Renting in Charlottesville (Updated for 2025)

Here at Solutions we often get asked about rentals in the Charlottesville area.

We do not deal with rentals in our local market as it requires an agent that specializes in just rentals to be beneficial to the public. We specialize on new construction and resale.

Finding a rental in Charlottesville, VA, is competitive due to high demand and limited affordable options. Here’s a concise guide.

Where to Find Rentals: Most listings skip the local MLS

• Apartment List: 75+ units with details. Average rents: studios ~$1,760, 1-bedrooms ~$1,880, 2-bedrooms ~$2,170, 3+ bedrooms ~$2,510. Visit apartmentlist.com/va/charlottesville.
• BRAC.com: Suited for UVA students and professionals; includes moving tools. Visit brac.com.
• Local Networks: Use word-of-mouth, UVA bulletin boards, or coffee shops.
• Media: Check The Daily Progress and Cville Weekly online.

Popular Neighborhoods

• For Downtown consider Venable: Historic, near UVA, with a student vibe. Walkable to shops, but parking is limited during UVA events.

Why Is Renting Competitive?

• Demand: UVA and 43,000+ residents drive competition.
• Costs: Median rent ~$1,630, up 3% yearly. Luxury amenities in new builds inflate prices.
• Development: Zoning and costs favor high-rent projects on West Main, Elliot, and Fifth streets.

For Relocating Buyers: Renting While House Hunting

Buyers relocating to Charlottesville often rent short-term (e.g., 6 months) to explore neighborhoods. Use Apartment List or BRAC for temporary rentals. Check Facebook Marketplace for owner-direct rentals. Plan utilities and schools early as this costs and schools drive real estate prices and demand.

Renting vs. Buying

Use Bankrate’s New House Calculator to compare costs, including mortgages (~6.75%) and opportunity costs. Link: bankrate.com/real-estate/new-house-calculator.

Tips for Renters

• Act quickly on affordable units.
• Consider sharing rent for savings.
• Filter for pets or washers via quizzes.
• Contact managers online (understand that most property managers will only represent their own units).