James Madison University

Harrisonburg, VA

Background Image

James Madison University - Harrisonburg, VA

Area Guide

Share Guide

Experience the unique culture surrounding this prestigious Virginia university

Public College Town Urban Dukes

James Madison University is regularly lauded as one of the best public universities in the south, cultivating an environment that encourages innovation and creativity as well as strong traditions and culture. Students at JMU account for around one-third of the total population in Harrisonburg, and the university is literally and figuratively the center of the community. The small-town atmosphere surrounding the campus means you’ll soon pick out your favorite go-to local spots, whether it’s breakfast at Mr. J’s or giant slices at Sorrentino’s Pizza.

Perched in the northern Virginia foothills, you’re just minutes away from the region’s stunningly gorgeous natural landscape… be sure to hit the road on Skyline Drive at least once during the autumn for the prettiest foliage this side of Vermont. The rental options around the campus come in a variety of price ranges with many options available to suit any budget. Apartments, condos, and rental houses near the north side of campus offer convenient access to both the main university buildings and Downtown Harrisonburg, while the neighborhoods on the east side of campus will be more convenient to the nearby shopping centers.

Rent Trends

As of February 2025, the average apartment rent in Harrisonburg, VA is $840 for a studio, $1,162 for one bedroom, $1,473 for two bedrooms, and $2,017 for three bedrooms. Apartment rent in Harrisonburg has increased by 0.7% in the past year.

  • Studio

  • 250 sq ft

    Average Sq Ft

  • $840/month

    Average Rent

  • 1 BR

  • 665 sq ft

    Average Sq Ft

  • $1,162/month

    Average Rent

  • 2 BR

  • 1,010 sq ft

    Average Sq Ft

  • $1,473/month

    Average Rent

  • 3 BR

  • 1,341 sq ft

    Average Sq Ft

  • $2,017/month

    Average Rent

Transportation

46

Car-Dependent

out of 100 WalkScore® Rating

This area is considered a car-dependent area and most errands will require a car.

24

Some Transit

out of 100 TransitScore® Rating

You'll likely want a car when living in this area since it has few transit options.

42

Somewhat Bikeable

out of 100 BikeScore® Rating

You might be able to find places to ride your bike in this area, but you’ll most likely want your car for most errands.

Schools

Spotswood Elementary

Public

Grades PK-5

448 Students

4
out of 10

Pleasant Valley Elementary

Public

Grades PK-5

229 Students

4
out of 10

Smithland Elementary

Public

Grades PK-5

730 Students

3
out of 10

Bluestone Elementary

Public

Grades K-5

550 Students

3
out of 10

Stone Spring Elementary

Public

Grades PK-5

557 Students

2
out of 10

Skyline Middle

Public

Grades 6-8

697 Students

2
out of 10

Thomas Harrison Middle

Public

Grades 6-8

693 Students

2
out of 10
Rating Unavailable

Harrisonburg High

Public

Grades 9-12

1,951 Students

3
out of 10
Rating Unavailable

Points of Interest

Parks and Recreation

  • John C. Wells Planetarium
  • Edith J. Carrier Arboretum
  • Harrisonburg Children's Museum
  • Paul State Forest
  • Massanutten Resort

Airports

  • Charlottesville-Albemarle

Top Apartments Near James Madison University

Houses Near James Madison University

Property Management Companies

Search Nearby Rentals