Waynesboro, VA Homes For Rent

Homes for Rent in Waynesboro, VA: What You Need to Know

Waynesboro in north-central Virginia earned the nickname Iron Cross in the 19th century when it became the junction of two railroad lines. The city lies in the Shenandoah Valley along the South River.

Things to Do in Waynesboro, VA

The P. Buckley Moss Gallery is owned by the artist Patricia Buckley, Waynesboro’s favorite resident. The gallery contains the most extensive collection of her artwork, ornaments, and other collectibles. Buckley is a New York native of Irish and Italian descent who found her inspiration when she moved to the Shenandoah Valley. Her art showcases the valley’s pastoral scenes and Amish lifestyle. Visit a unique hospital at the Wildlife Center of Virginia, where reptiles, mammals, amphibians, and birds that need medical care are nurtured. The center has treated more than 85,000 wild animals since its founding in 1982. Through its educational programs, the center has reached out to about 1.5 million school children and adults across Virginia.

Job Opportunities

Advanced manufacturing, education, and health care industries serve as the backbone of the local economy. Companies benefit from Waynesboro’s Enterprise Zones, designed to encourage new development and expansion in certain areas by offering local, state, and federal tax and cash grant incentives. Waynesboro is an independent city located in Augusta county, meaning it’s not governed by the county. Top employers in Waynesboro and Augusta County include Hershey Chocolate of Virginia, Augusta County School Board, McKee Foods Corp., Augusta Medical Center, and Target Corp. 

Weather and Climate

Virginia may not be as prone to hurricanes as Florida or Texas, but it has gotten its fair share over the years. In 1969, Hurricane Camille, a category five hurricane, dumped up to 30 inches of rain in Waynesboro and central Virginia. Parts of Waynesboro were under eight feet of water, forcing the rescue of about 300 people.

Cost of Living

Small cities like Waynesboro (population: 22,630) offer many benefits, beginning with affordability. Its cost of living rate and food costs are 9.9% and 28.8% lower than the national average respectively. Housing cost is 11.1% lower than the national average, with median gross rent at $821. Also, the Old Dominion doesn’t tax Social Security benefits. Virginia charges 2% to 5.75% in income tax and 5.3% to 7% in sales tax.

Know Your Neighborhoods

Residents praise Waynesboro’s beautiful surroundings and small-town charm, plus it offers access to Charlottesville, 28 miles away. A significant number of residents (42%) rent. While Waynesboro has good public schools, Fishersville and Verona boast of higher-ranked schools.