Beach lovers looking for the best cities to live in Virginia will likely gravitate toward Virginia Beach. These beautiful animals were made famous in the book and subsequent movie, Misty of Chincoteague, and the town houses a museum that tells the true story behind the ponies. The locals are really nice and are generally accepting of college students. Located in the Shenandoah Valley, Staunton is a city that has much to offer its residents. Being that Norfolk is surrounded by the sea, legend has it that mermaids would actually guide battle-weary sailors back to safety after a war at sea. Bald Head Island. History and culture make Roanoke a great location for your Virginia state retirement. To find the cities where Black Americans fare best economically, SmartAsset looked at the 200 . The cost of living is low, making it an excellent place for families or those on a budget. Virginia Beach offers well, beaches. The sculptures are a fun way to decorate the city while also honoring its maritime roots. The downtown: Lexington has a charming and historic downtown district worth exploring. 1. The city is home to a variety of historic sites, including George Washington's childhood home, Ferry Farm. You can retire to the beach, the suburbs, a small town, or the mountains. Powered by Mai Theme, 17 Best Blue Ridge Parkway Hikes You Must Try. Perfect for retirees or anyone looking for culture combined with a low cost of living. Virginia is home to many charming beach towns that have small-town American vibes, including Chincoteague, Tangier Island, and beyond. If youre convinced enough of Viennas merits to make it your next home, youd better start saving: thanks to the ever-increasing popularity of the town, its average property price stands at a hefty $662,200. 46.5" 15. Except that Kilmarnock is not on the Eastern Shore which is what the bolg is about. The List: Best Places to Live in Virginia Most Recommended By Experts 1. Rock Hall. The town has a rich history and a variety of attractions that make it a popular destination for tourists and families alike. At first glance, Richmond has the perfect canvas to be an amazing city. Get an affordable, professionally prepared retirement plan today. The amenities: With two hospitals and a major mall, Charlottesville has everything you need within its city. Few people who know Chincoteague Island will argue with this towns reign as one of the best towns in Virginia. Low crime rates, high levels of well-being, excellent walkability, fair tax rates, a good healthcare system, and some exceptional schools are among the many reasons Alexandria ranks as one of the most desirable places to live in Virginia. NASA Wallops Island Flight Facility Visitor Center, 10 Must Do Hikes in Shenandoah National Park, 8 Exclusive Luxury Retreats For a Pampered Virginia Getaway, 10 Gorgeous Glamping Destinations in Virginia for a Luxury Outdoor Experience, WanderLove: A Road Trip From Fredericksburg To Virginias Northern Neck, 15 Memorable Holiday Road Trips to Virginias Most Festive Towns, The Top Spots to View Virginias Colorful Foliage Throughout the Fall, 18 Relaxing Wellness Retreats and Getaways in Virginia, Hiking with Kids: 10 Family-Friendly Trails in Virginia, WanderLove: A Road Trip From Norfolk to Virginias Eastern Shore, 20 Virginia Summits with 360 Degree Views, 10 Best 2-3 Day Virginia Backpacking Trips on the Appalachian Trail. Feeling inspired to check out more of Virginia's small towns? With its impressive variety of landscapes, countless activities, adventures to be had, food to be eaten, and memories to be made, Virginia is a true gem. Over 60,000 veterans live in Virginia Beach and the city is home to Naval Air Station Oceana which is responsible for over 60,000 military take-offs and landings each year. In addition, what makes Virginia especially interesting is its military influence. Awesome fun coastal town with farmers markets, festivals, shopping and about 1000 residents. In fact, when you visit Crozet, you won't be far from the countless hiking trails in Shenandoah National Park. Its excellent school system and low crime numbers, meanwhile, make it one of the most attractive places on our list for raising a family. Of its population of 74,627, 23% have a master's degree or higher, 34% have a bachelor's degree, and a further 21% have a college or associate degree. Perfect for: Families who want a close-knit community feel or nature lovers who want to live in a beautiful setting. According to Livability, Charlottesville ranks as one of the top 100 best places to live in the entire US. oldest continuously