The city is home to a variety of historic sites, including George Washington's childhood home, Ferry Farm. 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). With excellent outdoor activities on its doorstep (including excellent hiking, kayaking, horseback riding, winter skiing and snow-tubing opportunities at Shenandoah National Park) and an abundance of first-class restaurants, boutiques, wineries, and other recreational pursuits, we anticipate an even higher position on our list for the popular town in the years to come. During the spring, fall and summer months, everywhere you look people can be seen rollerblading, skimboarding, paddleboarding, kayaking and walking their dogs. Virginia Beach, Virginia. Sorry, but our waterfront home, Eagles View, is not pet friendly basically because of the amount of time the dogs would be left alone in the house while their families are at the beach, hiking the trails, eating out, etc. Bald Head Island. Population. Founded in 1680 as Port Scarborough, it has been called the Coolest Town in the South by Budget Travel and the #1 Small Town in Virginia by CitiesJournal.com. Number 3: it's one of the best neighborhoods in Virginia Beach. View Full Report Card. 6.3 Desirability. Add in a great cost of living and tons of southern charm and. The history: If youre a fan of American history, then youll love living in Williamsburg. The 10 Best Places To Live In Virginia: Top Picks to Live, Work, and Although its home to two colleges, VMI and W&L, Lexington is much more than just a college town. 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. Were loving the renaissance taking place there as well as the affordability the city has to offer. Not to mention, Norfolk based breweries like Smartmouth Brewing and OConnor Brewing Co are turning the city into a beer drinkers paradise. After exploring downtown with its quaint cottage-like Main. As such, its important that you pick a place with all the features and amenities that are most important to you. Onancock is quite possibly one of the greatest hidden gems of the Eastern Shore. Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 344. The town is known for its high quality of life and a great place to raise children. Here, we take a look at the best places to live in Virginia: whether youre a 20 something millennial or a 60 something baby boomer, youd be thrilled to call any one of these 20 hotspots your home. Located in the Shenandoah Valley, Staunton is a city that has much to offer its residents. What makes it a great place to live: The University of Virginia. The city of Richmond itself is lovely. Another great kayaking trip is the Paddle Your Glass Off tour, a guided paddling expedition through the Bay waters to Chatham Vineyards, where youll take a scenic break for a little wine tasting. These are river towns and not very touristy at all. Other than the excellent school system and abundance of local amenities, Purcellville residents enjoy both the 2nd highest median income ($128,017 per household) in the state and the 2nd lowest crime figures. Pelican Beach, Destin. Full of architectural delights, quirky little boutiques, and artisanal marketplaces, its easy to understand how Williamson attracts over 4 million tourists every year. Living in Virginia Beach offers residents a dense suburban feel and most residents own their homes. Just 25 miles west of Virginia Beach exists the states second largest city, Norfolk. 10 Best Cities to Retire in Virginia in 2023 - Retirable The 10 Best Beach Towns on the East Coast - Cond Nast Traveler This is true, but it also just so happens to be a wonderful place to call home, too. Perfect for retirees or anyone looking for culture combined with a low cost of living. 46.5" 15. . Four hospitals and plenty of medical offices will help you keep your healthcare options open. What was once a small farming community is now a thriving community of 24,384. How Much Do Movers Cost in 2022? Obviously the lake is a big draw in the summer . If youre trying to decide where to live in Virginia, theres no shortage of appealing options. 100. "The area boasts access to over 10 beaches, including Sandbridge, Croatan, and North End," says Zumper. It is affordable with excellent healthcare and education systems. What is your favorite small town? Three Virginia towns make the top The surrounding counties of Stafford and Spotsylvania are more affordable than the downtown, with single-family homes available in the $250,000 range. Most residents own their homes here and there is a small-town feel in the middle of the city. Here are the best places to live in Virginia. Throughout the city, youll find hundreds of sculptures of mermaids, the citys unofficial mascot of sorts. Williamsburg is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. In general, residents here are outdoorsy and enjoy horseback riding, fishing, kayaking, waterskiing and stand-up paddleboarding during . How many of these quaint towns in Virginia have you visited? The city is changing. More than 175 colleges and universities are in the Commonwealth. Sun Set Beach Resort, Cape Charles. Be sure to share your thoughts with us and join in on the conversation by leaving a comment. But, outside from the beaches, the city as a whole sports a very outdoor-centric culture. The town was historically a bustling port town, with steamboats traveling between Baltimore and Norfolk stopping in the waterfront community for supplies and rest. 