Per Yahoo and Sperling’s “Best” list –

“Charlottesville enjoys clean air and water, and pleasant weather year-round, highlighted by especially beautiful fall foliage. Nearby Shenandoah National Park offers a wealth of recreation opportunities. Charlottesville is home to the University of Virginia, which strengthens the area’s healthy economy by providing steady jobs and a wealth of amenities and entertainment. Homes are not cheap (median home price $225,000), but the cost of living is manageable. The city’s low unemployment rate and significant recent job growth promise continued prosperity. As more and more people learn about this year’s best city, Charlottesville may find staying affordable and sprawl-free is its greatest challenge!”

1 – The above reads like it was written in 2004, the year “Charlottesville” was rated the “best place to live in the USA“. (here as a PDF in case that link dies)

2 – “Median Home Price” – in the above story is likely inclusive of all home prices and types in all of Charlottesville.

3 – “Charlottesville” probably means “Charlottesville, Albemarle, Greene, Fluvanna, Nelson and parts of Louisa.

4 – I can’t wait for the leaves to change this year. Fall is the best time of the year in Charlottesville.