operating inns in the U.S. Lexington, Virginia and the Rockbridge Area Tourism / Facebook, reasons you should never, ever move to Virginia. By using this website, you accept our Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy. Jump in your car and drive 137 miles Southeast of Richmond and youll find another city in Virginia. The town also has a lively music scene and many wineries. Several! The cost of childcare, healthcare, and housing quickly racks up, especially when youre living on a single income. Recognized by Only in Your State as one of the best places in Virginia for millennials, Virginia Beachs vibrant urban atmosphere, ample activities, shopping opportunities, historical sites, beautiful beaches, and cultural events make it just as big a draw to the old as it is to the young. Fort Monroe Beach, Hampton VA. 7. Best Places to Live in Newport News, Virginia. First settled in the 1700s, Chincoteague gained the spotlight in the late 1940s with the publication of Misty of Chincoteague, a story about one of the islands now-famous wild ponies. Boasting gorgeous beaches, fantastic boardwalks, and lively nightlife, there's something for everyone in this vibrant coastal city. Located right on the South Carolina coast, Charleston is a tourist destination with beautiful moss-draped live oaks and gorgeous pastel-colored waterfront homes. The downtown area has lots of local shops carrying everything from handcrafted jewelry to homemade ice cream. Best Oceanfront Hotels In Virginia Beach. Thanks to its easy proximity to the states capital, Viennas lucky residents get to enjoy all the joys of the big city while raising their kids in a safe, peaceful environment. Just 25 miles west of Virginia Beach exists the state's second largest city, Norfolk. With a population of 16,378, Vienna is the kind of close-knit, family-friendly community that picket fence dreams are made of. And, finally, if youre into great food and craft beer, Norfolk is the place for you. Already called one of the Best Small Towns in America by Smithsonian Magazine and Frommers, TheCultureTrip.com has named it the Most Beautiful Small Town in Virginia as well. Middleburg. The only ferry to Tangier Island from the shore departs from Onancock, giving you access to yet another incredible small town on the Eastern Shore. In Virginia Beach there are a lot of restaurants, coffee . If youre trying to decide where to live in Virginia, theres no shortage of appealing options. Radford. Fintech company SmartAsset compared data for 218 beach towns and put together a list of the most affordable 50.. The town was historically a bustling port town, with steamboats traveling between Baltimore and Norfolk stopping in the waterfront community for supplies and rest. They were ranked according to their median home value, average number of rooms per house, median monthly property taxes paid and monthly housing costs. Beaufort. As the tenth oldest state in the country, youd expect it to have its share of wealthy, sedate centers, and youd be right. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Then get saving. These beach towns provide the resident and visitors a perfectly balanced beach experience. Wachapreague is a tiny Victorian-era town with a population of only 200 permanent residents, and is surrounded by farmland, woods, water, and some of the only undeveloped wetlands and barrier islands in the Mid-Atlantic. As to number 3 where do you start? Fancy moving into one of Fairfax countys most desirable hot spots? Other Virginia towns that ranked in the list of 150 were Cape Charles, which ranked 37th and Warrenton, which ranked . Weve said it before and well say it again. As it notes, most of the citys 45,084 strong population comprises of highly educated young professionals (thanks, no doubt, to it being the home of the illustrious University of Virginia, which over the years has educated everyone from Edgar Allan Po to Tina Fey), many of whom are activity engaged in the kind of civic causes that are turning Charlottesville into one the states most desirable destinations. Its becoming something new. Corrections for the Onancock section: Burnham Guides rents kayaks, SUPs and does tours from the historic Steamboat Ticket Office at Onancock Wharf. And its no wonder. But with so much to offer, the state has a little something for everyone. These are river towns and not very touristy at all. In fact, out of a list of 300 of the most populated cities in the, Read More The 20 Safest Places to Live in MarylandContinue, South Africa is unquestionably one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Wrightsville