Centreville Apartments and Rentals

The historic Fairfax County community of Centreville is only a short drive from Washington, D.C., but it’s always been a world away, with a rural atmosphere that makes it a calming escape from the nation’s capital. Celebrated since the 18th century as one of Northern Virginia’s most picturesque areas, Centreville has delighted residents for generations and been lauded as one of the country’s best places to live.

People looking for apartments for rent in Centreville will love its wooded surroundings, its strong sense of history and its access to all the conveniences of the D.C. metro area.

Dating back to a 1792 charter, Centreville is one of the oldest communities in Fairfax County, with a rich history that can still be felt today. Centreville and its surroundings rose to particular prominence during the Civil War. The Centreville area served as a major Confederate camp - some fortifications are still visible - and the war had its start at the nearby Battle of Manassas.

These days, the community of slightly more than 70,000 people is considerably more peaceful. Residents of Centreville apartments enjoy winding rural roads, quiet parks and a high standard of living, all with easy access to Washington, D.C., historic Virginia attractions and beautiful mountain getaways.

Centreville students can study in town at Columbia College’s local campus, while the region provides access to many more great colleges and universities. Northern Virginia Community College’s Manassas campus is just minutes away, as is George Mason University, in Fairfax. Washington, D.C., is home to a large number of academic institutions as well.

Centreville, like much of Fairfax County, is largely home to commuters, with many residents working in government or related sectors such as consulting. Healthcare and education are also major employers, with nearby institutions that include George Mason University. Defense contractor Northrup Grumman, research company SAIC and consulting firm Booz-Allen Hamilton are all major Fairfax County employers.

Northern Virginia is a generally affluent area, and living expenses can become somewhat pricey. Around one-quarter of Centreville residents choose to rent, and the community’s limited rental availability also makes it a competitive market.

U.S. Census Bureau data showed the median gross rent in 2011 was $1,509. Additional research found one bedroom apartments renting for between $1,100 and $1,875 per month.

Many people are drawn to Centreville because of its scenic natural surroundings, and the area’s extensive parkland makes it a great place to unwind. Centreville’s recreational destinations include E.C. Lawrence Park, which features athletic fields and several miles of trails, as well as Cub Run Park, which has nature programs and a fitness center. Bull Run Regional Park offers camping, hiking, shooting and archery facilities, while the Chesapeake Bay coastline and the mountains of Shenandoah National Park are both just an hour’s drive away.

Another outdoor escape is the nearby Manassas National Battlefield, where visitors can learn about Civil War history on the grounds of one of its most prominent battles. Fairfax County is filled with many more important Civil War remnants and landmarks, and Centreville’s historic district includes the Mount Gilead residence, which served as a Confederate headquarters, Confederate fortifications and Old Stone Church, which was used as a Civil War Hospital. Even older area historical sites include George Washington’s residence, Mount Vernon, and many prominent D.C. landmarks. Residents can also head into Washington, D.C., to enjoy great museums, arts entertainment and dining.

To find a Centreville apartment or rental, check out our apartment listings. Rent.com® is happy to help you find your next home.