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. As the tenth oldest state in the country, youd expect it to have its share of wealthy, sedate centers, and youd be right. 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 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. The charming town center: Downtown Fredericksburg offers a variety of restaurants, shops, and breweries. Antiquers and outdoor enthusiasts equally will be at home in these destinations promising all of the above and more. South Beach, Daytona and Myrtle Beach have their perks but these small towns, nominated for Best Coastal Small Town, offer a calm and charm that is hard to find in more heavily populated areas . Mountains, hiking, and nature: Staunton is located in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley between the Blue Ridge and the Appalachian Mountains. The average price for a home in Williamsburg is just over $300,000, lower than the state median. Best Places to Live in Virginia Beach, Virginia Virginia Beach, Virginia is a popular summer destination for beachgoers and sun seekers alike. Some parts of Los Angeles do touch the Pacific Ocean, though other cities in the metro . Another one of Frommer's Best Small Towns in Virginia. 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. The scenery: Lexington is located in the Shenandoah Valley, known for its beautiful scenery. Even though Anna has lived other places, somehow Virginia is where she always seems to land. Read the Magazine Quick Facts Average Household Income $73,549 #10. When it comes to recognition, few things could be nicer than to be named one of Americas Happiest Seaside Towns. But thats exactly what Coastal Living called Smithfield in 2015. Wakefield - Population: 11,554 - Median home value: $632,600 (94% own) - Median rent: $2,877 (6% rent) - Median household. The cost of living is low, making it an excellent place for families or those on a budget. Everything you need to know about moving to a new state. Or families looking for a reasonable commute and excellent schools. What is the most scenic town in Virginia? There are also some country clubs and golf courses in the area. It offers visitors a variety of attractions, including Colonial Williamsburg and Busch Gardens amusement park. North Carolina vs Virginia Beach, Virginia Change Places . But along with the charmingly quaint historic communities of Williamsburg and Chantilly, youll find enough vibrant, fast-paced, hedonistic destinations to please even the most forward-thinking city slicker. The List: Best Places to Live in Virginia Most Recommended By Experts 1. Eat at Bills Prime Seafood & Steaks, followed by a few scoops at Island Creamery, ranked the best ice cream in America by TripAdvisor. Begin with our list of the top coastal towns in North Carolina. It is small and has a population of merely 800 or so people. There are so many great cities in Virginia that its a bit hard to make a decision. Nothing to keep you from moving there, but just something to keep in mind as you make your decision. Regardless of the other factors people consider, everyone has a budget to which they must, Read More The 20 Most Affordable Places to Live in or around New EnglandContinue. 17. 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. One quick Google search will lead you to hundreds of images depicting a bustling river, tall buildings sprouting up between thick green leafy trees and rolling hills that seem to go on forever. 1. Clifton is a charming little town located just a short drive from Washington DC. Located right on the South Carolina coast, Charleston is a tourist destination with beautiful moss-draped live oaks and gorgeous pastel-colored waterfront homes. Roanoke is the smallest city on the list regarding population, but it makes up for its size with its unique appeal. What makes Virginia such a lovely home state is that there is truly something for everyone here. You'll receive your first newsletter soon! To see Virginia's other best of the best cities, take a look below. These beach towns provide the resident and visitors a perfectly balanced beach experience. Or folks can go inland a block or two and save big bucks on a beach. The university: Blacksburg is home to Virginia Tech, which brings many cultural and economic benefits to the town. Not to mention, events like the Neptune Festival bring over 500,000 people to the city every year to spend time outside on Virginias beautiful coastline. Explore Virginia's Cities and Towns. In addition, what makes Virginia especially interesting is its military influence. 