Crozet: Small Town Charm, Big Mountain Views
Who it's great for: Families, people who want more space, nature lovers, and those who don’t mind a 20 to 30 minute drive into town.
What makes Crozet special:
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Mountain views everywhere. The Blue Ridge is your daily backdrop.
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Tight-knit community. Crozet has its own identity, from the Fourth of July parade to local breweries.
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Highly rated schools. Western Albemarle schools are consistently top-ranked.
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Newer homes and planned neighborhoods. Places like Old Trail offer walkability, golf, restaurants, and newer construction.
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Peace and quiet. You’ll hear birds, not sirens.
Things to consider:
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More driving. You’ll be commuting for work, errands, and most entertainment.
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Inventory moves fast. There’s still strong demand, especially for homes under $750K.
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Property types vary. You'll find everything from new builds to historic farmhouses.
North Downtown: Walkable, Historic, and In the Heart of It All
Who it's great for: Professionals, downsizers, urban-lovers, and anyone who wants to walk to restaurants, music, and markets.
What makes North Downtown special:
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Walk to everything. The Downtown Mall, coffee shops, and live music are just steps away.
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Historic charm. Many homes are early 1900s with character you can't replicate.
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Strong resale value. This is one of the most desirable zip codes in Charlottesville.
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Diverse price points. From smaller condos to million dollar historic homes.
Things to consider:
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Less space, more price. You're paying for location.
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Parking can be tricky. Especially during events.
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Older homes mean more maintenance. But also more character.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Crozet | North Downtown |
|---|---|---|
| Commute to UVA | 25 to 30 minutes | 5 to 10 minutes |
| Walkability | Medium (Old Trail) | High |
| Vibe | Suburban or mountain town | Urban or historic |
| Typical Lot Size | Larger | Smaller |
| Home Type | Mix of new and old | Primarily historic |
| Schools | Top-rated suburban | City school district |
