Fredericksburg, VA Homes For Rent

Homes for Rent in Fredericksburg, VA: What You Need to Know

Fredericksburg is located on the Rappahannock River in northern Virginia. The site of a major Civil War battle, the city is steeped in history. 

Job Opportunities

Fredericksburg is part of the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area. The city’s location – halfway between Washington, D.C., and the state capital of Richmond – is one of its biggest advantages. There are 7,700 businesses in the area. Top employers in Fredericksburg include Mary Washington Hospital, University of Mary Washington, Medicorp Health System, Walmart, Wegmans, and the City of Fredericksburg. 

Local History

Fredericksburg was established in 1728, and named in honor of Frederick, Prince of Wales, the eldest son of King George II of Great Britain. The city prospered as a major port, and served as an inspection point for the tobacco industry. During the Civil War, Fredericksburg was the site for the first urban battle since the Revolutionary War. The battle in December 1862 resulted in 12,653 Union casualties and 4,201 Confederate casualties. It was a major defeat for the Union Army.

How Expensive is It to Live in Fredericksburg?

Washington, D.C., is the second most expensive place to live in the U.S., behind Hawaii. Fredericksburg, only 47 miles south of the nation’s capital, is similarly expensive. Fredericksburg’s (population: 29,036) cost of living rate and housing costs are 55.6% and 37.1% higher than the national average, respectively. At least, food cost is 1.6% lower than the national average. The median gross rent is $1,258. Virginia doesn’t tax Social Security benefits. It charges 2% to 5.75% in income tax and 5.3% to 7% in sales tax.

What Can You Do for Fun in Fredericksburg?

The city’s rich past offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy historic sites. The Washington Heritage Museums include four house museums in downtown Fredericksburg associated with President George Washington’s family. Visit the Fredericksburg Battlefield, where one of the most famous Civil War battles took place. The visitor center features exhibits and a short film describing the battle. You can take a guided walk down the Sunken Road, where the heaviest fighting occurred. The site includes a cemetery for soldiers.

How Are the Schools in Fredericksburg?

Overall, Virginia is one of the nation’s top 10 states with the best public schools. The Fredericksburg City School District has five public schools with 3,617 students. James Monroe High School and Lafayette Upper Elementary School are among the city’s highly ranked schools. University of Mary Washington (4,727 students), known for its liberal arts and science programs, is based in Fredericksburg. It was founded in 1908, and named for President George Washington’s mother. There are 29 colleges and universities within 50 miles of the city.