Sandy Creek

Franklin, Virginia, a small city along the Blackwater River in southeastern Virginia, isa peaceful place to call home that still has plenty to do. D.R. Horton offers a range of new construction homes in Franklin, so you can settle into a thriving small-town atmosphere in the comfort of a brand-new house. Franklin’s location in Southampton County, about 30 miles from Suffolk and 40 miles from Norfolk, and reputation as a transportation center means you’ll have easy access to urban amenities in addition to the town’s suburban conveniences. Many of our new home communities in Franklin and the surrounding area have their own amenities to enjoy, and all of our Franklin houses for sale offer spacious open floorplans and smart home technology.

Why choose Franklin, Virginia

Once a major railroad and steamboat hub, Franklin has remained a busy center of connection; the city has evolved into a historic, community-driven, southern Virginia suburb with a local economy supported by a mix of industries, including its famous Virginia Peanuts and other agricultural products. The downtown Franklin historic district of more than 200 buildings from the late 1800s and early 1900s covers 86 acres and offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.

Though Franklin places an importance on maintaining pieces of their history, you’ll also find many modern establishments in the town, including everything from grocery or clothing stores to hair salons to car dealers to entertainment options like bowling. Franklin's location on the scenic Blackwater River also provides residents with outdoor recreational opportunities, including fishing and kayaking, and residents can partake in annual events hosted by the city.

Franklin's location along US Routes 58 and 258 and SR 189 provide access to I-64 and I-95, making it easy to get to larger cities while maintaining its small-town atmosphere. The city’s comprehensive healthcare system is anchored by the more than 200-bed Bon Secours - Southampton Medical Center, ensuring residents have access to quality care. Franklin City Public Schools provides a range of educational options, including gifted programs and the Governor’s School for the Arts.

With its abundance of local amenities and outdoor recreation options, Franklin appeals to those who want modern conveniences and a close-knit community.

Community life in Franklin, Virginia

Franklin’s historic downtown district, with its shops and restaurants, serves as a focal point for many gatherings and cultural experiences which showcase the city’s creative spirit and support local businesses and artists. Two examples include the Franklin Fall Festival, held in late September, and the Spring Fest in April, which close down several blocks of historic downtown to bring together residents, local artisans, crafters, and food vendors. The Spring Fest also includes a farmer’s market in support of local farms and producers. Other farmer’s markets and food-related fun in Franklin can be found through events like Franklin's Market On Main or the Food Truck Rodeo.

Franklin’s historic presence as an agricultural and lumber center is honored today in more ways than just farmer’s markets. Lumberjack Fest, which takes place in May, with competition chopping, sawing, climbing, rolling, and chainsaw carving is a way the area celebrates its contributions to the lumber industry. The Franklin-Southampton County Fair celebrates the area’s agricultural heritage by showcasing local produce and livestock. The fair also has live music and a market of local vendors for visitors to enjoy. At many local festivals and markets, you’ll find plenty of the area's famous Virginia Peanuts, as they’re not only economically important to the region but also a source of pride for the community.

The Garden Club of Virginia hosts a Historic Garden Week tour of private homes in Franklin. These tours feature historic homes with different architectural styles and well-loved gardens. All proceeds from the tours goes toward preserving historic public gardens in the area. The Franklin Cruise-In attracts automotive enthusiasts, and is open to all makes, models, and years of cars, trucks, and bikes. This family-friendly event takes place weekly on Main Street, Wednesday afternoons and evenings, from May through the first week of October. The Cruise-In finale in October is often a big celebration with music, fireworks, and of course–a car show. Franklin and the surrounding area also host multiple annual carnivals in the spring and summer, like the Franklin Fun Fair. These carnivals include family-friendly fun like rides, fair games, food, and vendor markets.

Family engagement in Franklin doesn’t stop with festivals and annual events. The town’s youth can find activities and community involvement through various city programs. In addition to the extracurricular and educational activities offered through Franklin City Public Schools, community organizations and clubs, like those offered through the Parks and Recreation Department, provide opportunities for youth involvement, development, and athleticism. The Parks and Recreation Department organizes youth sports leagues, such as soccer, t-ball, volleyball, and basketball, fostering physical activity and teamwork among kids. It also runs an adult co-ed softball league with games held on the ball field at the Armory Park Athletic Complex, one of Franklin’s ten parks and sports facilities that include a swimming pool, tennis courts, and other structures maintained by the city.

Though Franklin already provides a multitude of events and activities for residents, even more entertainment can be found through an easy drive outside of the town’s borders. Franklin's location, approximately 45 miles west of Norfolk, allows residents to enjoy both small-town charm and easy access to larger cities. This proximity enables Franklin residents to participate in a wider range of cultural and entertainment events in the broader Hampton Roads region while maintaining their close-knit community atmosphere.

Outdoor fun in Franklin, Virginia

Franklin residents can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities throughout the year, thanks to the city's diverse natural features and recreational facilities.

