Few places in the United States are as rich in American history and culture as Virginia. Suburban Fredericksburg, a town of 21,273 people, is a modern town that remains deeply connected to America's roots.  Yet Fredericksburg is not all historical landmarks. The town may be minutes from the birthplace of George Washington, but growth, progress and history come together to make Fredericksburg a lively and fun place to be.

Location
 

Because it is 50 miles south of Washington, DC, many consider Fredericksburg to be a suburb of the capitol. It is also 55 miles north of Richmond. Fredericksburg sits on the Rappahannock River on the border between the Piedmont and Tidewater regions. It is an independent city and thus does not belong to a county. Its elevation is 59 feet above sea level.

Demographics

According to the 2000 Census, 30 is the median age in Fredericksburg. About 21% of households had children, and 31% contained a married couple. The median income for Fredericksburg households was $37,486 in 2006. According to the Census Bureau in 2004, 14.4% of the population was below the poverty level. Just over 30% of Fredericksburg residents had a bachelor's degree or higher here in 2000; 80.2% were high school graduates. In 2000, there were 1,833 people per square mile in Fredericksburg, according to the Census Bureau. The population here grew by more than 10% between 2000 and 2006.

Transportation

As part of a metropolitan area that is known for its public transportation, Fredericksburg offers affordable, easy access to other parts of the Washington, DC metropolitan area. Each ride with FRED, the town's public transit system, costs a quarter, or $15 for a monthly pass. Travel by car around the area is  convenient since I-95, US-1, and US-17 are all easily accessible. 

Education

Here you can choose from a wide variety of city-run public as well as private schools. There are 15 students to every teacher here. Fredericksburg is home to historic Mary Washington University, which is named for George Washington's sister. Originally a college for women, it became coed in 1970.

Climate

The climate is best described as temperate. July averages highs of 90 degrees while average January lows dip down into the 20 degree range. The highest recorded temperature here was 106 degrees (1953), while the lowest was -12 degrees (1940). Average monthly precipitation ranges between three and four inches. The wettest month in Fredericksburg is July.

Things to do

Fredericksburg is a mecca for history buffs. Nearby historical highlights include the George Washington Birthplace National Monument just 38 miles east of Fredericksburg. Across the Rappahannock is Ferry Farm, where George Washington spent time during his childhood. The Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park commemorates the area's Civil War battlegrounds. A walk around the downtown area reveals a 40-block national historic area containing over 350 buildings dating back two and three hundred years. Yet there is more to Fredericksburg than historical sites. As part of a booming region, Fredericksburg also offers restaurants and shopping with a hint of southern charm despite being situated amid a bustling metropolitan area.

Famous Fredericksburgians

George Washington is probably the most famous person to have lived here. Revolutionary War icon John Paul Jones also hails from here. Florence King, author of Confessions of a Failed Southern Lady, retired and currently lives in Fredericksburg.

Rich history, southern charm, and easy living

Whether you chose Fredericksburg because of its rich history, southern charm, or proximity to Washington, DC, you came to the right place. As part of one of the fastest-growing areas of the country, this is the perfect time to think about moving here.