Beach. Anything you cant find in Falls Church will be available in nearby D.C., which is a short 20-minute drive away. Sign up for travel tips and inspiration delivered right to your inbox. Check out esvatourism.org There is a tab for lodging, then a pic of a dog, click on that and you will see them. #3 Best Places to Live in Virginia Colonial Village Neighborhood in Arlington, VA A+ Overall Niche Grade A+ Public Schools Population 2,895 View nearby homes Randolph-Macon Academy Front Royal, VA Private School 6-12 168 reviews Parent: The Admissions department made the application process seamless. Best Beach Towns in America - 23 of the Most Charming Beach Towns. 14 Chincoteague. Edenton Edenton | Photo Copyright: Lana Law Set on Albemarle Sound, Edenton is a peaceful escape from the stress of everyday life. It has a first-class school system, with Chantilly High School, Centreville High School, Fairfax High School, and Westfield High School all scoring an A+ under Niches assessment criteria. Enjoy a stay in Chincoteague at the Channel Bass Inn Bed & Breakfast or the towns first boutique hotel, the Marina Bay Hotel & Suites. Its transforming. If youre interested in staying overnight, book a stay at the Bay View Bed & Breakfast. #10. The town also has a lively music scene and many wineries. Arlington is a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family. 18. If you dont like the heat, you may want to consider another town.). This sleepy coastal town is well known for sport fishing, bringing enthusiasts from around the world to fish in the vast and plentiful waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The town combines history with big-city life, bringing buildings from the 1700s together with shopping and dining. The best place to live in Virginia for 2022 is Vienna. 2. Look it up. Check out this article that highlights 11 of the most beautiful places to see in Virginia. Portland, Maine. Some of them are right on the coast where in the summertime you can literally kick off your dress shoes after work and go for a walk along the beach. Regent University. Now there are small towns and then there are small towns. Before you plan your VA retirement, though, take some time to look around at the many options the state has to offer. Virginia has dozens of small towns that offer endless charm, hospitality, and memorable adventures. The schools are excellent, and the town has a close-knit community feel. For the time being, here are a few of the most charming towns in Virginia that have garnered national and statewide praise for their community, beauty, and all-around livability. Named by Southern Living as one of the best North Carolina beach towns, Beaufort is a small, charming harbor town with a list of perks a mile long. Best North Carolina Beaches. 17. Most residents own their homes here and there is a small-town feel in the middle of the city. Rich with history, this small town was once home to the Cherokee Nation and by the mid-18th century, had been explored by the likes of William Byrd and Daniel Boone. The idea of kicking off your shoes after work and walking along the beach is pretty appealing to us and we imagine it is to you too. The 20 Best Places for Teachers to Live in the U.S. Every beach town has its share of pluses and minuses, which. The stunning James River actually runs through the city and during the spring, summer and fall months, residents can be seen swimming, paddle boarding and kayaking in it. Cape Hatteras. Chincoteague is an island town on Virginia's northeast side that boasts a more straightforward way of life with well-manicured streets and unspoiled natural environments. Its most famous for theUniversity of Virginia and Monticello, the home of Thomas Jefferson. The median household income in Arlington is $105,763. There are plenty of activities, including both a senior center and Southwest Virginia Higher Education Centers College for Older Adults. Sandbridge Beach 1,472 Beaches By HERE-AND-THERE-302 Excellent parking, good price, super sand, clean beach, great waves, family oriented, bath rooms, shower, perfect day. Providing you dont have a pointy hat, a broomstick, and a black cat at your heels, youre likely to be left spellbound by the pretty little city of Salem. If you are looking for quaint towns in Virginia put this on your list. Luray. Home Living like a local The Best Places to Live in Virginia (A 2022 Guide). 