Reasons to Move to Staunton, Virginia

Staunton, Virginia, is a city that seamlessly blends history with modern living, making it an enticing destination for those considering a move. Renowned as the birthplace of President Woodrow Wilson, Staunton’s rich historical tapestry is visible in its beautifully preserved downtown, featuring over 100 buildings on the National Register of Historic Places. Residents enjoy a vibrant cultural scene, highlighted by the American Shakespeare Center, which hosts world-class performances year-round. Beyond the arts, Staunton is surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of the Shenandoah Valley, offering abundant opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to explore hiking trails, scenic parks, and the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains, all just a stone’s throw away.

The community spirit in Staunton is palpable, with numerous local events and festivals that engage residents and foster connections. The Staunton Farmers Market showcases fresh produce and artisanal goods, while seasonal celebrations bring a festive atmosphere to the city. Families will appreciate the strong educational framework, including public schools recognized for academic excellence, making Staunton an ideal place to raise children. With its affordable housing options and a cost of living significantly lower than many urban areas, Staunton invites newcomers to envision a fulfilling life enriched by both community and culture. As you delve deeper into what Staunton has to offer, you’ll discover a place where history, community, and opportunity converge, making it worthy of consideration for your next home.

Cost to Move to Staunton, Virginia

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Cost of living in Staunton, Virginia

Housing Costs

The cost of housing in Staunton, Virginia, is relatively affordable compared to national averages. As of 2023, the median home price in Staunton is approximately $250,000, which is significantly lower than the national median of around $400,000. Renters can expect to pay a median rent of about $1,100 per month for a two-bedroom apartment. The housing market here offers a variety of options, from historic homes to new developments, catering to different lifestyles and budgets. For more detailed information on housing trends and property listings, visit Zillow.

Utilities

The average monthly utility bill in Staunton, which includes electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage, typically ranges from $150 to $200, depending on the size of the household and usage habits. Electricity costs average about $130 per month, with natural gas prices averaging $70 monthly. Internet services average around $60 per month. For a detailed breakdown of utility costs, check out the Numbeo website.

Groceries/Food

Grocery prices in Staunton are generally in line with the national average. A typical household can expect to spend approximately $350 to $500 per month on groceries. Prices for common items include: a gallon of milk at $3.50, a dozen eggs at $2.50, and a loaf of bread at $3.00. For more detailed grocery prices, visit the USDA Economic Research Service.

Transportation

Residents of Staunton can expect to pay around $150 to $200 per month for transportation costs. This includes public transportation, which is limited but available, as well as the cost of gas and vehicle maintenance. The average price for gas in Staunton is approximately $3.40 per gallon, slightly lower than the national average. For public transit details, refer to the Virginia Department of Transportation.

Healthcare

Healthcare costs in Staunton are reasonable compared to national averages, with individual health insurance premiums averaging around $400 per month. Out-of-pocket costs for a typical doctor’s visit range from $100 to $150, depending on the provider and insurance plan. For more information on healthcare costs in Virginia, visit the HealthCare.gov.

Childcare and Education

Childcare costs in Staunton vary significantly by age and type of care. Parents can expect to pay approximately $800 to $1,200 per month for full-time daycare for infants and toddlers. Preschool programs average around $400 per month. For families considering education options, public schools in Staunton are well-rated, with funding averaging $11,500 per student. For more insights on childcare and educational expenses, visit the Niche.

Taxes

Virginia has a state income tax that ranges from 2% to 5.75%, depending on income brackets. Property tax in Staunton is approximately 0.93%, which is lower than the national average. Sales tax in the area is 5.3%. For further details on Virginia’s tax structure, you can visit the Virginia Department of Taxation.

Insurance

Homeowners in Staunton can expect to pay an average annual premium of about $1,200 for home insurance, while renters insurance typically costs around $200 annually. Auto insurance averages about $1,100 per year. Insurance costs can vary based on coverage levels and individual circumstances. For more detailed information, check the Insurance.com.

