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Fredericksburg, VA

Frequently asked questions

Fredericksburg, VA

Fredericksburg is an independent city in Virginia, United States. As of the 2020 census, the population was 27,982. It is 48 miles (77 km) south of Washington, D.C., and 53 miles (85 km) north of Richmond. The Bureau of Economic Analysis of the United States Department of Commerce combines the city of Fredericksburg with neighboring Spotsylvania County for statistical purposes.

Located near where the Rappahannock River crosses the Atlantic Seaboard fall line, Fredericksburg was a prominent port in Virginia during the colonial era. During the Civil War, Fredericksburg, located halfway between the capitals of the opposing forces, was the site of the Battle of Fredericksburg and the Second Battle of Fredericksburg. These battles are preserved, in part, as the Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park. More than 10,000 African-Americans in the region left slavery for freedom in 1862 alone, getting behind Union lines. Tourism is a major part of the economy. Approximately 1.5 million people visit the Fredericksburg area annually, including the battlefield park, the downtown visitor center, events, museums, art shops, galleries, and many historical sites.

Fredericksburg is home to Central Park (as of 2004, the second-largest mall on the East Coast). The Spotsylvania Towne Centre is located in Spotsylvania County, adjacent to the city. Major employers include the University of Mary Washington (named for the mother of George Washington, who lived here), Mary Washington Healthcare, and GEICO. Many Fredericksburg area residents commute to work by car, bus, and rail to Washington, D.C., and Richmond, as well as Fairfax, Prince William, and Arlington counties.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 10.5 square miles (27.2 km²), 10.4 square miles (27.0 km²) of which is land and 0.1 square miles (0.2 km²), or 0.67%, of which is water. 

The city is part of the boundary between the Piedmont and Tidewater regions, and as such is located on the fall line, as evident on the Rappahannock River. US 1, US 17, and I-95 all pass through the city, which is located 53 miles (85 km) south of downtown Washington, D.C.

The city is bounded on the north and east by the Rappahannock River; across the river is Stafford County. The city is bounded on the south and west by Spotsylvania County.

Health and wellness are important for the residents of Fredericksburg. Relax and rejuvenate with Massage Envy's professional massage services. Choose from various massage techniques and wellness enhancements at multiple locations in Virginia. Experience therapeutic massage at Elements Massage. Discover personalized treatments to relieve stress, pain, and tension for a healthier body and mind. Restore balance and wellness at Massage Heights. Enjoy customized massages, skincare treatments, and aromatherapy for a rejuvenating experience. Unwind with massages and facials at Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa. Experience relaxation and skincare services in a tranquil spa environment. Discover the benefits of therapeutic massage at LaVida Massage of Fredericksburg. Experience customized treatments to improve mobility, reduce pain, and promote overall well-being. Advanced Family Chiropractic offers personalized chiropractic care for individuals of all ages. Their services include spinal adjustments, corrective exercises, nutritional counseling, and lifestyle advice to promote overall wellness and pain relief.

Top sites in Fredericksburg, VA are Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park, James Monroe Museum and Memorial Library, and Kenmore.

Population: 29,992 (2024). ZIP code: 22401. Area code: 540. Elevation: 59 ft (18 m). Area: 10.52 sq mi (27.24 km²).

FAQs

Why is Fredericksburg, VA famous?

With nearly 200,000 combatants—the greatest number of any Civil War engagement—Fredericksburg was one of the largest and deadliest battles of the Civil War. It featured the first opposed river crossing in American military history as well as the Civil War's first instance of urban combat. Confederate victory. The Union Army of the Potomac suffered more than 12,500 casualties. Lee’s Confederate army counted approximately 6,000 losses. The Federals retreated, losing an opportunity to advance further into Confederate territory and capture the capital of Richmond.

Is Fredericksburg, VA a good place to live?

Is Fredericksburg the right city for you? This city has some great benefits, such as parks and other natural spots, good food, a rich history, a thriving economy, and lots more. However, there's also the cost of living and high tax rates to consider before making the move. 

How expensive is Fredericksburg, VA?

Fredericksburg is part of the Washington-Arlington-Alexandria DC--MD-WV Metro Div. metro area, which is ranked 16 out of 273 cities across the US in terms of cost of living. According to C2ER (the Council for Community and Economic Research), the cost of living in Fredericksburg is estimated to be 134.5% of the national average. This makes it one of the more expensive cities in the US.

Sources

City of Fredericksburg

Wikipedia

Fly Homes

Home and Money

Battlefields

Massage Envy's

Elements Massage

Massage Heights

Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa

LaVida Massage of Fredericksburg

Advanced Family Chiropractic

Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park

James Monroe Museum and Memorial Library

Kenmore

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