13 years ago. Incorporated in 1810 and named for Revolutionary War hero, General Joseph Warren, this town of less than 10,000 in Fauquier County was listed as the 8th highest-income county in the U.S. according to the U.S. Census Bureau. The Best Places to Live in Virginia (A 2022 Guide), Be a part of the renaissance taking place in Richmond, Soak up the sun and splash in the waves at Virginia Beach, The Best Neighborhoods for Families in Portland (Updated for 2023), The Best Suburbs in Atlanta (A 2023 Guide), Up-and-Coming Neighborhoods in Portland (Updated for 2023), The Best Neighborhoods in Jacksonville, FL (2022), Why Moving is So Stressful (And 3 Things You Can Do About It). Lovers of the great outdoors might prefer the beach or mountains, but big-city, suburban, and small-town options are also available. Several! The town's small population mainly work as watermen, harvesting fresh seafood from the surrounding Bay waters. It has become a safe haven for dreamers, aspiring artists, creatives and entrepreneurs wanting to pursue their passions without having to scrape by as they pay outlandish rent and living expenses. Portland, Maine. The states rich history gives it plenty of attractions to keep retirees busy. The metro area has a population density of 89.6 people per square. Today, Occoquan is an artists' community, featuring shops, dining, ghost walks, boating, and fishingall with brick sidewalks lit by old-fashioned gaslights. Best Waterfront Communities in Virginia - PrivateCommunities.com If you need any more convincing as to why this suburb of Arlington deserves a place on our list, why not try its low crime rate, excellent walkability, and abundance of local amenities for size? 25 Most Affordable Beach Towns in the U.S. | Far & Wide Weighing in at 244,000 residents, there are plenty of benefits of living in Norfolk. Sample fresh seafood at The Fishermans Corner Restaurant or Lorraines Seafood Restaurant. Known as the "City of Discovery," the historic coastal town of Ocean Springs is the perfect place for visitors to relax and enjoy. Whether you visit a small town for outdoor loversor head to the best foodie destinations, Virginias charming small towns welcome you to discover a unique vacation experience. Grab a bit to eat at either the Inn Garden Caf Restaurant (which is also a charming bed and breakfast), or Mallards at the Wharf, the only waterfront restaurant in Onancock. The shopping: Alexandria is home to some of the best shopping in Northern Virginia, with a number of high-end boutiques and restaurants. Access to the top of the lighthouse is open to the public during select visiting hours. 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. 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. (A quick check of the median household income will usually help you determine if you can afford the area.). The town has a rich history and a variety of attractions that make it a popular destination for tourists and families alike. The best place to live in Virginia for 2022 is Vienna. 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. Learn how your comment data is processed. The town has a rich colonial history and many historical sites and museums. This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. The 25 Best Places to Live on the East Coast in 2022-2023 12 Best Cities in Virginia to Live and Visit - Touropia We love smaller lesser-known cities that have a lot to offer. If youre looking for a beachfront break without the crowds, plan a vacation to one of these five small towns on the Eastern Shore. This one only takes up six blocks and has a population under 1,000, yes its' small. 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. #40 and #42. Most liveable beach towns in the Northeast U.S. - pennlive.com Perfect for: Young professionals looking for a short commute and great nightlife. Affordability: The nearby areas have homes below the national median home value, and you can even find acres of land at an affordable price. Although it only takes up 6 blocks and boasts a population under 1,000, this town is packed with history and surrounded by some of the most beautiful horse-country anywhere in the nation. 10 Stunningly Beautiful Virginia Beaches + Tips for Picking the Right One, 11 Gorgeous Apple Orchards in Virginia (Best VA Apple Picking!). Then get saving. Nothing on this website should be considered an offer, solicitation of an offer, or advice to buy or sell securities. La Vida Nomad | Sitemap, 11 Best Beach Towns to Live in North Carolina. This is Virginia's only resort island and is considered the most beautiful, providing plenty of space to unwind and explore. In fact, Onancock was called "the Gem of the Eastern Shore" by none other than Captain John Smith himself. The 8 Best Beaches in Virginia for Avoiding Crowds - Livability When it comes to the best small towns in Virginia, Occoquan certainly fits the bill. This article is an opinion based on facts and is meant as infotainment. With relatively low taxes, a moderate climate, plenty of beaches, and easy access to much of the East