neighborhood parks create a family-friendly environment.

Children attend Hollymead Elementary, Burley Middle, and Albemarle High schools, all well-regarded.

The proximity to Hollymead Town Center provides shopping, restaurants, a Harris Teeter, and Food Lion within walking or biking distance.

Route 29 access makes commuting convenient.

Forest Lakes consistently attracts young families, UVA employees, and anyone seeking a traditional neighborhood with comprehensive amenities.

2026 HOA Forest Lakes Fees are $111 a month while Forest Lakes South HOA Fees are $348 a quarter and cover extensive services and facilities, making this community excellent value for active families.

View recently sold Forest Lakes homes here. View recently sold Forest Lakes townhomes here.

12. Old Trail, Crozet

Old Trail Village in the western Albemarle town of Crozet represents new urbanism at its best: walkable village living with mountain views, modern planning, and small-town charm.

This master-planned community has transformed Crozet’s eastern entrance since development began in the early 2000s.

Crozet features restaurants including Fardowner, Wild Wolf Brewing Company, and local favorites; Blue Ridge Coffee & Wine provides morning lattes and evening tastings; fitness studios, yoga, and wellness services; retail shops and services; pocket parks and gathering spaces; and Old Trail Golf Club, an 18-hole championship course.

Sidewalks connect Old Trail’s various neighborhoods (estate homes, townhomes, rentals), making it safe and convenient to walk to dinner, coffee, or errands.

Old Trail homes ranges from townhomes starting around $350,000 to single-family homes from $450,000 to over $1 million for custom mountain-view properties.

Old Trail architectural styles reflect traditional Virginia with modern functionality: craftsman details, front porches, varied rooflines, and quality construction.

Old Trail neighborhood amenities include an Olympic pool, tennis, golf, playgrounds, walking trails, open green spaces, and organized events.

Children attend top-rated Western Albemarle schools: Brownsville Elementary, Henley Middle, and Western Albemarle High schools.

Parents wanting nearby private schools should consider: The Field School of Charlottesville and Miller School of Albemarle.

The combination of walkability, mountain proximity, community amenities, and excellent schools makes Old Trail homes one of Charlottesville’s most sought-after family neighborhoods.

The Old Trail Village center fosters social connections.

You’ll see neighbors at restaurants, farmers markets, and community events.

View recently sold Old Trail homes here. View recently sold Old Trail Crozet townhomes here.

13. Key West

Key West offers larger lots and a more rural feel while maintaining convenient access to Charlottesville.

There are no HOA Fees in Key West.

Located near the Rivanna Reservoir in the Proffit Road area, Key West Charlottesville homes for sale attract those seeking more land, privacy, and proximity to water recreation.

Properties typically sit on 1-5 acre lots with mature trees, privacy, and peaceful settings.

The Rivanna Reservoir provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and water activities.

Homeowners in Key West have the option of joining the Key West Swim and Tennis Club.

Scenic drives through the countryside are part of daily life.

Key West architecture range from traditional Virginia colonials to contemporary designs, with prices typically from $490,000 to $1,000,000+.

Adults appreciate the balance of privacy and accessibility and the active HOA.

The historic Downtown Charlottesville Mall is just 15 minutes away, yet the setting feels removed from urban activity.

Children enjoy spacious yards, wooded privacy, and quiet streets safe for biking and outdoor play.

Albemarle County schools serve the area are Stony Point Elementary, Burley Middle, and Monticello High schools.

Key West offers excellent value for buyers wanting more land without sacrificing convenience.

View recently sold Key West homes here.

14. Dunlora

Dunlora provides a well-established community with neighborhood amenities on Route 29 North.

Located north of Charlottesville in Albemarle County, Dunlora has been a stable, family-friendly neighborhood for decades.

The community clubhouse, tennis court, swimming pool with summer swim teams, playground and open soccer spaces, and organized community events create a traditional suburban neighborhood feel.

Dunlora homes range from $300,000 to $800,000+, with a mix of single-family homes and townhomes in Shepherds Ridgeoffering various sizes and styles.

Adults value easy access to Route 29 for commuting, proximity to shopping centers, and the established neighborhood setting.

Children benefit from swim teams, safe streets for biking, playgrounds, and Albemarle County schools.

Dunlora offers solid value, community amenities, and a convenient location: a reliable choice for families.

