Everything you need to settle in smoothly and support your family’s transition—local, practical, and parent-approved. Relocating with children comes with a unique set of priorities—from finding a pediatrician and setting up childcare to discovering the best local parks, schools, and weekend activities. This practical, parent-approved checklist is designed to help families settle into Charlottesville with ease and confidence. Whether you’re moving for work, school, or a fresh start, use this guide to get organized, connected, and ready to enjoy all that Central Virginia has to offer.
CharlottesvilleFamily Relocation Guide Flipbook
Your Free Interactive Resource for Families Moving to Charlottesville
Welcome to the CharlottesvilleFamily Relocation Guide Flipbook—your trusted Charlottesville relocation magazine designed to help families, professionals, and newcomers make a smooth transition to life in Central Virginia. Whether you’re moving across the country or just across the Blue Ridge, our Charlottesville relocation guide offers everything you need to know about neighborhoods, schools, and family life in one easy-to-browse digital publication.
Explore the guide here!
Relocation Basics: House & Community
- Set up electricity, water, and internet
- Forward your mail with USPS
- Register your vehicle and update your driver’s license at the Charlottesville DMV (Tip: Make an Appointment as lines can be long)
- Open a local checking or savings account
- Identify your trash & recycling pickup days
- Check out Charlottesville’s Tool Library
- Register to vote in Virginia (via elections.virginia.gov)
- Get a local library card at JMRL
Family & Kid Relocation Essentials
- Choose a pediatrician – see our guide: Choosing a Pediatrician for Your Newborn
- Find a family dentist – included in our Go-To Guide
- Register children for school – explore Charlottesville City Schools, Albemarle County Schools and Private School Options
- Tour preschools or daycare programs – browse:
➤ Top Charlottesville Preschools
➤ Best Daycares in Charlottesville - Apply for after-school care or enrichment activities – explore the Go-To Guide
- Sign up for local youth sports or rec programs – see listings in our Kids Activity Guide
- Visit the Virginia Discovery Museum or your neighborhood playground – see our Top Parks & Hikes Guides
Pro Tip: Keep a folder (digital or printed) with your kids’ school records, immunization forms, and activity registrations to streamline the transition.
Financial & Educational Planning in Your New Town
- Set up a Virginia 529 College Savings Plan
- Start or transfer a Virginia ABLE account (if applicable)
- Review Virginia’s childcare tax credits and flexible spending accounts
- Set a family budget that includes seasonal expenses like Summer Camps or Birthday Party Planning
Newcomers, Get Connected & Explore Virginia
- Join a Charlottesville parent group or Facebook community – find one in our Parent Guide
- Follow CharlottesvilleFamily on Facebook and Instagram and Pinterest
- Subscribe to our free CharlottesvilleFamily e-Mag
- Download the CharlottesvilleFamily Go-To Guide
- Stroll the Downtown Mall
- Take a scenic hike, ride a bike or explore the beautiful Shenandoah National Park
Helpful Tips for New City of Charlottesville Residents
City Alerts & News
Stay informed about road closures, utility updates, and emergencies by signing up for city email alerts at charlottesville.gov. You’ll be able to choose topics that matter to your household.
Free Smoke Alarms
City homeowners can request free smoke alarm installation or checks by calling 434-970-3245 or visiting the Charlottesville Fire Department online. Renters should pass this info along to their landlords.
Dog Ownership
Dogs must be licensed, vaccinated and have a city license (only $5/year or $10/lifetime) and proof of rabies vaccination. Leashes or fenced yards are required, and owners must clean up after their pets—please don’t leave bags in others’ trash cans.
Helpful Tips for New Albemarle County Residents
Emergency & Community Alerts
Stay updated on emergencies, boil water notices, evacuations, school closures, and more by signing up for CUA 911 Alerts and Albemarle County notifications. You can register online, by texting ALBEMARLE to 226787, using the Smart911 app, or through community events.
Free Smoke Alarms
Homeowners can request free smoke alarm installation or safety checks via the Albemarle County Fire Rescue at (434) 296‑5833 (press 6).
Dog Licensing & Care
All dogs aged 4+ months must be licensed within 30 days of moving to the county, using PetData’s online service or by mail. Licenses expire Dec 31 and renew by Jan 31. Owners should also follow leash laws, clean up after pets, and contact Animal Control at 434‑977‑9041 for lost/found concerns.