Recreation and Entertainment

Recreational expenses in Staunton can range from $50 to $150 per month, depending on individual preferences. Memberships to local gyms and fitness centers average about $40 per month, while movie tickets are approximately $10. The city also hosts numerous free events and festivals, which enhance the community experience without incurring additional costs. For more information on local activities and entertainment options, visit Staunton’s official website.

Clothing

Clothing expenses in Staunton are generally in line with national averages, with an average monthly spend of about $100. Local retail stores, as well as nearby shopping centers, offer a range of options for clothing purchases, allowing residents to find attire that fits both their budget and style. For more information on local shopping options, visit Shop Staunton.

Personal Care

Personal care expenses, including haircuts, toiletries, and cosmetic products, typically range from $50 to $100 per month in Staunton. A standard haircut costs around $25, and basic skincare products can add to monthly expenses. For more insights into personal care services available in the area, check out Yelp.

Miscellaneous Expenses

Miscellaneous expenses, including entertainment subscriptions (e.g., streaming services), dining out, and unexpected costs, can add an additional $100 to $200 per month to a household’s budget. Dining out costs around $15 to $25 per meal at a mid-range restaurant. For a breakdown of costs related to dining and entertainment in Staunton, visit Numbeo.

Is Staunton, Virginia a safe place to live – Crime Rates?

Crime Rate

Staunton, Virginia, has a relatively low overall crime rate compared to national averages. According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) program, the total crime rate in Staunton in 2021 was approximately 2,460 incidents per 100,000 residents, which is lower than the national average of about 3,757 incidents per 100,000 residents. This indicates that Staunton is generally a safer place to live than many other areas across the country. For more details, visit the NeighborhoodScout.

Violent Crime Rate

The violent crime rate in Staunton is significantly below the national average. In 2021, the city reported a violent crime rate of 202 incidents per 100,000 people, while the national average stands at about 387 incidents per 100,000 people. This suggests that residents of Staunton face a lower risk of violent crime. For a deeper understanding of violent crime trends in the area, refer to the Crime Grade.

Property Crime Rate

Property crime in Staunton is also lower than the national average. The property crime rate in 2021 was reported at 2,258 incidents per 100,000 residents, compared to the national average of approximately 2,362 incidents per 100,000. This data indicates that Staunton residents experience a slightly lower risk of property crimes such as burglary and theft. For detailed statistics on property crime, visit the NeighborhoodScout.

Police Presence

The Staunton Police Department is actively engaged in maintaining safety within the community. The department employs approximately 34 full-time officers and operates with a commitment to community policing, which aims to foster positive relationships between law enforcement and residents. For more information on the Staunton Police Department’s initiatives and community programs, check out their official site here.

Neighborhood Watch Programs

Staunton has several active neighborhood watch programs designed to promote safety and community involvement. These programs encourage residents to be vigilant and report suspicious activities, thereby enhancing the overall safety of neighborhoods. The police department provides resources and support to help establish and maintain these programs. More information can be found on the Staunton Police Department’s Community Programs page.

Safety Rankings

According to Safewise’s 2023 report on Virginia’s safest cities, Staunton ranked 37th out of 65 cities, highlighting its commitment to safety and community well-being. This ranking is based on various factors, including crime rates, police presence, and community initiatives. For detailed safety rankings across Virginia, visit Safewise.

Trend Data

Crime trends in Staunton have shown a consistent decline over the past several years. From 2019 to 2021, overall crime rates decreased by approximately 7%. This trend reflects the effectiveness of community policing efforts and increased public awareness regarding safety measures. For further insights into crime trends, you can explore the City-Data website.

School Safety

Safety within schools in Staunton is a priority, with the local school district implementing various measures to ensure a secure learning environment. This includes controlled access to school buildings, surveillance systems, and regular safety drills. The Staunton City Schools district is also proactive in addressing bullying and mental health concerns among students. For more information about school safety measures, visit the Staunton City Schools official website.

What are the demographics of Staunton, Virginia?

