History and Growth of Prince William County, Virginia
Prince William County, Virginia is known for its proximity to Washington, D.C., abundance of recreational activities, and diverse range of housing options.
Prince William County, Virginia was established in 1731, and is named after Prince William Augustus, Duke of Cumberland, who was the son of King George II of Great Britain. The county has a long and varied history, with early settlements dating back to the 17th century. Over the years, the county has experienced significant growth and development, particularly in the latter half of the 20th century. Today, Prince William County is home to a diverse population and a thriving economy, with a mix of urban and suburban areas and a wide range of industries.
Major Attractions and Surrounding Area
The nearest big city to Prince William County, Virginia is Washington, D.C. This proximity provides a number of benefits for residents of Prince William County, including access to a wide range of cultural, educational, and employment opportunities. Washington, D.C. is home to a number of world-class museums, universities, and hospitals, as well as numerous government agencies and international organizations. In addition, the city is served by three major airports, making it easy for residents to travel both domestically and internationally. The proximity to Washington, D.C. also makes Prince William County an attractive location for commuters who work in the city.
There are many attractions, destinations, and draws to living in Prince William County, Virginia, including:
- Proximity to Washington, D.C. and other major employment centers
- Diverse range of housing options, including new construction communities and established neighborhoods
- Abundance of recreational activities, including parks, golf courses, and water activities on the Potomac River and nearby lakes
- Cultural attractions, such as the Hylton Performing Arts Center and the Manassas National Battlefield Park
- Educational opportunities, including George Mason University and Northern Virginia Community College
- Access to major transportation hubs, including Washington Dulles International Airport and several major highways
School Systems in Prince William County, Virginia
Prince William County, Virginia has both public and private school systems. Here is a list of some of the school systems in the county, along with their ratings and applicable scores:
Public school systems:
- Prince William County Public Schools: The Prince William County Public Schools system is the largest school division in the county, and serves over 90,000 students. The school division has received a GreatSchools Rating of 6 out of 10.
- Manassas City Public Schools: The Manassas City Public Schools system serves students in the city of Manassas, and has received a GreatSchools Rating of 8 out of 10.
Private school systems:
- Potomac School: Potomac School is a private, independent school in Dumfries, and has received a GreatSchools Rating of 10 out of 10.
- Bishop Ireton High School: Bishop Ireton High School is a private, Catholic school in Alexandria, and has received a GreatSchools Rating of 8 out of 10.
It's worth noting that school ratings can vary and may not necessarily reflect the quality of education at a particular school. It is always a good idea to do your own research and visit schools in person to determine which one is the best fit for your child.
Salaries, Crime, and Demographics of Prince William County, Virginia
According to data from the FBI's Uniform Crime Reporting program, the overall crime rate in Prince William County, Virginia is lower than the national average for similar communities. In 2019, the county had a property crime rate of 18.3 per 1,000 residents, and a violent crime rate of 3.2 per 1,000 residents. These rates are lower than the national averages of 23.5 and 3.7 per 1,000 residents, respectively.
According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the median household income in Prince William County was $108,787 in 2019. This is higher than the national median of $68,703. The county has a diverse population, with a mix of urban and suburban areas and a wide range of industries.
Demographically, Prince William County is home to a diverse population of over 500,000 people. The county has a relatively young population, with a median age of 35.6. The largest racial or ethnic group in the county is white, at 62.4% of the population, followed by Hispanic or Latino at 23.9%, and Black or African American at 12.3%.
References:
FBI Uniform Crime Reporting program: https://www.fbi.gov/services/cjis/ucr
U.S. Census Bureau: https://www.census.gov/
Prince William County government: https://www.pwcgov.org/government/dept/demographics/Pages/default.aspx
Other Cities and Areas Near Prince William County, Virginia
Here are a few cities or areas that are outside the boundaries of Prince William County, Virginia, but still nearby:
Fairfax County, Virginia:
Fairfax County is located to the north of Prince William County, and is known for its excellent schools, diverse range of housing options, and abundance of recreational activities. One notable comparison to Prince William County is that both have a close proximity to Washington, D.C.
Loudoun County:
Loudoun County is located to the west of Prince William County, and is known for its strong economy and beautiful countryside. The county is home to a number of wineries and breweries, and is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. One notable comparison to Prince William County is that both have a mix of urban and suburban areas.
Fredericksburg, Virginia:
Fredericksburg is located to the south of Prince William County, and is known for its rich history and charming downtown area. The city is home to a number of museums and historical sites, and is a popular destination for tourists. One notable comparison to Prince William County is that both are located within easy driving distance of Washington, D.C.