Coast, Virginia is a great place to retire or raise a family. The historic town square may only cover six square blocks, but it is home to over 100 shops and restaurants, making Occoquan a small town with big-town convenience. There are a variety of restaurants, shops, and breweries located in the town center, and its conveniently close to Washington D.C. What are the most unique towns in Virginia? Moving to Virginia | Living in Virginia - Livability Fredericksburg was established in 1671 and is located in the Northern Virginia region of the state. Another Washington, D.C. suburb, Alexandria is on the list of best places in Virginia for waterfront living. From the beautiful corners of Southwest Virginia to the far Eastern Shore, youll find some of the best and most beautiful small towns in Virginia. For Virginia Citizen And Business Services Visit www.virginia.gov. Every May, the town hosts the Heart of Virginia Festival, a festival where local businesses like Buffalo Creek Guitars come together with vendors and musicians from around the country to provide arts and crafts, traditional foods, music, and fireworks. The towns most popular place to dine is the Wachapreague Island House Restaurant, and for an overnight stay you can either book a room at the Wachapreague Inn or travel just a few miles up the road to the Garrison Bed & Breakfast. Next to my home in West Virginia, Wachapreague is my favorite place! The region offers more than 100 golf courses within 30 miles. Los Angeles. We coordinate local and long-distance moving services in Virginia and we would love to help! Virginia is known for a lot of things: history, natural beauty, (bless our hearts) lots of southern charm. Live everyday like you're on vacation in these American coastal towns with spectacular views and bargain prices. Beaufort. 6.4 Quality of Life. The tropical town on the north shore of Kauai looks out over nothing but hundreds of miles of raw Pacific. Best Beach Towns in America - 23 of the Most Charming Beach Towns Our first sell on Virginia Beach is that it sports over 38 miles of coastline. The 10 Best Places To Raise A Family In Virginia For 2022 - HomeSnacks Between VCUs world-renowned art school, affordable living and impressive career opportunities, young professionals are moving to the city in droves. That depends on your budget and preferences. Now there are small towns and then there are small towns. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Moving Company Costs Explained. When not underground in the caves . Folks who live in Norfolk are always pleasantly surprised by the work/life balance that exists in the city. There are plenty of activities, including both a senior center and Southwest Virginia Higher Education Centers College for Older Adults. Best Places to Live in Virginia Beach, Virginia Charlottesville is a town in the Commonwealth of Virginia with two high-ranking hospitals and a massive Downtown Mall. Middleburg. The economy: Roanoke has a thriving economy with plenty of job opportunities despite its small size. 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. 1. Despite spending 35 years in South Florida, my family moves every 1-2 years. 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. The best place to retire in Virginia is Martinsville. Its now Maurice., Also in Cape Charles there are several historic renovated B&Bs. This small town is known for the Martinsville . However, many people tend to agree that one of the most scenic towns in the state is Crozet. in Best Places to Live #39. in Best Places to Retire; 6 Overall Rating. Best Places 2020-2021 Rank: 126 Metro Population: 18,657,347 Median Home Price: $527,818 Average Annual Salary: $57,373 Los Angeles attracts many people for reasons other than access to the beach, but the proximity to the coast and warm, sunny weather year-round doesn't count against it. 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. 15 Best Places to Live in Virginia - The Crazy Tourist Weighing in at 244,000 residents, there are plenty of benefits of living in Norfolk. That might be true, but even great leaders can get tired of low salaries, high living costs, and kids whod rather be anywhere else, Read More The 20 Best Places for Teachers to Live in the U.S.Continue, Life as a single mom isnt always easy. For a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape, stop by the Assateague Lighthouse on the neighboring Assateague Island. The 10 Best Small Towns In Virginia For 2022 - HomeSnacks Fancy moving into one of Fairfax countys most desirable hot spots? Best Oceanfront Hotels In Virginia Beach. The Best Virginia Beach Neighborhood for Retirees - Movoto Real Estate The beautiful surroundings: The town is surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, and there are plenty of parks and nature preserves to enjoy. 