In a recent conversation with someone considering a move to the Harrisonburg and Rockingham County area, they mentioned something I don't think about too often because it is the reality I live in every day...

Home prices have risen quite a bit over the past five years.

They are absolutely right.  The median sales price in our local housing market has increased significantly since 2020. 

So why has this happened?

One of the biggest reasons is actually relatively simple...

Harrisonburg and Rockingham County are popular places to live.

People who already live here often want to stay here. Many homeowners who might have moved in other markets are choosing to remain in our area because they enjoy what life is like living in Harrisonburg or in an immediately surrounding area.

And, at the same time, plenty of people want to move here.

Some are relocating for jobs at JMU, Sentara RMH, Merck, etc. Others are moving here because of the quality of life in the Shenandoah Valley, outdoor recreation options, the strong sense of community, and a cost of living that is still relatively reasonable compared to many other larger metro areas.

When you combine people staying with new people arriving, it leads to a steady or increasing demand for housing.

And when demand grows faster than supply, home prices will often rise.

So while those rising home prices can feel discouraging if you are just beginning to consider a move to this area, they also are an indication that Harrisonburg and Rockingham County are places where people want to live.

In other words, rising home prices are partly a reflection of this being a great place to live.