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Fredericksburg City

county

Fredericksburg, Virginia, is an independent city strategically located in Northern Virginia, approximately midway between Washington, D.C., and Richmond. As of 2020, the population was 27,982. Fredericksburg is known for its rich history, particularly its significance during the Civil War, and its role as a colonial trading hub. The city offers a blend of historic charm and modern amenities, making it a desirable place to live and visit. The economy of Fredericksburg is diverse, with major employment sectors including healthcare, retail, and education. Key institutions such as the University of Mary Washington and Mary Washington Healthcare are major employers in the area. The city also benefits from its proximity to several military installations and the U.S. government, contributing to the regional economy. Tourism is a significant part of the economy, drawing approximately 1.5 million visitors annually to its historical sites and attractions. Fredericksburg's distinctive character is shaped by its well-preserved historical architecture, its location on the Rappahannock River, and its numerous historical landmarks. The city's commitment to preserving its past while fostering a vibrant present contributes to its unique quality of life.

Fredericksburg City, Virginia

Overview
Classification
City
FIPS Code
51-29744
Country
United States
County
Fredericksburg City
Geography
Region
Northeastern Virginia
Elevation
59 ft
Total Area
10.5 sq mi
Land Area
10.4 sq mi
Water Area
0.1 sq mi
Latitude
38.301806
Longitude
-77.47083
Climate
The city is part of the boundary between the Piedmont and Tidewater regions.
Notable Features
Rappahannock River · Atlantic Seaboard fall line
Neighboring Areas
Spotsylvania County · Stafford County
Demographics
Population (2020)
27,982
Est. Population (2024)
28,873
Median Age
31
Median Income
$85,368
Poverty Rate
16.4%
Owner-Occupied
41.6%
Racial & Ethnic Composition
The racial makeup of Fredericksburg is 55.6% White, 19.8% Black or African American, 12.6% Hispanic, 4% Asian, and smaller percentages for other races.
Governance
Government Type
Council-Manager
Governing Body
City Council
Body Size
7 members
School District
Fredericksburg City Public Schools
Municipal Services
Police · Fire · Public Works · Parks & Recreation · Library
Economy
Unemployment Rate
6.1%
Economic Profile
Historic Downtown · Tourism · Regional healthcare center
Employment Sectors
Health Care & Social Assistance · Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services · Retail Trade
Major Employers
University of Mary Washington · Mary Washington Healthcare · GEICO
Education
Schools
5
Students
3,575
Teachers
237
Student-Teacher Ratio
15:1
School Districts
Fredericksburg City Public Schools
Colleges & Universities
University of Mary Washington · Germanna Community College
Infrastructure
Transportation
I-95 · US 1 · US 17 · Virginia Railway Express (VRE) · Amtrak
Utilities
Municipal water · Wastewater Treatment Plant
Major Facilities
Mary Washington Hospital
Recreation
Outdoor Access
Yes
Major Recreation Areas
Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park · Motts Run Reservoir Recreation Area · Alum Spring Park
Parks & Trails
Canal Path · Rappahannock River Heritage Trail · Virginia Central Railway Trail
History
Founded
1728
Incorporated
1781
Named After
Frederick, Prince of Wales
Historical Significance
Fredericksburg played a vital role in Virginia's economy and political life during the colonial period and was a strategically important site during the American Revolution and Civil War.
Key Events
Establishment as a port in 1728 · American Revolution · Battle of Fredericksburg (Civil War)