White

As of the most recent census data in 2023, the majority of Staunton’s population identifies as White, comprising approximately 83.5% of the total population. This makes it the largest racial demographic in the city. The White population has remained stable over the past decade, with only minor fluctuations in percentage.

Black or African American

The Black or African American community in Staunton makes up around 10.2% of the population. Although smaller than the White demographic, this group represents the second-largest racial group in the city. Over the years, this population has grown modestly, reflecting broader trends seen in parts of Virginia.

Hispanic or Latino

The Hispanic or Latino population in Staunton accounts for roughly 4.6% of the city’s population. While this demographic has historically been smaller, it has experienced noticeable growth in recent years as more Hispanic families and individuals have moved to the area for employment opportunities and community life.

Two or More Races

Approximately 2.3% of Staunton’s residents identify as being of Two or More Races. This reflects a slight increase from previous years as more individuals are identifying with multiple racial backgrounds.

Asian

The Asian population in Staunton is relatively small, making up about 1.1% of the total population. While not a large group, the Asian community is a growing presence in the city, contributing to the diversity of the local workforce and businesses.

Native American

The Native American population in Staunton is minimal, representing less than 0.2% of the overall demographic makeup. Due to the small size of this group, there has been little change in its population over recent years.

Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander

The Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander population in Staunton is nearly nonexistent, accounting for less than 0.1% of the city’s population. This figure has remained consistent in recent years due to the small number of Pacific Islanders residing in the region.

Sources

1. Census Bureau: QuickFacts for Staunton, Virginia

2. City-Data: Staunton, Virginia

3. World Population Review: Staunton, Virginia Population 2023

Staunton, Virginia Population by Age and Gender

The total population of Staunton, Virginia is 25,661 as of the most recent census data in 2023.

Total Population by Gender

According to the latest data, Staunton’s population is divided nearly evenly between genders. Females make up approximately 53.4% of the total population, while males represent 46.6%. This gender distribution aligns with broader national trends but skews slightly higher toward females.

Age Distribution

The median age in Staunton is 43.7 years, which is higher than the national median age of 38.4 years. This reflects the city’s aging population. Around 21.6% of residents are 65 years or older, making Staunton home to a significant proportion of retirees. Meanwhile, 19.4% of the population is under the age of 18, showing that families with children also make up a notable portion of the community.

Gender Distribution within Age Groups

Among Staunton’s elderly population (65+), women outnumber men, making up around 57% of this age group. In contrast, in the younger population (under 18), males make up about 51%, indicating a slightly higher proportion of boys than girls in the city’s youth demographic.

Dependency Ratios

Staunton has a total dependency ratio of 64.7, which indicates that there are about 65 dependents (individuals under 18 and over 65) for every 100 working-age adults (18-64 years). This higher-than-average ratio reflects the city’s significant elderly population and growing number of retirees.

Marital Status by Age and Gender

In Staunton, about 48% of males and 46% of females aged 15 years and older are currently married. Meanwhile, around 15% of men and 14% of women are divorced, which is close to the national divorce rate. The percentage of never-married individuals is also relatively high among younger age groups, with approximately 32% of men and 29% of women aged 25-34 never having married.

Educational Attainment by Age and Gender

Among adults aged 25 and over, 88.1% of females and 86.7% of males in Staunton have completed high school. Furthermore, around 32% of women and 28% of men have obtained a bachelor’s degree or higher. This reflects a strong emphasis on education in the community, especially among women, who are slightly more likely to have attained higher education than men.

Economic Participation by Age and Gender

As of 2023, the labor force participation rate in Staunton for men aged 16 and older is 66.3%, while for women it is 61.7%. Among the working-age population (ages 25-64), men have a higher full-time employment rate at 71%, compared to 65% for women. However, women are more likely to work part-time or participate in family-based businesses.

Sources

Census Bureau: QuickFacts for Staunton, Virginia

City-Data: Staunton, Virginia

Statistical Atlas: Age and Sex Demographics in Staunton

World Population Review: Staunton, Virginia Population

Staunton, Virginia Zip Codes

Staunton, Virginia has the following ZIP codes:

  • 24401
  • 24402

These ZIP codes cover the entire city and surrounding areas.

