Roanoke River White Water Park
Late 2026This mile-long project through Wasena introduces Virginia’s first in-river surf features, significantly boosting property values and desirability for outdoor enthusiasts looking near the downtown corridor.
All Areas
Independent City, Virginia
Roanoke, Virginia
Your new home in the Star City puts you just 10 minutes from the brand-new 2026 Roanoke River White Water Park. Discover why Roanoke is Virginia’s premier destination for mountain views, world-class healthcare, and innovative urban growth.
About Roanoke
Known as the Star City of the South, Roanoke is the largest city in western Virginia. Surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, it offers world-class hiking, a thriving downtown, excellent healthcare facilities, and a growing food and brewery scene.
Why Roanoke
What Makes It Special
01
Outdoor Capital
The Appalachian Trail runs right through the metro area. McAfee Knob, Dragon's Tooth, and Carvins Cove offer legendary hiking.
02
Thriving Downtown
The City Market, one of the oldest continuously operating farmers markets in Virginia, anchors a vibrant downtown.
03
Craft Beer Scene
Over a dozen craft breweries including Deschutes, Big Lick, and Starr Hill make Roanoke a destination for beer enthusiasts.
04
Healthcare Hub
Carilion Clinic and Lewis-Gale Medical Center provide world-class medical care and are major regional employers.
05
Blue Ridge Parkway Access
Direct access to America's favorite scenic drive with overlooks, trails, and the Blue Ridge Music Center nearby.
06
Affordable Living
Significantly lower cost of living than Northern Virginia or Richmond, with historic neighborhoods full of character.
2026 Updates
What's New in Roanoke
Fresh developments, openings, and projects shaping the Roanoke market this year.
Wasena Bridge Replacement
Summer 2026Restoring a critical artery between downtown and Southwest Roanoke, this new bridge includes safer pedestrian lanes and direct Greenway connectivity for local commuters and residents.
Preston Park Elementary School
August 2026Modern school facilities and the resulting attendance zone rebalancing make the 24012 zip code a strategic buy for families seeking long-term residential appreciation and modern infrastructure.
Munters Data Center Expansion
Mid 2026This high-tech expansion drives housing demand in Botetourt County and North Roanoke, attracting a new influx of technical professionals to the local real estate market.
USA Cycling Endurance National Championships
2026Hosting this national championship validates the area’s quality of life and active city branding, supporting long-term property appreciation and interest from regional fitness enthusiasts.
Wasena Skatepark and Pump Track
2026This recreational hub enhances neighborhood livability and family appeal, providing essential amenities that attract first-time buyers and active families to the Southwest City area.
Local Life
Things to Do in Roanoke
01
Roanoke Star
Visit the world's largest man-made star atop Mill Mountain for panoramic views of the city and the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains.
02
Grandin Theatre
Catch a classic film or indie hit at this historic 1930s cinema that serves as the cultural heart of the village.
03
Roanoke River Greenway
Cycle or walk along miles of paved trails connecting diverse neighborhoods with local parks, breweries, and the beautiful Roanoke River waterfront.
04
McAfee Knob
Hike the most photographed spot on the Appalachian Trail to see breathtaking 270-degree views of the valley and surrounding mountain ridges.
05
Taubman Museum of Art
Explore contemporary American art housed in a striking architectural masterpiece that anchors the downtown Roanoke cultural and fine arts district.
06
Virginia Museum of Transportation
Discover the region's rich rail heritage through an extensive collection of steam locomotives and vintage automobiles in the downtown rail yard.
07
Roanoke City Market
Browse Virginia’s oldest continuous outdoor market for fresh local produce, handmade crafts, and seasonal plants in the historic downtown market square.
08
Center in the Square
Experience multiple museums and an aquarium all under one roof, providing educational entertainment and rooftop views of the downtown area.
Education
Schools in the Roanoke Area
Preston Park Elementary
PublicA brand-new facility anchoring the Northside revitalization and modernizing the district's primary education.
Patrick Henry High School
PublicA major public high school known for its diverse academic programs and central location in the Grandin area.
Roanoke College
CollegeA private liberal arts college in nearby Salem offering a scenic campus and strong community ties.
Hollins University
UniversityA private university specializing in women's education and renowned for its creative writing and equestrian programs.
Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine
UniversityA premier medical university driving research and high-income residency demand in the South Roanoke medical district.
Community High School
PrivateA private institution in downtown Roanoke focused on arts and progressive secondary education for local students.
Where to Live
Roanoke Neighborhoods
South Roanoke
An upscale, walkable neighborhood featuring historic homes and immediate proximity to the Carilion Clinic medical campus.
Grandin Village
A vibrant community known for its independent shops, historic theatre, and strong sense of local identity.
Old Southwest
A historic district filled with grand Victorian homes and bungalows near the downtown business core.
Wasena
A trendy area experiencing growth due to the Greenway, local breweries, and the new river park.
Cave Spring
A popular suburban enclave in the county offering top-rated schools and modern single-family residential subdivisions.
Common Questions
Roanoke Real Estate FAQ
Is Roanoke VA a good place to live in 2026?
Roanoke is a top choice for buyers seeking mountain views and urban amenities at a lower cost than Richmond or Northern Virginia. With a median home price around $275,000 and world-class outdoor recreation like the new white water park, it offers an exceptional quality of life.
How will the 2026 school redistricting affect Roanoke home values?
The opening of Preston Park Elementary in 2026 triggered Phase 1 of attendance zone changes. Neighborhoods moving into updated school zones often see increased demand. We recommend reviewing the latest Roanoke City Public Schools boundary maps to understand how specific street addresses are impacted before you buy.
What are the best neighborhoods in Roanoke for walkability?
Grandin Village and South Roanoke are the premier choices for walkable living. Residents in Grandin enjoy proximity to the historic theatre and local co-op, while South Roanoke offers direct access to the Greenway and the Carilion Clinic campus, making both areas highly resilient in the real estate market.
What is the real estate market forecast for Roanoke in 2026?
Inventory remains the primary driver, with 2025 seeing an average of 16 days on market. For 2026, we expect price appreciation of 3-5 percent as new infrastructure projects and the Carilion expansion continue to draw professional healthcare workers and remote employees to the Roanoke Valley region.
Are property taxes higher in Roanoke City or Roanoke County?
Roanoke City typically has a higher real estate tax rate, currently at 1.22 per 100 dollars of assessed value. However, the City provides more municipal services like curbside leaf collection and trash pickup. Roanoke County rates are lower, but residents may pay separately for certain utility services.
What new construction is coming to Roanoke in 2026?
Major residential developments like East Pointe and new single-family phases in Botetourt’s Ashley Plantation are meeting the 2026 demand. Buyers are also looking toward North Roanoke for new builds near the upcoming Preston Park Elementary, which is revitalizing the surrounding residential inventory and attracting families.
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