Is it expensive to keep a horse in Virginia?

Few places in America are as naturally suited for horses as Virginia’s Piedmont. Rich, well drained pasture, four distinct seasons and a thriving equestrian culture and history make the Charlottesville area ideal for the equine enthusiast. People often ask, is it expensive to keep a horse in Charlottesville, Virginia? That question has a wide range of answers based on the horse owner’s desires and experience.

I keep two horses, Rosie and Billy, on our property of thirteen acres and spend about $1800 per year on our farrier, $1500 a year on feed, (Triple Crown Senior), about $500 per year for hay and maybe $500 on meds, fly spray and carrots. They have a run-in shed for shelter and about 8 acres of good pasture. That’s about $360 per month for two horses who are happy, healthy and used just for trail riding. 

On the other hand, a competitive show hunter or three day event horse might cost $50,000 to purchase, require professional training and lessons at around $2,000 per month, require an $80,000 tow vehicle for your $40,000 gooseneck horse trailer and regular vet visits just because.

Somewhere between those two extremes is your answer. Horses are very self sufficient and easily pleased with nothing more than good grass. Have a look at some Virginia horse farms for sale today and feel free to get in touch with John Ince with any questions you might have.