1. Newport News, Virginia is a charming city located on the Chesapeake Bay. If youre looking to make the state of Virginia your next home, you could do a lot worse than the little town of Warrenton. If you plan on making the move to Richmond soon, give us a call, wed love to help. The town has colonial-era architecture and a recreated 18th-century village, complete with an amusement park and shopping opportunities nearby. Aesthetically, you couldnt ask for a prettier city than Richmond and with four fairly mild seasons, youll be able to enjoy the citys beauty year around without finding yourself too hot in the summertime nor freezing come winter. Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 344. Its now Maurice., Also in Cape Charles there are several historic renovated B&Bs. And then theres schooling, safety, job opportunities, and more, Read More The 20 Best Places for Single Moms to Live in EuropeContinue, Theres more to Wisconsin than cheese curds. Looking for the top place to live in Virginia? In addition, 22 percent of the residents are 65 years and over. What is the most scenic town in Virginia? This small town is known for the Martinsville . If youre looking for a beachfront break without the crowds, plan a vacation to one of these five small towns on the Eastern Shore. Middleburg in Loudoun County has been listed at the top of Frommer's Best Small Towns in Virginia. The city has a population of around 24,000 and is known for its historic downtown district, which was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1978. The history: Alexandria is home to some of the most historical sites in the state, including George Washingtons birthplace and Mount Vernon, the home of Americas first president. I spend my free time with my family, hiking, exploring breweries and new restaurants in the area. Combine that with low unemployment (just 3.9% at the last count), low poverty (5.8%), and an above-average median income of $70,863, and its easy to understand why incomers are happy to lay down $312,400 for a property in this highly desirable community. Norfolk is also home to an impressive art scene and to a massive 220,000 square-foot art museum called the Chrysler Museum of Art. Ocracoke Island. What is the best coastal town to live in North Carolina? Download The Entire Virginia Ranking Data. 100. The crime rate is so low as to be almost non-existent, the unemployment rate is at an all-time low of 2.9%, while the school system is one of the best in the state. The small-town feel: With a population of just over 1,000, Clifton has a strong sense of community, and the residents are committed to preserving the areas natural beauty. There are so many great cities in Virginia that its a bit hard to make a decision. When not underground in the caves . Many of the residents work for the federal government, but the 65-plus community is a thriving one, as well. 10 Stunningly Beautiful Virginia Beaches + Tips for Picking the Right One, 11 Gorgeous Apple Orchards in Virginia (Best VA Apple Picking!). Onancock is quite possibly one of the greatest hidden gems of the Eastern Shore. History buffs cant go wrong with Williamsburg, which is one of the oldest cities in the country. Located on Virginia's Eastern Shore, Chincoteague is a famous town in VA and one of the unique places for the best weekend getaways in Virginia. http://www.burnhamguides.com/virginia Also, Inn and Garden Cafe is closed. Vienna. To empower a confident, worry-free retirement for everyone. Although its home to two colleges, VMI and W&L, Lexington is much more than just a college town. This company Harbor Rental in chincoteague has many different size homes that are pet friendly. While the Nutmeg State may not be known first and foremost as a beach destination, vacationers and house hunters will be delighted to see the selection it has by the water. Median Annual Income. Fredericksburg was established in 1671 and is located in the Northern Virginia region of the state. Winchester. Be sure to share your thoughts with us and join in on the conversation by leaving a comment. If youre a history buff, the state has plenty to offer there, as well. 4. 