The Blackwater River is a focal point for outdoor enthusiasts in Franklin interested in fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. Along the river, Blackwater Park provides 200 acres of natural beauty. The park’s 800-foot boardwalk, trails, and educational signage for observing wildlife make it a local favorite. The Turkey Island Loop trail and the Ridge Trail are two short walks at the park that offer opportunities for hiking and nature exploration. The park’s location along the Blackwater River also allows for fishing, with opportunities to catch striped bass, river herring, shad, and more.

The shores of the Blackwater River is also the site of Barrett's Landing Park, located within walking distance of downtown Franklin. This park offers another scenic spot for fishing on the river, as well as picnicking and enjoying peaceful river views. The park features a large gazebo, a wharf, and a footbridge along the water's edge, making it great for leisurely walks or simply relaxing by the river.

Franklin is also home to the Nottoway River, which is known for a wide variety of fish, like bass, catfish, shad, sunfish, bluegill, and more, making it an ideal location for fishing. This river also has a boat landing in Franklin, where you can launch kayaks, canoes, or boats.

For those interested in more extensive outdoor adventures, Franklin's location provides access to larger recreational spots within a two- to three-hour drive. There’s excellent hiking, fishing, camping, horseback riding, cycling, and more at places like Shenandoah National Park, which offers over 500 miles of trails. Visitors of the park can take scenic hikes like the Franklin Cliffs and Hawksbill Mountain Loop, or hop on a horse at a local stable and go for a guided ride through part of the 180 miles of trails designated for horse use. This 105-mile-long park has four entrance stations, with the Rockfish Gap Entrance Station being a straight-shot down I-64 from Franklin. Franklin residents can also enter the park at the Swift Run Gap Entrance Station, which is only about 15 minutes longer of a drive via I-64.

There are several large recreational spaces for water activities within a few hours of Franklin, as well. Smith Mountain Lake, the second largest lake in Virginia with 500 miles of shoreline, is ideal for boating, fishing, and kayaking. Philpott Lake, located in Franklin County, features 2,880 acres of pristine waters surrounded by protected wilderness, offering fishing for bass and walleye as well as sailing, paddling, and camping. Additionally, the Smith River provides year-round trout fishing opportunities downstream from Philpott Dam, with designated access points for anglers and paddlers.

Golfers in Franklin can choose from several high-quality courses in the area. The Cypress Cove Country Club in Franklin features an 18-hole, par-72 course along the waters of Cypress Cove in addition to a driving range, putting green, and a pro shop. The Suffolk Golf Course, less than 20 miles away, is another 18-hole course with a driving range. If you’re in the mood for a weekend golf trip, you can drive to the Williamsburg area, about 65 miles from Franklin. This area has several excellent courses that are more suitable for a weekend trip than one day of play, including the Golden Horseshoe Golf Club and Kingsmill Resort.

The town of Virginia Beach, with its 35 miles of coastline, a three-mile boardwalk, and expansive sandy beaches to enjoy, is just 60 miles from Franklin, making it close enough for a day at the beach or a longer stay.

Businesses and economics in Franklin, Virginia

Franklin's diverse economy is based on a mix of traditional industries and modern enterprises. Franklin Southampton Economic Development, Inc. helps diversify the economy, create high-quality jobs, and attract new businesses as well as increase tourism and small business development.

The city's largest employers include Southampton Memorial Hospital and Paul D. Camp Community College. The manufacturing sector plays a significant role in the area, with companies like Enviva, a manufacturer of sustainable wood pellets, and Solenis, a chemical company, contributing to the local economy and job market.

The agricultural heritage of Franklin remains strong since peanut processing is an important industry. Companies such as Birdsong Peanuts and Hubbard Peanut are major employers, processing and selling Virginia's famous peanuts. These businesses not only provide jobs but also contribute to the area's unique cultural identity.

The Franklin Business Center in the downtown historic district is a 40,000-square-foot space that serves as a new business incubator by offering space, support staff, and programs to nurture young firms and expand businesses. The city also benefits from retail operations, as companies like Food Lion and Walmart provide employment opportunities in the service sector.

Franklin's location approximately 40 miles west of Norfolk allows residents access to broader employment opportunities in the Hampton Roads region, including industries ranging from information technology to advanced manufacturing, such as shipbuilding, aerospace, and the defense sector.

What makes Franklin a great place to live

Franklin offers a blend of small-town charm and modern amenities, with a beautiful downtown district that’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Nature enthusiasts appreciate Franklin's access to outdoor recreation, especially its location on the Blackwater River. The many recreational parks in Franklin also provide ample facilities for those interested in team and individual sports.

Families are drawn to Franklin for its strong sense of community and educational opportunities. The city hosts annual events fostering a close-knit community atmosphere. Working people appreciate Franklin's diverse economy, with major employers in healthcare, education, and manufacturing. Retirees find Franklin appealing for its peaceful setting, gentle weather conditions, and convenience.

Franklin houses for sale

D.R. Horton's new homes in Franklin, Virginia are great for people at any stage of life. With access to job opportunities, good schools, and many activities and conveniences, D.R. Horton communities in Franklin offer something for everyone. Browse our listings for new construction homes in Franklin, or visit our model homes today.