Staunton, Virginia delivers exceptional homebuying value with median home prices at $276,000-$278,000 (37% below national average), a thriving historic downtown, and one of the fastest-moving real estate markets in Virginia—homes sell in just 15 days on average.
Located in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley with access to I-81, I-64, and proximity to Charlottesville (35 minutes) and Harrisonburg (25 minutes), Staunton combines small-city charm with strong appreciation (8-11.7% in the past year) and diverse financing options including FHA, VA, USDA, and conventional loans.
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$276K-$278K median vs $430K national (37% lower)
Beautifully preserved downtown, Wharf District, walkable neighborhoods
8-11.7% year-over-year (healthy, sustainable growth)
15-day average market (homes move fast)
Mary Baldwin University, Augusta Health, diverse downtown economy
I-81 corridor, 35 min to Charlottesville, 25 min to Harrisonburg, 2 hours to Richmond/DC
| Loan Type | Rate Range |
|---|---|
| 30-Year Fixed Conventional | 6.28%-6.40% |
| 15-Year Fixed Conventional | 5.49%-5.72% |
| 30-Year FHA | 6.04%-6.23% |
| 30-Year VA | 7.62%-7.70% |
| 30-Year USDA | 5.56%-6.39% |
Staunton Context: With home values 37% below national average, even current rates (6-7%) still deliver affordability vs. most U.S. markets.
| Loan Type | Down Payment | Monthly Payment | Income Needed | Total Cash |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FHA 3.5% | $9,660 | $2,101 | $90,000 | $14,660-$17,660 |
| Conventional 5% | $13,800 | $2,113 | $90,600 | $18,800-$21,800 |
| Conventional 10% | $27,600 | $2,006 | $86,000 | $32,600-$35,600 |
| Conventional 20% | $55,200 | $1,697 | $72,700 | $60,200-$63,200 |
| VA (military) | $0 | $2,295 | $98,400 | $5,000-$8,000 |
| USDA (eligible) | $0 | $1,942 | $83,200 | $5,000-$7,000 |
Key Insight: Staunton's $276K median is accessible to $86K-$90K income households with 5-10% down, or $72K with 20% down.
Low Down Payment Option
Staunton Median Example ($276K):
Zero Down for Military
Staunton Median Example ($276K):
Zero Down for Eligible Areas
Staunton USDA:
Some surrounding Augusta County areas eligible. Central Staunton NOT eligible.
Example ($260K eligible area):
Flexible Traditional Financing
Staunton Median Example ($276K, 10% down):
Character: Victorian homes, walkable, restaurants, galleries, Shakespeare theater
Typical Homes: 1,500-2,500 sq ft, built 1880-1930, renovated or original character
Best For: Downtown lifestyle lovers, arts enthusiasts, professionals, empty nesters
Financing: Conventional preferred (older homes may need inspection attention)
Character: Revitalized industrial area, breweries, restaurants, lofts, modern townhomes
Typical Homes: Lofts, condos, townhomes, 1,200-1,800 sq ft
Best For: Young professionals, couples, walkable urban lifestyle seekers
Financing: FHA/conventional work well, ensure condo is FHA-approved
Character: Residential neighborhoods near Gypsy Hill Park (golf, pool, trails)
Typical Homes: 3BR/2BA, 1,400-2,000 sq ft, 1950s-1990s construction
Best For: Families, park lovers, practical buyers
Financing: All loan types work (FHA, VA, conventional, USDA some areas)
Character: Established residential neighborhoods, mix of eras
Typical Homes: 3BR/2BA, 1,200-1,800 sq ft, varied construction dates
Best For: First-time buyers, families, budget-conscious
Financing: FHA ideal for this price range
Character: Suburban/rural, larger lots, newer construction possible
Typical Homes: 3-4BR, 1,600-2,400 sq ft, varied ages
Best For: USDA-eligible buyers seeking $0 down, land/space lovers
Financing: USDA perfect if income under $119,850
Rate: $0.91 per $100 of assessed value (recently increased from $0.89)
Reassessment: Every 2 years (odd-numbered years)
Due Dates: 75% due June 20, 25% due December 5
Staunton Context: Slightly lower than Virginia average ($0.89 state median effective rate), competitive with regional cities.
With home values up 8-11.7% in past year and substantial appreciation since 2020:
Example: Bought Staunton home 2020 at $220K, now worth $290K+ = $70K+ equity buildup
Complete Refinance Guide →Strategy: Compare 3-5 lenders. Online lenders often 0.25-0.50% lower rates. Local lenders provide face-to-face service.
Complete Lender Guide →With 8-11.7% recent appreciation and $276K median:
Long-Term Value: Staunton's historic character, arts scene, valley location, and I-81 corridor position create sustained demand.
At $276K-$278K median (37% below national average), 15-day average market, and 8-11.7% recent appreciation, Staunton combines exceptional value with strong growth potential. FHA financing ($9,660 down) makes median homes accessible to $90K income households, while conventional 10% down ($27,600) works for $86K earners. The ultra-competitive market requires pre-approval and immediate action when homes list, but rewards buyers with walkable historic charm, valley beauty, arts culture, and equity growth in one of Virginia's most distinctive small cities.
Get matched with lenders who understand the unique Staunton market. Compare rates, get pre-approved, and shop with confidence in this ultra-competitive 15-day market.
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Last updated: November 26, 2025
About Staunton, VA: Staunton is an independent city in the Shenandoah Valley with a population of approximately 25,000. The median home price as of November 2025 is $276,000-$278,000, representing 37% below the national average. The market is ultra-competitive with homes selling in 15 days on average. Property taxes are $0.91 per $100 of assessed value. Major employers include Mary Baldwin University, Augusta Health, and a diverse downtown economy. Staunton offers exceptional affordability, historic charm, strong appreciation (8-11.7%), and quality of life.
Disclaimer: This guide provides general mortgage information for Staunton, Virginia as of November 2025. Mortgage rates, programs, and requirements change frequently. This website generates leads for mortgage lenders and receives compensation for referrals. Always verify current rates, terms, and eligibility with licensed mortgage lenders. Compare offers from multiple lenders before choosing. Consult with mortgage professionals and financial advisors before making home financing decisions.