18 places sorted by traveler favorites Clear all filters 1. A growing population puts Blacksburg on the list of Virginias best places to live for some. Hi Rhonda, Im considering purchasing a home in Wachapreague. #5 Places with the Best Public Schools in Virginia Blacksburg Town in Virginia 184 reviews Current Resident: Blacksburg is a classic small town with a lot of local businesses and restaurants to support. Calvert Cliffs State Park #3 in Best Beaches in Maryland Characterized by imposing cliffs that were formed about 10 to 20 million years ago and occupy about 25 miles of shoreline, Calvert Cliffs. But it turns out, your beach-town dream may not be as far out of reach as you think. Full of architectural delights, quirky little boutiques, and artisanal marketplaces, its easy to understand how Williamson attracts over 4 million tourists every year. . If you can find a more affordable city with access to amenities, you may be able to enjoy the best of all possible worlds. Surrounded on all sides by Virginia wine and horse country, Warrenton enjoys one of the most idyllic spots in the state. Bird watching is also a big draw, especially during spring and fall migrations when thousands of birds take flight through the region. However, if youre asking us to weigh in, we have to give todays MVP to Richmond. Special events and cultural attractions will give you plenty to do. Best Overall City - Arlington Cliff / flickr Matthew Hurst / flickr Arlington sits just at the border of Virginia and Washington, D.C. so it's no wonder this vibrant city scores so high in terms of things to do, economy and livability. Come Visit! While its median home price of $383,900 is half that of other prime locations such as Venice (more on which coming up), its close proximity to Mason Neck State Park, the Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge, and Pohick Bay Regional Park guarantees its residents the kind of overdoor lifestyle other towns would kill for. Luray, VA. 4,842. The location: Alexandria is situated right at the top of Virginia and is a short commute away from Washington D.C. Here are four Virginia Beach neighborhoods that you should take a look at if you're planning on retiring in Virginia Beach. The houses and neighborhoods are beautiful, the people are friendly, and its wonderful to have such good neighbors. Check out the web site or call them +1 800-221-5059. Our first sell on Virginia Beach is that it sports over 38 miles of coastline. Check out this road trip that will take you to 6 of the most scenic small towns in Virginia. But, more specifically, its for the individual that wants access to beautiful beaches, while still getting to enjoy all four seasons (without freezing to death in the winter). Perfect for: Families who want a safe and friendly town to raise their children or young professionals who want to live near a large university. Visit the Tangier History Museum to learn about the small islands long and captivating history. Virginia Beach 3,092 Beaches By JustCho2 With a crime rate thats among the lowest in Virginia, an unemployment rate of 4.2%, a close-knit community of 13,843, and a median income of $114,795, Falls Church scores exceptionally well across the board. Nothing on this website should be considered an offer, solicitation of an offer, or advice to buy or sell securities. As such, its important that you pick a place with all the features and amenities that are most important to you. Fairfax County has some of the very best public schools in the nation. Despite competing with the best of them when it comes to amenities, Bon Airs property prices are among the lowest on our list, with the average cost of a three-bedroom single-family home standing at a very reasonable $212,900. The town is known for its high quality of life and a great place to raise children. The towns small population mainly work as watermen, harvesting fresh seafood from the surrounding Bay waters. Id vote for the Refuge Inn when in Chincoteague. Middleburg is a popular town in Virginia that is located in Loudoun County. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. Lifelong watermen and weekend sailors alike head to Rock Hall for its nautical flavor, complete with marinas, a small beach, and waterfront crabhouses. Perfect for: young professionals looking for culture and beauty with home and rent prices around the national average. Best Hotels & Resorts in Virginia: 12 Amazing Places to Stay, This Candy Store In Virginia Was Ripped Straight From The Pages Of A Fairytale, Discover A Little-Known Natural Wonder In Virginia On The 1.5-Mile Mountain Lake Trail, Drinks Are Served In The Coolest Setting At Gershwins, A 1920s-Themed Virginia Tavern, These 25 Towns In Virginia Have The Best Main Streets You Gotta Visit, Here Are The 11 Best Cities In Virginia To Retire, Staunton, Virginia Was Recently Named A Top Mountain Town By Southern Living Magazine, Youll Want To Spend More Time In This Historic Crabbing Town In Virginia, Greg Vassilakos (Own work) [Public domain] / Wikimedia Commons. Its a city for creatives, artists and entrepreneurs looking to escape the big bustling cities and replace it with