What is the history of Staunton, Virginia?

Early Beginnings: The Founding of Staunton

Staunton, Virginia, was officially founded in 1747, making it one of the oldest towns in the Shenandoah Valley. The town was named after Lady Rebecca Staunton, the wife of Sir William Gooch, who was the Royal Lieutenant Governor of Virginia at the time. Originally, the area served as a frontier outpost for settlers moving westward, and it quickly became an important hub for trade and travel due to its location along the Great Wagon Road, a major migration route leading from Pennsylvania to the southern colonies.

Staunton During the American Revolution

Staunton’s significance grew during the American Revolution as it became a regional center for political activity and military supply. In 1781, during the Revolutionary War, the Virginia General Assembly temporarily relocated to Staunton when British forces threatened the state capital in Richmond. This marked Staunton as a key location during one of the most pivotal moments in Virginia’s history.

Growth and Expansion in the 19th Century

In the 1800s, Staunton experienced rapid growth with the construction of the Virginia Central Railroad in 1854. This railroad connected the city to Richmond and other major economic centers, solidifying Staunton as a transportation hub. The city’s economy flourished during this time, with industries such as milling, ironworks, and manufacturing becoming prominent. Staunton also became home to several educational institutions, including the Virginia School for the Deaf and the Blind, which was established in 1839.

The Civil War Era

Staunton played a notable role during the Civil War due to its strategic location and railroad connections. The city served as a supply and medical center for Confederate forces. Staunton’s railroad made it a key target for Union forces, and it was captured in June 1864 during General David Hunter’s Valley Campaign. After its brief occupation, Staunton quickly rebuilt, and by the late 19th century, it was once again a bustling center of commerce and transportation.

The Birthplace of President Woodrow Wilson

One of Staunton’s most famous historical associations is with the 28th President of the United States, Woodrow Wilson. Born in Staunton in 1856, Wilson spent the early years of his life here before his family moved to Georgia. The town honors his legacy with the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library and Museum, which remains one of the city’s major attractions today.

20th Century: Civic Leadership and Urban Planning

In the early 20th century, Staunton became known for its leadership in urban planning. In 1908, the city hired architect and planner George Edward Kessler to design a citywide plan that emphasized green spaces, public parks, and an efficient street layout. Staunton was also an early adopter of the city manager form of government, which has since been implemented across the country.

Modern-Day Staunton

Today, Staunton is known for its well-preserved historic downtown, which boasts numerous examples of Victorian architecture. The city is a cultural hub in the Shenandoah Valley, with attractions like the American Shakespeare Center’s Blackfriars Playhouse, the only re-creation of Shakespeare’s indoor theater in the world. Staunton’s dedication to historic preservation and the arts has helped the city maintain its charm while fostering a growing tourism and cultural scene.

Sources

City of Staunton: History of Staunton

Encyclopedia Virginia: Staunton

National Park Service: Staunton Historic District

Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library

Staunton, Virginia Weather

Average Temperature by Month

Staunton, Virginia experiences a range of temperatures throughout the year. The coldest month is January, with an average low of 25°F (-4°C) and a high of 42°F (5°C). July is the hottest month, with an average high of 86°F (30°C) and a low of 64°F (18°C).

  • January: Low 25°F (-4°C), High 42°F (5°C)
  • April: Low 42°F (6°C), High 65°F (18°C)
  • July: Low 64°F (18°C), High 86°F (30°C)
  • October: Low 45°F (7°C), High 66°F (19°C)

Precipitation Patterns

Staunton receives an average of 41 inches (1,041 mm) of rain annually, which is slightly higher than the U.S. national average of 38 inches. The wettest months are May and September, with average rainfall of around 4 inches per month, while February tends to be the driest, with just under 3 inches of rainfall.

