Settled in the 18th century on a hill overlooking the Rivanna River, Charlottesville was named in honor of Queen Charlotte, wife of King George III. The scenic Blue Ridge Mountains serve as a backdrop to the city, 110 miles from Washington, D.C. and 70 miles from the state capitol, Richmond.

The Charlottesville-Albemarle region boasts a highly educated workforce, excellent school systems, high quality healthcare, and affordable living. Residents pride themselves on our local heritage, the area's natural beauty, and our city's nationally-ranked reputation. Named "#1 City in America" by Frommer's in 2004, Charlottesville has also enjoyed rankings as "Best Place to Live Among Small Cities (Money magazine), "Top Ten Cities That Have It All" (Arts & Entertainment TV), "40 Best College Towns..." (Outside), "Healthiest Place to Live" (Kiplinger Personal Finance), "Hottest for Fitness" (Newsweek), and "Best Place to Raise a Family" (Readers' Digest).

The area's economic base centers on tourism, higher education, light manufacturing, agriculture, and retail trade. Each year thousands of tourists view the Grounds of the University of Virginia and the homes of U.S. Presidents Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, and James Monroe. The Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah Valley offer plentiful recreational opportunities including hiking the Appalachian Trail, mountain biking, and hot air ballooning. Musical and cultural venues including the Charlottesville Pavilion, John Paul Jones Arena, Paramount Theater, and the Virginia Film Festival bring national and international performers to town. Charlottesville-Albemarle is also host to an incredible selection of casual and fine dining establishments and many notable wineries.

There's something here for everyone. Whether visiting, interviewing, or moving and settling in, we hope you'll explore the many attractions and services of our area. Please click here for more information.