Charlottesville, VA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
45,437
-0.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$74,824/yr
7.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
21,610
0.2% year-over-year change

Charlottesville population

How many people live in Charlottesville

Charlottesville is home to 45,437 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.2% of Charlottesville locals are male, and 51.8% are female.

Total population
45,437
-0.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.2%
21,876
Female
51.8%
23,561
Value Percent YoY change
Male 21,876 48.2% -1.4%
Female 23,561 51.8% -0.5%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Charlottesville is 33, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.2% are children under 15, then 21.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 30.3% of the population, while another 20.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 13.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
33.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.2%
15 to 24
21.8%
25 to 44
30.3%
45 to 64
20.2%
Over 65
13.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 6,458 14.2% -0.2%
15 to 24 9,917 21.8% -4.0%
25 to 44 13,753 30.3% -1.6%
45 to 64 9,191 20.2% 1.2%
Over 65 6,118 13.5% 1.9%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Charlottesville, 87.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 5.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 6.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 66.5% of locals are Caucasian, 15.6% are African American and 7.1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 8.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
87.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
5.7%
Non-citizens
6.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 39,817 87.6% -1.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 2,592 5.7% -9.3%
Non-citizens 3,028 6.7% 12.2%
Racial breakdown
White
66.5%
Black or African American
15.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
7.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
8.5%
Other
2.3%
Value Percent
White 30,209 66.5%
Black or African American 7,103 15.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 30 0.1%
Asian 3,207 7.1%
Two or more races 3,854 8.5%
Other 1,034 2.3%

Households in Charlottesville

A peek inside Charlottesville households

Charlottesville has 19,815 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 44.9% are families, while the remaining 55.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
19,815
0.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
10,912
Family households
8,903
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 10,912 55.1% 0.6%
Family households 8,903 44.9% 0.6%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Charlottesville

The housing landscape of Charlottesville

Charlottesville's housing consists of 21,610 units, with 47% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 8.8% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 0.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
21,610
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 10,157 47%
1 unit, attached 1,900 8.8%
2 units 2,251 10.4%
3 or 4 units 916 4.2%
5 to 9 units 1,636 7.6%
10 to 19 units 1,326 6.1%
20 to 49 units 1,436 6.6%
50 or more units 1,868 8.6%
Mobile home 120 0.6%
Homes built since 2020
171
58.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Charlottesville

In Charlottesville, the median construction year is 1968. About 18.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 8.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 12.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 3,938 18.2% 8.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,209 5.6% -19.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 3,244 15% -3.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,984 13.8% -5.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,469 11.4% 13.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,823 8.4% 7.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,262 5.8% -5.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,786 8.3% -18.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 2,724 12.6% 14.4%
Built in 2020 or later 171 0.8% 58.3%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Charlottesville occupancy rates

Out of the 19,815 occupied housing units in Charlottesville, 44.2% are owner-occupied, while 55.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
19,815
0.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
11,048
Owner occupied
8,767
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 11,048 55.8% -0.3%
Owner occupied 8,767 44.2% 1.8%
Unoccupied housing units
8.3%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Charlottesville housing costs

Housing costs in Charlottesville come to a median of $1,577 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,540.

Median housing costs per month
$1,577/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Charlottesville
$1,540/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Charlottesville

Charlottesville education at a glance

About 19.1% of the population in Charlottesville went to high school, while 20.2% pursued college studies. Another 5% earned an associate degree and 25.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 28.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 719 1.9% -10.1%
High school diploma 7,254 19.1% -0.9%
College diploma 7,662 20.2% -8.5%
Associate degree 1,880 5% 5.2%
Bachelor's degree 9,777 25.8% -3.5%
Graduate degree 10,665 28.1% 6.3%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Charlottesville

How much people earn in Charlottesville

The average annual household income in Charlottesville was $115,236 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +5.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $74,824, reflecting a +7.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Charlottesville
$115,236/year
5.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Charlottesville
$74,824/year
7.2% year-over-year change

Charlottesville income by age

In Charlottesville, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $81,574. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $95,943 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $25,667, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $67,974 in earnings. Overall, 80.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $25,667 10.2%
25 - 44 $81,574 3.9%
45 - 64 $95,943 0.8%
Over 65 $67,974 5.9%
Above poverty level
33,638
Below poverty level
8,234
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 33,638 80.3% 2.4%
Below poverty level 8,234 19.7% -13.9%

Average renter income in Charlottesville

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Charlottesville, their median household income was $41,855 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 44.2%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$41,855
Rent-to-income ratio
44.2%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Charlottesville

Workforce and job types in Charlottesville

The job market in Charlottesville is powered by 23,963 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 93% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.3% run their own businesses, 45.7% are employed by private companies, and 28.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
23,963
-0.2% year-over-year change
White collar
22,292
Blue collar
1,671
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 22,292 93% 0.9%
Blue collar 1,671 7% -13.6%
Employer type
Self employees
9.3%
Private companies
45.7%
Governmental workers
28.4%
Not for profit companies
16.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,232 9.3% -7.5%
Private companies 10,959 45.7% -3.6%
Governmental workers 6,796 28.4% 5.3%
Not for profit companies 3,976 16.6% 4.9%
Unemployment rate
3.7%
-21.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Charlottesville stands at 3.7%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Charlottesville

How people get around in Charlottesville

Commuting methods vary: 57.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 11.3% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 13,444 57.4% -3.4%
Taxicab 23 0.1% -46.5%
Bus or trolleybus 1,255 5.4% 2.3%
Subway or elevated 16 0.1% N/A
Railroad 35 0.2% 45.8%
Motorcycle 46 0.2% 58.6%
Bicycle 768 3.3% 6.4%
Walk 2,644 11.3% -12.7%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Charlottesville by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
22901 37,237 16,684 $92,145 $132,632
22902 23,486 11,291 $93,463 $127,160
22903 40,372 16,287 $69,340 $122,984
22904 5,729 36 $250,001 $208,511
22911 19,107 7,996 $128,235 $150,384

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FAQs about Charlottesville demographics 

What is the total population of Charlottesville?

Charlottesville has a total population of 45,437 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by -0.9% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Charlottesville?

The gender ratio in Charlottesville is as follows:
  • 48.2% males (21,876 residents)
  • 51.8% females (23,561 residents)

What is the median age in Charlottesville?

The median age in Charlottesville is 33.1.

What is the age distribution of the population in Charlottesville?

The age distribution in Charlottesville is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.2% (6,458 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 21.8% (9,917 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 30.3% (13,753 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 20.2% (9,191 residents)
  • Over 65: 13.5% (6,118 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Charlottesville?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Charlottesville is as follows:
  • White: 66.5% (30,209 residents)
  • Black or African American: 15.6% (7,103 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (30 residents)
  • Asian: 7.1% (3,207 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 8.5% (3,854 residents)
  • Other: 2.3% (1,034 residents)

What percentage of the population in Charlottesville are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 87.6% of the population in Charlottesville.

How many housing units are there in Charlottesville?

There are 21,610 housing units in Charlottesville, reflecting a +0.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Charlottesville and what is the average household size?

Charlottesville has a total of 19,815 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Charlottesville?

Charlottesville has a median household income of $74,824, representing a +7.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Charlottesville?

The employment rate is 96.3% in Charlottesville, with a workforce of 23,963 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 93% (22,292 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 7% (1,671 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.3% (2,232 residents)
  • Private companies: 45.7% (10,959 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 28.4% (6,796 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 16.6% (3,976 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025