Life in the Region

 

Life in the Region

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Charlottesville is a small, thriving city of 45,000 people, with a local area population of around 150,000, located in west-central Virginia. Approximately 110 miles southwest of Washington DC, and 70 miles west of Richmond, Charlottesville is nestled in the foothills of the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains and is the seat of Albemarle County.

Affectionately known as "C'ville", the city and surrounding area are home to a wide array of scenic, cultural, historical, and recreational activities. The region boasts a highly educated workforce, excellent school systems, high quality health care, and affordable living.

Residents pride themselves on our local heritage, the area's natural beauty, and our city's nationally-ranked reputation. Charlottesville has enjoyed rankings as #1 City in America" (Frommer's), "Best Place to Live Among Small Cities" (Money magazine), "Top Ten Cities That Have It All" (A&E TV), "40 Best College Towns..." (Outside), "Healthiest Place to Live" (Kiplinger), "Hottest for Fitness" (Newsweek), and "Best Place to Raise a Family" (Readers' Digest).

weinbaum.jpgCharlottesville's natural beauty is rivaled only by the scope of opportunities it creates.
Brad Weinbaum, PGY-2

"The city of Charlottesville has been the best surprise of residency, and without hesitation I am proud to now call C'ville my home. The rich history is deeply rooted in the University and the city proper, and architectural themes on Grounds and at local historical sites are magnificent in their beauty and a constant reminder of the influence of past leaders of our nation. Set less than 15 miles from Shenandoah National Park and the nearby Blue Ridge Mountains, it's easy to plan hiking-biking-camping activities to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. As an avid golfer, I've discovered challenging, affordable courses close by and mild winters allow for year-round play.

Below the Mason-Dixon Line, Charlottesville provides this Pittsburgh native with a Southern vibe. At the same time, the city remains rich in diversity – a young, vibrant, growing community as a result of the University and the HealthSystem. Great food can be found at over 100 independent restaurants and the city remains a popular tour stop for artists and bands of all music genres. There is nothing like unwinding at Fridays After Five after a long work week and spending time on the Downtown Mall pedestrian-park where you are assured to see colleagues and friends. From early morning starts to late nights, C'ville truly has something for everyone."

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 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.

Whether visiting, interviewing, or moving and settling in, we hope you'll explore the many attractions and services of our area. Please see Regional Info for Housestaff for helpful links.

le.jpgI've never had a boring moment here in Charlottesville.
Tri Le, M.D., PGY-3

"I loved my four years at UVA as a medical student, so staying here for my for internal medicine residency was an easy choice. I'm happy I've been allowed to become a Double-Hoo!

I've never run out of things to do in Charlottesville. Loving the outdoors, it's great to have the Blue Ridge Mountains right in our backyard. Whether you are looking for a good day hike, a long biking trail, or a scenic place to sip some wine, it's only a short drive away. We even have a ski resort nearby (its small, but good enough for a day trip)! The town itself also has everything you could possibly need from small music venues on the downtown mall to football games at Scott Stadium. And with restaurants everywhere, it's hard to get bored.

But what really drew me to stay were the residents themselves. Everyone just seemed happier than they should be considering how much work they were doing, and I could easily see myself working and enjoying my time with the people here."