View recently sold Dunlora homes here. View recently sold Shepherds Ridge cottages in Dunlora here.

15. Fontana

Fontana homes sit atop Pantops Mountain offering sunset views over Charlottesville and the mountains beyond.

This elevated location provides scenery and convenience.

Sentara Martha Jefferson Hospital, shopping, and downtown are all minutes away.

The Fontana neighborhood features a community pool, tennis court, walking trails, sidewalks, and well-maintained common areas.

Fontana homes range from $350,000 to $600,000+, with a variety of styles from traditional colonials to contemporary designs.

Many Fontana homes for sale take advantage of the elevation with decks and windows capturing valley and distant Blue Ridge Mountain views.

families appreciate the proximity to Sentara Martha Jefferson Hospital (ideal for medical professionals), easy access to downtown via Free Bridge and Monticello Avenue, and the Pantops Shopping Center is anchored with a Giant Food, restaurants, and services.

Children enjoy pools, trails, and Albemarle County schools.

The location provides quick access to I-64 for regional travel.

Fontana offers hillside living with suburban convenience.

View recently Fontana Charlottesville homes sold here.

16. Bellair

Bellair in Ivy offers wooded lots and mid-century charm in Western Albemarle County.

The Bellair neighborhood appeals to those seeking privacy, larger lots, and proximity to Western Albemarle schools.

Properties typically sit on 1-3 acre wooded lots with mature hardwoods, dogwoods, and mountain laurel.

Bellair Charlottesville real estate cosists of mid-century ranches and contemporaries, some original and others updated with modern amenities.

The natural setting provides privacy and a sense of retreat with UVA’s Mobil 4-Star Boar’s Head Resort and Birdwood Golf Course next door.

Bellair home prices range from $400,000 to $2,700,000+.

Adults appreciate the quiet setting, larger lots, and easy access to UVA, Barracks Road Shopping Center, and Western Albemarle High School.

Children enjoy large yards, natural surroundings for exploration, and excellent public schools.

The combination of privacy and convenience makes Bellair a solid choice for families wanting space without isolation.

View recently Bellair Charlottesville homes sold here.

17. Western Ridge Crozet

Western Ridge in Crozet features neighborhood amenities with mountain proximity.

Western Ridge Crozet homes for sale provide the convenience of a pool, two-tennis courts, gym, trails, and an historic clubhouse (for weddings and holiday parties) combined with Crozet’s small-town atmosphere and access to hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

There is a Sentara Family Medicine office at the entrance which is excellent.

Western Ridge Crozet homes for sale range from $500,000 to $885,000+.

The Western Ridge Homeowner’s Association is active and makes sure Western Ridge homes are well-maintained.

Families enjoy boating, fishing, and hiking access to trails in Mint Springs Park and Sugar Hollow Reservoir, Crozet’s growing downtown with breweries, restaurants, and coffee shops, and the community’s family-oriented feel.

Children benefit from swim teams, green space for play, sidewalks for safe biking, and top-rated Western Albemarle schools.

Western Ridge provides modern suburban living in the mountains: a winning combination.

View recently sold Western Ridge homes here.

Final Thoughts From a Top Charlottesville Realtor Since 2003

After more than 23 years selling Charlottesville real estate, I can confidently say these 17 most popular Charlottesville neighborhoods represent the very best of Charlottesville living.

Each offers a different lifestyle, but all provide strong community identity, meaningful amenities, and enduring value.

Whether you’re drawn to the walkable urbanism of North Downtown and Belmont, the country club elegance of Farmington and Glenmore, the conservation-minded living of Bundoran Farm and Blandemar Farm Estates, the family amenities of Forest Lakes and Old Trail, or the privacy of Keswick Estate and Greencroft, there’s a perfect Charlottesville neighborhood waiting for you.

My job is to help you find it.

I know these 17 most popular Charlottesville neighborhoods intimately, not just the real estate statistics, but the lifestyle, the schools, the community culture, the investment potential, and the hidden nuances that only come from decades of local experience.

I’ve helped hundreds of families find their ideal Charlottesville home, and I’d be honored to help you too.

Let’s talk about your vision for life in Charlottesville.

Call or text me or visit www.TobyBeaversRealtor.com to explore current listings and learn more about these exceptional communities.

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