A walkable Main Street, trains rumbling through the center of town, and a college campus that brings year-round cultural events. Ashland is the small town that has it all.
Market Overview
Ashland calls itself the 'Center of the Universe,' and its residents would not have it any other way. This small town, anchored by Randolph-Macon College and bisected by active railroad tracks, offers a quality of life that is increasingly hard to find. The walkable downtown, active community events, and affordable housing make Ashland a hidden gem just 15 miles north of Richmond.
Market Insight: Ashland offers some of the strongest value in the metro area for buyers seeking walkability and character. The market is smaller and slower-moving than suburban areas, which means less competition and more negotiation opportunities.
A Day in Ashland
Morning
Coffee at the local cafe on Railroad Avenue, wave to the train conductor as the morning freight rolls through, or a walk around the Randolph-Macon campus.
Afternoon
Lunch at Ironhorse (literally trackside), browse the antique shops on England Street, or take the kids to the town park.
Evening
Dinner at the Caboose Brewing Company, a lecture or performance at Randolph-Macon, or front-porch time watching the world go by.
Weekend
Ashland Strawberry Faire in June, the Christmas parade, Randolph-Macon homecoming, or a day trip to Kings Dominion just up the road.
Why Live in Ashland
Walkable Downtown
A charming main street with locally owned shops, restaurants, and the famous Ironhorse restaurant right on the train tracks.
Randolph-Macon College
The liberal arts college adds cultural events, lectures, and an academic community to the town's character.
Train Watching
CSX freight trains and Amtrak passenger trains run through the center of town, adding to its unique character.
Affordable Charm
Victorian homes and small-town living at prices well below Richmond's urban neighborhoods.
Local Expertise Matters in Ashland
Ashland's small inventory means homes can be hard to find, and well-positioned properties often sell through word of mouth before they ever hit the market. Having an agent connected to the Ashland community opens doors that listings sites cannot.
Housing in Ashland
Common property types: Victorian Homes, Bungalows, New Construction, College-Area Rentals
Featured Property Types
Victorian Homes
$250K - $450KCharming late 19th and early 20th century homes near downtown with covered porches, original woodwork, and walkable convenience.
Suburban Homes
$225K - $400KTraditional homes in quiet neighborhoods just outside the downtown core with larger yards and family-friendly streets.
New Development
$300K - $500KNew construction communities on the outskirts of town offering modern amenities while maintaining Ashland's character.
Schools in Ashland
| School | Type | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Henry Clay Elementary | Public | Good |
| Liberty Middle School | Public | Good |
| Patrick Henry High School | Public | Good |