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. If you're interested in retiring near the ocean without the humidity of a tropical . The towns small population mainly work as watermen, harvesting fresh seafood from the surrounding Bay waters. A small Atlantic island tucked away on the northeastern corner of Virginias Eastern Shore, Chincoteague is best known for the wild ponies found in the bordering Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge. If youre looking to make the state of Virginia your next home, you could do a lot worse than the little town of Warrenton. Dont say we didnt warn you. Here are our top picks for livability in this beautiful state. The city's downtown area also provides easy access to all D.C. metro area attractions. Some of these places are very pricey! Staunton is a small town located in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, between the Blue Ridge and the Appalachian Mountains. The housing and rent is affordable for young professionals raising kids and with being a short drive from Virginia Beach and Washington D.C., youll never run out of things to do with your kiddos. Open Saturdays and Sundays or if you catch me in the yard, I live right next door. Median Annual Income. Virginia Beach is a city in Virginia with a population of 457,658. Is Virginia a good place to retire? 18 places sorted by traveler favorites Clear all filters 1. In addition, it has a thriving arts and culture scene. It is very important to do your own analysis before making any decisions based on your own personal circumstances. Affordability: Williamsburg has a low cost of living compared to many other Virginia towns. Hampton Bays, N.Y. Hampton Bays, N.Y., ranked 160th nationally. Vivamus integer non suscipit taciti mus etiam at primis tempor sagittis euismod libero facilisi. Tangier Island lies twelve miles off the western coast of the Eastern Shore in the Chesapeake Bay and is known as America's "Soft Crab Capital". 50 best beach towns to live in - MSN But it turns out, your beach-town dream may not be as far out of reach as you think. 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. It has a thriving economy, excellent schools, plenty of recreational opportunities, and high quality of life. Where to Stay/Eat: Stay in the downtown area at the Hotel Cape Charlesor The Bay Haven Inn and get a taste of the local seafood at either The Shanty or the Oyster Farm Seafood Eatery, followed by a little dessert at Brown Dog Ice Cream. Blue Ridge, Ridge and Valley & Appalachian Plateau. Feeling inspired to check out more of Virginia's small towns? Perhaps one of the most unique areas within the state of Virginia is the town of Luray which houses Luray Caverns, the largest caverns on the East Coast. In an article by ALT Daily, a Norfolk native writes, People friend you on Facebook before connecting with you on LinkedIn, and when you meet new people, not every conversation begins with, So, what do you do for a living?. Located a stone's throw away from Charlottesville, this beautiful town nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains offers an abundance of natural beauty and outdoor activities to enjoy. Perfect for: Families or retirees who love nature and are looking for a low cost of living. Weve said it before and well say it again. As well as enjoying a median home value of $537,900 and a median household income of $93,370, the towns 154,710 lucky residents get to enjoy an abundance of stunning historic neighborhoods to wander, some great shopping opportunities, and a plethora of cultural activities for the whole family to enjoy. The Best Places To Live In Virginia And Why - OnlyInYourState Youll get all the amenities typically found in a touristy area, including plenty of restaurants and shopping. 2022 Retirable Inc. All rights reserved. Regardless of what your idea of the perfect city is, weve got something for everyone. 4. A growing population puts Blacksburg on the list of Virginias best places to live for some. Anything you cant find in Falls Church will be available in nearby D.C., which is a short 20-minute drive away. Arlington is one of the most livable areas in the country, and it ranks #3 on the Top 100 Places to Live list. The area is perhaps best known as home to Virginia Tech University, which gives you the amenities typically found in a college town without the chaos of the big city. Middleburg in Loudoun County has been listed at the top of Frommers Best Small Towns in Virginia. $171,800.0. Virginia Beach offers well, beaches. Grandview Beach, Hampton, VA. 8. Here are the best places to live in Virginia | WAVY.com The town has colonial-era architecture and a recreated 18th-century village, complete with an amusement park and shopping opportunities nearby. . The 10 Best Cities to Live in Virginia - UpNest Although the cost of living is higher than the national average, its still low when compared to other beachfront communities. Vienna is beautiful, quaint, safe, and bursting at the seams with great people. The best neighborhoods to live in Alexandria include those listed below: Taylor Run (Average Home Value: $275,000 to $1+ million) Taylor Run is an attractive area for families and young professionals with parks, restaurants, and coffee shops.