  • May: 4.2 inches (107 mm)
  • September: 4.0 inches (102 mm)
  • February: 2.7 inches (69 mm)

Extreme Weather Events

Staunton is generally free from extreme weather events such as hurricanes and tornadoes, though occasional severe thunderstorms may occur in the summer. Winter months can bring moderate snowfall, with the city averaging about 18 inches (46 cm) of snow per year. The largest recorded snowstorm in recent years occurred in 2016, when a blizzard brought over 30 inches of snow.

Humidity Levels

The humidity in Staunton can vary greatly by season. The most humid months are during summer, particularly in July and August, when humidity levels can exceed 80% on particularly hot days. Winter months, such as January, tend to be much drier, with average humidity levels around 65%.

Sunlight

Staunton averages about 205 sunny days per year, which is slightly below the national average of 205 sunny days. July typically sees the most sunlight, with around 10 hours of daylight, while December experiences the shortest days, with just over 9 hours of daylight.

Wind Patterns

Wind speeds in Staunton are generally moderate, with an average of around 8.5 miles per hour (13.7 km/h) throughout the year. The windiest months are March and April, with gusts occasionally reaching up to 20 miles per hour (32 km/h). Wind direction is typically from the west or northwest.

Comparison to Virginia State Weather

Staunton’s climate is slightly cooler than the Virginia state average, particularly in the winter months. Virginia’s coastal areas tend to have milder winters, with higher humidity levels year-round. In terms of precipitation, Staunton receives slightly more rain annually than the state average of 44 inches, and the snowfall in Staunton is higher than the coastal regions of Virginia, which rarely see significant snow accumulation.

Comparison to U.S. National Weather

Compared to national averages, Staunton has slightly more rainy days and a similar amount of sunny days. The average snowfall in Staunton is higher than the U.S. average of 28 inches in snow-prone areas, but well below the amounts seen in northern states like New York or Michigan. Staunton’s temperatures are typical for a mid-Atlantic city, with hot summers and cold winters, aligning with the broader U.S. climate in temperate zones.

Sources

Weather-US: Staunton Climate Data

US Climate Data: Staunton, VA

Current Results: Virginia State Weather Averages

BestPlaces: Staunton Climate

Average Income in Staunton, Virginia

The average annual salary in Staunton, Virginia, is approximately $46,080. This is based on data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) as of May 2023. Comparatively, the state average salary in Virginia is higher, at $70,050, while the national average stands at around $61,900. Staunton’s income levels are thus notably lower than both the state and national averages, which reflects the city’s smaller size and different economic dynamics.

Average Hourly Wage in Staunton, Virginia

The average hourly wage in Staunton is $22.15, which translates into the annual salary figures mentioned above. Virginia’s overall average hourly wage is $33.68, indicating a gap in earnings between Staunton and other parts of the state.

Most Popular Jobs in Staunton, Virginia

Some of the most common occupations in Staunton are in education, healthcare, and manufacturing sectors. Popular roles include registered nurses, elementary school teachers, and various production roles. These sectors contribute to the local economy but do not reach the higher income levels seen in urban areas.

Highest Paid Jobs in Staunton, Virginia

The highest-paid occupations in Staunton include healthcare professionals, such as physicians and nurse practitioners, as well as management roles within industries like finance and education. These positions typically offer salaries that exceed $80,000 annually.

Comparison of Income Statistics

– **Staunton, Virginia**: Average annual salary is $46,080.
– **Virginia (State Average)**: Average annual salary is $70,050.
– **United States (National Average)**: Average annual salary is $61,900.

Sources:
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Virginia Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2023
Salary.com: Staunton, Virginia Salary Information

Taxes in Staunton, Virginia

Property Taxes

In Staunton, Virginia, the property tax rate is set at **$0.95 per $100 of assessed value** as of 2023. This rate applies to both residential and commercial properties. Property assessments are typically updated annually to ensure accurate valuations, and the tax rate is subject to adjustment based on budgetary needs of the city.

Sales Taxes

The total sales tax rate in Staunton is **5.3%**. This includes the **Virginia state sales tax of 4.3%** and an additional **1% local tax**. This rate applies to most goods and services purchased in the city.

