Staunton 81 Exceptional
Staunton Livability #56 ranked city in Virginia#1,524 ranked city in the USARanks better than 94% of areas
Is This the Right Place for You? Local Insights Report
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Pros and Cons of Living in Staunton

PROS
  • Cost Of Living Cost Of Living

    Everyday cost of living expenses like goods and services, housing, groceries, transportation, health care and utilities are far below the national average.

  • Crime Crime

    This area boasts a crime rate that is far below the national average, making it a very safe place to live. These crime statistics encompass both property and violent offenses.

  • Housing Housing

    Impressive scores in the housing category characterize this area, potentially attributed to the availability of affordable housing, strong appreciation rates and high home values.

  • Health & Safety Health & Safety

    Accessible health facilities like hospitals, doctors offices, clinics and nursing homes as well as good air quality are all factors that have led to a high score in this category.

  • Schools Schools

    The high score in the schools category can be attributed to outstanding test scores, elevated graduation rates and the convenient placement of elementary and high schools in this area.

CONS
  • Commute Commute

    Low commute scores could be due to limited access to public transit in this area, as well as longer-than-average work commute times for residents.

What's it like Living in Staunton?

Staunton is a moderately-sized city located in the state of Virginia. The city has a population of 25,543 inhabitants. According to the most recent Census, 83% of Staunton residents are White, 11% Black and 1% Asian.

Without the right tools, moving to any new area can be very stressful and challenging. Living in Staunton, Virginia could be a fulfilling experience for anyone who puts in the time to do the research required. When searching for a new neighborhood, several key items should be considered. Safety is paramount, ensuring a secure environment for you and your family. Proximity to workplaces or schools reduces commuting time and enhances convenience. Access to amenities like parks, grocery stores and healthcare facilities contributes to a comfortable lifestyle. Reliable public transportation options promote easy mobility. A strong sense of community fosters social connections and a welcoming atmosphere. The best areas in Staunton and in surrounding cities are easier to find when you are able to make informed decisions. Using data from amenities, crime, commute, education, housing, you will see a detailed breakdown of the most important information as well as comparisons to the Virginia and national averages.

The livability score in Staunton is 80/100 and the city is ranked in the 94th percentile of all cities across America. This is a great score, as Staunton ranks well in multiple categories! This city is also ranked in the top 10 percentile of all cities across the USA. For each of the livability categories, we can establish that Staunton ranks very well for crime (A-), cost of living (A), education (A) and housing (A+).

Low rates of violent crime, encompassing offenses such as murder, rape, robbery and assault, contribute significantly to a safer living environment. This reduction in crime minimizes the chances of personal harm, property theft, or violent incidents. Furthermore, low crime rates can have a positive impact on property values and the overall desirability of an area. There were 141 crimes per 100,000 residents, which signifies that Staunton boasts an impressively low violent crime rate that falls well below the national average.

When contemplating a move, job prospects often top the list of priorities. In Staunton, the outlook for new employment is notably brighter than in many other areas. The low unemployment rate of 2.4% points to a surge in job opportunities, the potential for higher wages, enhanced workforce productivity and increased economic growth. These favorable conditions bode well for individuals seeking career advancement and financial stability, making this area an appealing destination for those prioritizing professional opportunities and economic prosperity.

Parents and families often rely on school test scores when making decisions about local public schools. Test score data serves as a crucial metric for comparing and assessing various educational institutions. In Staunton, the average school test scores reached an impressive 70%, significantly higher than the national average. This remarkable performance underscores the commitment of the educational system to equip students with the knowledge and resources necessary for success. It allows your children to receive the support and skills that are essential for thriving academically, making Staunton an excellent choice for families seeking a high-quality education.

For home buyers, real estate will be the largest purchase they will ever make and it will also be their most valuable asset. For renters, the monthly rent paid on their Staunton apartments will most likely be their largest expense. Based on tangible metrics like home and rental affordability and appreciation rates, housing in this area has received a score that is well above the average of every other US city. A thriving real estate market can also generate strong local economic activity and job creation.

Certain items on your wish list like shopping, restaurants, nightlife, parks and proximity to public transportation are all important things to look for. Having said that, perhaps the most important metric to consider when contemplating a move to Staunton is real estate affordability. Median real estate prices in Staunton come in at $307,795, which is 29.2% lower than the Virginia average. The home price to income ratio compares the median home prices to the median household income. In Staunton, the home price to income ratio is 4, which is 11.1% lower than the Virginia average.

Best Places to Live in and Around Staunton

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Compare Staunton, VA Livability

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      Staunton transportation information

      Statistic Staunton Virginia National
      Average one way commute22min28min26min
      Workers who drive to work82.4%77.4%76.4%
      Workers who carpool6.9%9.5%9.3%
      Workers who take public transit0.6%4.5%5.1%
      Workers who bicycle0.8%0.4%0.6%
      Workers who walk3.5%2.4%2.8%
      Working from home4.4%4.7%4.6%
      Source: The Staunton, VA data and statistics displayed above are derived from the United States Census Bureau American Community Survey (ACS) and include 2026 modeled data developed using proprietary methodologies.