Introduction to Albemarle County, Virginia
Albemarle County is located in the central part of Virginia, nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Established in 1744, it was named after the Duke of Albemarle, a British colonial administrator. The county has a rich history, with deep ties to the founding of the United States. It is home to Monticello, the famous estate of Thomas Jefferson, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Today, Albemarle County is known for its blend of historic landmarks, natural beauty, and thriving educational institutions, with the University of Virginia at its heart.
Albemarle County experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. The county has a population of approximately 112,000 people, most of whom live in the surrounding areas of the City of Charlottesville, which serves as the cultural and economic hub for the region.
- County Seat: Charlottesville
- Number of Cities and Towns: 3 incorporated towns, many smaller unincorporated communities
- Major School Districts: Albemarle County Public Schools
Charlottesville
City Overview
Charlottesville, though an independent city, is closely linked to Albemarle County and serves as the county seat. Founded in 1762, the city is home to the University of Virginia, which was designed by Thomas Jefferson and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Charlottesville has been the cultural, educational, and economic center of the region, with a reputation for its historical importance, vibrant arts scene, and outdoor recreation opportunities.
The city enjoys a temperate climate with hot summers and mild winters. Landmarks include Monticello, the historic home of Thomas Jefferson, and the Downtown Mall, one of the longest pedestrian malls in the country. The scenic Blue Ridge Mountains provide a backdrop for the city, offering residents and visitors ample hiking and outdoor activities.
City Facts
- Population: 46,553 (2020 Census)
- Population Density: Approximately 4,200 people per square mile
- ZIP Codes: 22901, 22902, 22903
- Road Network: Interstate 64, U.S. Route 29, U.S. Route 250
- Nearest Airports: Charlottesville-Albemarle Airport
- Libraries: Jefferson-Madison Regional Library
- Hospitals: UVA Health System, Sentara Martha Jefferson Hospital
Major Schools
Charlottesville is served by both Albemarle County Public Schools and Charlottesville City Schools. Charlottesville High School (grades 9-12) enrolls around 1,200 students and offers a variety of Advanced Placement (AP) courses, arts programs, and athletics. Walker Upper Elementary School and Buford Middle School serve students in grades 5-8, while numerous elementary schools, such as Venable Elementary, provide K-4 education. The University of Virginia also offers world-class higher education, serving over 22,000 students.
Scottsville
City Overview
Scottsville is a small town located along the James River, at the southern border of Albemarle County. Founded in 1744, it was once a key port and trading hub, serving as a critical location for transporting tobacco and other goods via the river. Today, Scottsville retains its small-town charm, with a rich history and scenic location near the river, making it an attractive destination for visitors and residents alike.
Scottsville experiences the same temperate climate as the rest of the county, with warm summers and cool winters. Major landmarks in the town include the Scottsville Museum, which preserves the town’s early history, and the James River, which offers opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and hiking along its banks.
City Facts
- Population: 566 (2020 Census)
- Population Density: Approximately 580 people per square mile
- ZIP Code: 24590
- Road Network: State Route 20, State Route 6
- Nearest Airports: Charlottesville-Albemarle Airport
- Libraries: Scottsville Branch Library
- Hospitals: Nearest hospital in Charlottesville (UVA Health System)
Major Schools
Scottsville is served by Albemarle County Public Schools. Scottsville Elementary School provides education for grades K-5, with around 150 students enrolled. Most students continue their education at Walton Middle School and Monticello High School, located in nearby Charlottesville. Monticello High School (grades 9-12) serves approximately 1,200 students, offering a wide range of academic programs, including AP courses, arts, and technology education, as well as competitive athletics.
Crozet
City Overview
Crozet is an unincorporated town in western Albemarle County, located near the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Founded in the mid-19th century as a stop along the Chesapeake and Ohio Railway, Crozet has grown into a vibrant, family-oriented community known for its scenic views, apple orchards, and wineries. The town is named after Claudius Crozet, a French engineer who played a significant role in developing Virginia’s railroads.
Crozet has a pleasant climate, with mild winters and warm summers. Major landmarks include King Family Vineyards, which offers wine tastings and polo matches in the summer, and Mint Springs Valley Park, a popular local spot for hiking, picnicking, and swimming. Crozet also offers easy access to Shenandoah National Park, making it a gateway for outdoor enthusiasts.
City Facts
- Population: 9,680 (2020 Census)
- Population Density: Approximately 400 people per square mile
- ZIP Codes: 22932
- Road Network: U.S. Route 250, Interstate 64
- Nearest Airports: Charlottesville-Albemarle Airport
- Libraries: Crozet Library
- Hospitals: Nearest hospital in Charlottesville (UVA Health System)
Major Schools
Crozet is part of Albemarle County Public Schools. Western Albemarle High School (grades 9-12) serves around 1,100 students and offers a range of academic programs, including AP and honors courses. Henley Middle School (grades 6-8) enrolls about 800 students, and Crozet Elementary School serves grades K-5 with approximately 450 students. The schools in Crozet are known for their academic excellence and strong community involvement, offering sports, arts, and enrichment programs for students.
Keswick
City Overview
Keswick is a rural community located east of Charlottesville, known for its historic estates, rolling hills, and equestrian culture. Founded in the 18th century, Keswick has long been home to sprawling horse farms and vineyards. Today, the area maintains its pastoral beauty, offering a peaceful and luxurious lifestyle just minutes away from the amenities of Charlottesville.
Keswick enjoys a temperate climate, with mild winters and warm, humid summers. Major landmarks include Keswick Hall, a historic luxury resort, and Castle Hill Cider, which produces award-winning ciders and hosts events in its picturesque setting. Keswick’s proximity to Shenandoah National Park and the Blue Ridge Mountains makes it a prime location for hiking and horseback riding.
City Facts
- Population: Approximately 3,500 (2020 Census)
- Population Density: Low, rural area
- ZIP Code: 22947
- Road Network: U.S. Route 250, Interstate 64
- Nearest Airports: Charlottesville-Albemarle Airport
- Libraries: Nearest library in Charlottesville (Jefferson-Madison Regional Library)
- Hospitals: Nearest hospital in Charlottesville (UVA Health System)
Major Schools
Students in Keswick attend schools in Albemarle County Public Schools. Most students attend Stone-Robinson Elementary School (grades K-5), which enrolls around 400 students. For middle school, students typically go to Burley Middle School (grades 6-8), and for high school, they attend Monticello High School. The district provides a well-rounded education, with a strong emphasis on academic achievement, extracurricular activities, and community engagement.