Income Taxes

Virginia has a state income tax with rates that vary based on income brackets. For 2023, the rates are:
– **2%** on income up to $3,000
– **3%** on income between $3,001 and $5,000
– **5%** on income between $5,001 and $17,000
– **5.75%** on income above $17,000

Staunton residents are subject to these state income tax rates, as there are no additional local income taxes in the city.

Utility Taxes

Staunton imposes utility taxes on services such as electricity, natural gas, and telecommunications. For electricity, the residential tax rate is **$1.15 per month plus $0.01575 per kilowatt-hour**, and for natural gas, the rate is **$1.15 per month plus $0.175 per 100 cubic feet**. Telecommunications services, including phone bills, are taxed at **5% of the monthly charge**.

Hotel Occupancy Tax

Staunton has a **lodging tax of 7%** on room rentals for stays of fewer than 90 days. This is in addition to the sales tax, making hotel accommodations subject to a combined tax of **12.3%**.

Tax Payment Schedule

Real estate and personal property taxes in Staunton are due in **two installments each year**:
– **June 5th**
– **December 5th**

Penalties for Late Payment

Late payment of property taxes incurs a **10% penalty** of the unpaid tax or **$10**, whichever is greater. Additionally, interest accrues at an annual rate of **10%** starting 30 days after the due date.

Where to Pay

Taxes can be paid through various methods:
– **Online** via the City of Staunton’s payment portal.
– **By mail** to the Staunton City Treasurer’s office.
– **In person** at the Treasurer’s office located at City Hall, Staunton.

Contact Information

For questions about taxes or payment methods, you can contact the City of Staunton Treasurer’s Office:
– **Phone**: (540) 332-3833
– **Address**: 116 W. Beverley Street, Staunton, VA 24401

Comparison with State and National Averages

– **Property Tax Comparison**: Staunton’s property tax rate of **$0.95 per $100 of assessed value** is lower than the **Virginia average of $1.11 per $100**.
– **Sales Tax Comparison**: The combined **5.3%** sales tax in Staunton is lower than the **national average of 6.35%** but aligns with the **Virginia state average**.
– **Income Tax Comparison**: Virginia’s top income tax rate of **5.75%** is slightly lower than the **national average top rate of 6%** for states that impose an income tax.

Sources

Is Staunton, Virginia a Good Place to Live for Singles?

Events and Activities

Staunton, Virginia offers a range of events and activities that cater to singles. The town is known for its vibrant arts scene, particularly at the American Shakespeare Center, where live performances draw many visitors. The historic downtown area also hosts events such as the Staunton Music Festival, which could be a great way to meet people with similar interests. For more community-driven events, the Staunton Downtown Development Association provides an up-to-date calendar of activities like farmers markets, street fairs, and social mixers. Learn more about Staunton events here.

Gyms

Staying fit and meeting people in Staunton is easy with multiple gyms available throughout the city. Some popular options include Valley Fitness, a well-equipped gym offering group fitness classes and personal training, as well as Staunton Health & Fitness, which provides a range of amenities. To find more gyms in Staunton, check out this Yahoo search for gyms in Staunton, VA.

Housing

Staunton offers a variety of rental housing options that are ideal for singles. With a mix of modern apartments and charming historic homes for rent, there’s something to suit different preferences and budgets. The median rent in Staunton is approximately $950 per month, making it more affordable than the national average. To explore available rentals, visit Apartments.com for Staunton rentals.

Percentage of Single Residents

Approximately 53.2% of Staunton’s adult population is unmarried, which is higher than the national average of 48.2%. This suggests a relatively large community of singles in the area. To compare this with more data on Virginia and national averages, visit the Data USA Staunton profile.

Is Staunton, Virginia Good for Families?

Staunton, Virginia offers a relatively safe environment for families, with lower-than-average crime rates compared to the national level. The town experiences a comfortable climate with four distinct seasons, and housing costs are affordable, with the median home price being around $248,000. Employment opportunities in Staunton are diverse, with key industries in healthcare, education, and retail. The town also has a good network of schools, and its strong sense of community makes it a welcoming place for families.

