Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Harrisonburg, VA
Considering a move to Harrisonburg, VA? This friendly city of 52,647 residents offers a vibrant college-town atmosphere, affordable living with median home prices around $295,000, and average rents near $1,140. Residents enjoy a short 16.5-minute commute, mild climate with 55% sunny days, and access to quality healthcare and education—including James Madison University. While crime rates are higher than the national average, Harrisonburg is known for its diversity, active lifestyle, and welcoming community.
Demographics - Harrisonburg, VA
Demographics - Harrisonburg, VA
Harrisonburg is a youthful and diverse city with a population of 52,647 and a median age of just 23.7, thanks in part to its vibrant college community. The city features a mix of cultures, with nearly 20% of residents speaking a language other than English at home, and a strong representation of White, Black, Asian, and other ethnic groups. This blend creates a dynamic atmosphere ideal for newcomers seeking a lively and inclusive environment.
Population:
52,647
Density:
3,200 per sq mi
Median Age:
23.7
Gender Ratio:
93 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
19.8%
Ethnic Composition
White:
73.2%
Black:
7.5%
Asian:
5.7%
Others:
13.6%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Harrisonburg, VA?
Living in Harrisonburg is relatively affordable, with a cost of living index below the national average and median home values at $295,000. Renters benefit from average monthly costs around $1,140, and utilities and transportation remain reasonably priced. State income taxes are moderate, making the city financially accessible for many households.
Median House Value:
$295,000
Gross Rent:
$1,140
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,050
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,560
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$520
State Taxes:
Low:
2.0%
|
High:
5.75%
Cost Of Living Index:
94.5
Grocery:
97.2
Housing:
89.7
Utilities:
98.5
Transportation:
93.9
Health Care:
95.3
Miscellaneous:
92.8
Crime
Is Harrisonburg, VA a safe place to live?
Harrisonburg experiences crime rates above the national average, with about 306 violent crimes and 2,100 property crimes per 100,000 people annually. Residents have a 1 in 326 chance of being affected by violent crime and a 1 in 48 chance for property crime. While safety is a consideration, the city remains a popular choice for students and families alike.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
306
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,100
Crime Index:
2,406
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 326
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 48
Weather
What is the weather like in Harrisonburg, VA year-round?
Residents enjoy four distinct seasons, with mild winters averaging highs of 41°F and warm summers reaching up to 86°F. Harrisonburg gets about 36.7 inches of rainfall per year and sees sunshine 55% of the time, making outdoor activities popular throughout the year. The pleasant climate adds to the city’s appeal for those seeking varied but moderate weather.
Winter
Min:
23°F
Max:
41°F
Spring
Min:
44°F
Max:
67°F
Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
86°F
Fall
Min:
45°F
Max:
70°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
36.7 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
55%
Neighbors
The community features a median household income of $56,100 and a family income of $68,200, though about 22.5% of residents live below the poverty line. Most neighbors commute just 16.5 minutes to work, and public transportation use is modest. Education levels are solid, with over 86% of adults holding at least a high school diploma and 31% earning a bachelor’s degree or higher.
Median Income:
$38,900
Household Income:
$56,100
Family Income:
$68,200
Per Capita Income:
$24,700
Income Male:
$37,800
Income Female:
$33,200
Poverty Rate:
22.5%
Non English Speakers:
19.8%
Rent:
$1,140
Unemployment Rate:
3.8%
Public Transport Usage:
2.1%
Commute Time:
16.5 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
86.4%
Bachelors or More:
31.4%
Education
How are the schools in Harrisonburg, VA?
Harrisonburg is home to reputable public and private schools, including Harrisonburg High School and Eastern Mennonite School, with favorable student-teacher ratios for personalized learning. Higher education is a standout feature, as the city hosts James Madison University and Eastern Mennonite University, providing diverse academic and cultural opportunities. This strong educational presence supports families and students at every stage.
Public Schools
Name:
Harrisonburg High School
Street:
1001 Garbers Church Rd
Phone:
540-433-2651
Students:
1,800
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.7
Name:
Thomas Harrison Middle School
Street:
1311 W Market St
Phone:
540-434-1949
Students:
850
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.9
Private Schools
Name:
Eastern Mennonite School
Street:
801 Parkwood Dr
Phone:
540-236-6000
Students:
360
Colleges
Name:
James Madison University
City:
Harrisonburg
State:
VA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
21,500
Name:
Eastern Mennonite University
City:
Harrisonburg
State:
VA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
1,500
Healthcare
Harrisonburg offers quality healthcare with major facilities like Sentara RMH Medical Center providing comprehensive services, including emergency care. There are 2.4 physicians per 1,000 residents, and nearly 87% of people have health insurance coverage. The city’s healthcare infrastructure ensures residents have access to essential medical support.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Sentara RMH Medical Center
Address:
2010 Health Campus Dr, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
Phone:
(540) 689-1000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.4
Health Insurance Coverage:
87.2%
Health Care Index:
77.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Harrisonburg, VA?
The local housing market is affordable, with median home prices at $295,000 and two-bedroom rentals averaging $1,140 per month. Homeownership is lower than average at 37.3%, reflecting a strong rental market, and vacancy rates remain low. Steady home appreciation and minimal foreclosures make Harrisonburg attractive for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$295,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,140
Owner Occupied Rate:
37.3%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.7%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Vehicle services in Harrisonburg are managed by the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, conveniently located on Peoples Drive. Residents can handle licensing, registration, and other DMV needs in person, by phone, or online through the state website. This local office ensures efficient access to essential transportation services.
State:
Virginia
Department:
Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
3281 Peoples Dr, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
Phone:
1-804-497-7100
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.