a hidden gem with plenty of historic charm in the midst of a renaissance. What are your thoughts on our list of the 10 best small towns in Virginia? This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. The region offers more than 100 golf courses within 30 miles. If youre in the mood for a little adventure, rent a kayak or stand up paddleboard from Burnham Guides, located in the historic Steamboat Ticket Office at Onancock Wharf. For a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape, stop by the Assateague Lighthouse on the neighboring Assateague Island. Are there any that you believe should be on this list? This isnt to say its a youngsters playground only- the excellent economy, great schools, booming job market, high home values, low crime rates and abundance of things to see and do make Arlington as equally popular with seniors and families as it is with millennials. Antiquers and outdoor enthusiasts equally will be at home in these destinations promising all of the above and more. Pelican Beach, Destin. Moving Company Costs Explained. Virginia Beach is first and foremost for the beach lover. But Williamsburg personifies the answer to the question, is Virginia a good place to live? Youll get access to museums, antique shops, and restaurants, as well as a growing over-65 population. The charming downtown area includes art museums and a pedestrian mall, and the nearby Blue Ridge Mountains offer all the outdoor recreation you could want. Blue Ridge, Ridge and Valley & Appalachian Plateau. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Official Tourism Blog Of The Commonwealth Of VirginiaCopyright 2023 Virginia Tourism Corporation, 901 E. Cary St., Suite 900, Richmond, Va 23219. So why the popularity? Percentage of the Population Over 65: 18.7%. Middleburg in Loudoun County has been listed at the top of Frommers Best Small Towns in Virginia. 2022 Retirable Inc. All rights reserved. Perfect for: Young professionals looking for a short commute and great nightlife. Best Places to Live in Virginia Beach, Virginia Virginia Beach, Virginia is a popular summer destination for beachgoers and sun seekers alike. In the past, weve highlighted hidden gems like Chattanooga and Austin as places we recommend calling home for their breadth of opportunity, affordability, hip funky culture and loads of entertainment. Sample fresh seafood at The Fishermans Corner Restaurant or Lorraines Seafood Restaurant. With all of these favorable factors considered, it's easy to see why Virginia is frequently recognized as one of the best places to live or retire in the Southeast. Grandview Beach, Hampton, VA. 8. Potomac Shores Potomac Shores, VA Named the 2016 Community of the Year, this award-winning waterfront destination sits on the shores of the historic Potomac River, and is one of the best coastal towns in Virginia. If youre looking for somewhere that manages to combine highly rated schools, striking Victorian architecture, an almost nonexistent crime rate, a family friendly environment, and excellent civic amenities with supremely affordable house prices, you may want to take a closer look at the charming little town of Bon Air in Chesterfield Country. Best Places to Live | Compare cost of living, crime, cities, schools and more. Welcome to Virginia Beach. SouthEast Expeditions offers an Aqua-Culture Clamming tour along Cherrystone Creek, just north of Cape Charles. 6.3 Desirability. Visitors can enjoy the great outdoors with kayaking, paddle boarding . Alexandria CITY POPULATION: 159,428 SHARE OF POPULATION 65+: 13.9% The weather: It hardly ever snows here, making it an excellent spot for summer lovers. Plus, the dining scene is equally impressive. With a population of around 42,000, it is home to Virginia Tech, one of the largest universities in the state. In general, residents here are outdoorsy and enjoy horseback riding, fishing, kayaking, waterskiing and stand-up paddleboarding during . We are not at all surprised. There are plenty of hiking and biking trails and other recreational opportunities. Although the town prides itself on its slower pace, the population is one of the fastest-growing in the area. The charming town of Chantilly in Fairfax County is home to just under 24,000 people, all of whom can expect low crime rates, a smorgasbord of local attractions (including the Ellanor C. Lawrence Park, the Sully Plantation, and the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center), great schools, an above-average median household income, and an almost permanent place on any compilation of the best place to live in Virginia.