Parks and Family Activities

Staunton offers a variety of parks and outdoor activities that cater to families. Gypsy Hill Park is one of the largest, with walking trails, a golf course, playgrounds, and a skate park. It also hosts family-friendly events throughout the year, such as concerts and festivals. The Frontier Culture Museum offers an educational experience for children, showcasing historic farms and hands-on exhibits. For more details on local family events and activities, check the Visit Staunton events page.

Restaurants

Staunton has a variety of family-friendly dining options, including several Italian, Mexican, BBQ, and American restaurants.

– For Italian cuisine, check this list of Italian restaurants.
– For Mexican options, visit this list of Mexican restaurants.
– BBQ lovers can find more options in this BBQ restaurant list.
– For American cuisine, explore this list of American restaurants.

Housing

The housing market in Staunton is appealing to families, with a variety of homes available for purchase. The median home price is about $248,000, making it affordable compared to both Virginia and national averages. The town offers a mix of historic homes and newer builds in family-friendly neighborhoods. You can explore home listings in Staunton on Zillow’s Staunton, VA page.

Percentage of Family Residents

Approximately 49.3% of Staunton’s population is married, which is slightly lower than the Virginia average of 51.4% but still shows a significant portion of family residents. To compare Staunton’s married population with Virginia and national statistics, visit the U.S. Census Bureau’s Staunton QuickFacts.

How are the schools in Staunton, Virginia?

Overview of Schools in Staunton

Staunton City Schools operates a total of five schools and one preschool program, emphasizing quality education in the community. The school district’s funding for the 2022-2023 academic year was approximately $21.3 million, with around 82% allocated to instruction and educational programs. The overall student enrollment is about 1,763, with a student-teacher ratio of 12:1, which allows for personalized attention in classrooms. Performance metrics reveal varying proficiency rates, with an average of 67% in reading and 56% in math across different grades. These statistics indicate a commitment to improving academic outcomes for students in the area.

Pre-K Schools

The primary preschool program in Staunton is housed at the Dixon Educational Center, which serves approximately 114 students. This program aims to prepare young children for kindergarten with a focus on social skills and early learning.

Elementary Schools

Staunton has several elementary schools, including:

Middle Schools

For middle school education, Staunton has:

  • Shelburne Middle School: Serving grades 6-8 with an enrollment of 599 students. The proficiency rates are around 43% in math and 66% in reading.

High Schools

The high school options in Staunton include:

  • Staunton High School: It serves grades 9-12 with a focus on college preparatory courses and vocational training. Academic performance varies, but efforts are being made to enhance student success.

Colleges & Universities

For higher education, students in Staunton can consider nearby institutions such as Mary Baldwin University, which offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, contributing to the educational growth of the region.

Churches in Staunton, Virginia

Conclusion: Why you should consider moving to Staunton, Virginia

Moving to Staunton, Virginia, offers an incredible blend of charm, community, and convenience that makes it an appealing choice for many. Nestled in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley, Staunton is renowned for its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and friendly atmosphere. The historic downtown area is filled with unique shops, delightful restaurants, and cultural venues, including the prestigious American Shakespeare Center, which showcases world-class performances in an intimate setting.

The cost of living in Staunton is generally lower than the national average, making it a financially attractive option for families and singles alike. With a diverse range of housing options—from historic homes to modern developments—there’s something to suit every lifestyle and budget.

Education is a priority in Staunton, with highly rated public and private schools that emphasize academic excellence and community involvement. Families will appreciate the numerous parks and recreational opportunities, fostering an active and engaged lifestyle.

Safety is another compelling reason to consider Staunton; the crime rates are below the national average, contributing to a sense of security and peace of mind for residents. The friendly community spirit is evident in local events and gatherings, creating a welcoming environment for newcomers.

In summary, Staunton, Virginia, combines a rich cultural heritage, affordability, excellent educational opportunities, and a safe, friendly environment, making it a fantastic place to call home. Whether you’re seeking a vibrant community, natural beauty, or a strong sense of belonging, Staunton is sure to exceed your expectations and enrich your life.