History & Growth of Purcellville, Virginia
Purcellville, Virginia is a small town located in Loudoun County, about 47 miles northwest of Washington D.C. The town was founded in 1853 and was named after an Irish clergyman, Edward Purcell, who owned the land where the town was built. Purcellville is known for its rich history, beautiful countryside, and its proximity to the Blue Ridge Mountains.
The major industry sectors for Purcellville and the surrounding area include agriculture, technology, and tourism. The town is home to several small farms and wineries, as well as technology companies and outdoor recreation businesses. The nearby Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah National Park attract many visitors to the area, boosting the local tourism industry.
Major Attractions and Area Surrounding Purcellville, Virginia
The nearest big city to Purcellville, Virginia is Washington D.C., which is about 47 miles to the southeast. Some benefits of living in Purcellville for those who work in or near D.C. include a lower cost of living and a more laid-back, small town atmosphere.
Some major attractions and destinations in and around Purcellville, Virginia include:
- The Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah National Park, which offer opportunities for hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities
- The town's historic downtown area, which features a number of antique shops, art galleries, and local restaurants
- The W&OD Trail, a 45-mile long paved trail that is popular with hikers, bikers, and runners
- The county's many wineries and breweries, which offer tastings and tours
- The nearby towns of Leesburg and Middleburg, which offer additional shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
Schools Systems in Purcellville, Virginia
Here is a list of the public and private school systems in Purcellville, Virginia, along with their ratings and applicable scores:
Public schools
- Emerick Elementary School: 4/10 rating on GreatSchools.org, with a score of 6/10 on Niche.com
- Blue Ridge Middle School: 5/10 rating on GreatSchools.org, with a score of 6/10 on Niche.com
- Loudoun Valley High School: 8/10 rating on GreatSchools.org, with a score of 7/10 on Niche.com
Private schools
- St. Francis de Sales Catholic School: not rated on GreatSchools.org, with a score of 8/10 on Niche.com
- Faith Christian Academy: not rated on GreatSchools.org, with a score of 6/10 on Niche.com
- Hilltop Christian School: not rated on GreatSchools.org, with a score of 4/10 on Niche.com
Salaries, Crime, and Demographics of Purcellville, Virginia
According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the median household income in Purcellville, Virginia is $105,556 as of 2018. The town has a relatively low poverty rate, with just 4.8% of the population living below the poverty line.
Crime rates in Purcellville are generally low, with the town's overall crime rate being lower than the national average. According to data from the FBI's Uniform Crime Reporting program, the town had a total of 73 reported crimes in 2018, which translates to a crime rate of just under 800 crimes per 100,000 residents.
Purcellville is a predominantly white, middle-class town, with about 87% of the population being non-Hispanic white and about 13% being Hispanic or Latino. The town's population is fairly evenly split between males and females, with about 50.5% being male and 49.5% being female. The median age of the town's residents is 39.6 years.
Other Cities and Areas Near Purcellville, Virginia
Located about 15 miles southeast of Purcellville, Leesburg is a larger town with a more diverse population and a more urban feel. It is known for its historic downtown area, which features a number of charming shops, restaurants, and pubs. Leesburg is also home to a number of parks, including the Leesburg Animal Park and the Morven Park Estate and Gardens.
Winchester, Virginia
Located about 30 miles west of Purcellville, Winchester is a small city with a rich history and a thriving downtown area. It is known for its charming architecture, including its historic houses and churches, as well as its numerous antique shops and art galleries. Winchester is also home to a number of outdoor recreation opportunities, including the Winchester-Frederick County Visitors Center and the Shenandoah Valley Discovery Museum.
Located about 20 miles southwest of Purcellville, Middleburg is a small town with a wealthy and influential population. It is known for its equestrian culture, with many residents owning horses and participating in fox hunting and other equestrian activities. Middleburg is also home to a number of high-end shops, restaurants, and hotels, making it a popular destination for tourists and weekend visitors.