Harrisonburg City, Virginia
Harrisonburg is an independent city nestled in Virginia’s scenic Shenandoah Valley, with the Blue Ridge Mountains rising to the east and the Allegheny Mountains stretching to the west. Its central location gives the city a beautiful mountain backdrop and easy access to the surrounding region.
The city sits along Interstate 81 and U.S. Route 33, making it an important transportation and commercial hub for the Shenandoah Valley. Harrisonburg is also home to James Madison University, whose large student population plays a major role in the city’s economy, culture, and community life.
Harrisonburg has a diverse population and a strong agricultural heritage. Poultry farming remains especially important to the local economy, reflecting the city’s close connection to the surrounding rural areas. With its mountain scenery, university atmosphere, transportation connections, and agricultural traditions, Harrisonburg offers a lively mix of small-city charm and regional importance.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Harrisonburg City (Independent City) |
| Population | Approximately 56,000 |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Harrisonburg City |
| Interstates and Highways | I-81, US-33, US-11 |
| FIPS Code | 51-660 |
| Total Area | 17.2 square miles (17.1 sq mi land, 0.1 sq mi water) |
| Adjacent Counties (Direction) | Rockingham County (Surrounded By) |
| Time Zone | Eastern Time Zone (ET) |
| State | Virginia |
| Coordinates | 38.4496°N, 78.8689°W |
| Etymology | Named after Thomas Harrison, pioneering settler and town founder |
| Major Landmarks | James Madison University, Rockingham County Courthouse, Harrisonburg Downtown Historic District |