Luray, VA. 4,842. Charleston, SC. In addition to lower Virginia retirement taxes, Charlottesville also gives you plenty of culture. The median home value is $410,300, while the median rental price is $1,794. There are towns and then there are small towns. Best places to live in Virginia include Arlington, Alexandria, Abingdon, Virginia Beach, Chesapeake and Norfolk. 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). A growing population puts Blacksburg on the list of Virginia's best places to live for some. Situated on the border of Virginia and Washington, the vibrant atmosphere of Arlington makes it a hugely attractive proposition to Virginias new wave of bright young things. 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. 2. 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. At first glance, Richmond has the perfect canvas to be an amazing city. Visitors can enjoy the great outdoors with kayaking, paddle boarding . You can retire to the beach, the suburbs, a small town, or the mountains. Richmond, Virginia is yet another one of these gems weve stumbled upon, making it one of the top places to live in Virginia. Alexandria is a city located in Northern Virginia with a lot to offer residents. If you're interested in retiring near the ocean without the humidity of a tropical . Kilmarnock! With just 4.1% unemployment, a poverty rate of 4.9%, a median home value of $394,000, a median income of $105,844, and a healthy population of 51,012, the historic town of Leesburg makes it to 6th place position on our list. And if youre looking for more cute towns in Virginia, check out these charming towns in Virginia where everybody knows your name. Special events and cultural attractions will give you plenty to do. The schools: Arlington has award-winning schools, with many ranking at the top of their respective categories. Virginia Beach is a city in Virginia with a population of 457,658. 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. It served as the capital of the Virginia colony between 1699 and 1780, and today it is home to nearly 15,000 residents. The next entry to our list is one for the Golden Oldies. 14 Chincoteague. Virginia Beach offers well, beaches. Arlington is a city in Virginia that offers its residents a high quality of life. 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. Despite spending 35 years in South Florida, my family moves every 1-2 years. Perfect for retirees or anyone looking for culture combined with a low cost of living. The city of Richmond itself is lovely. Newport News, Virginia is a charming city located on the Chesapeake Bay. Middleburg is a popular town in Virginia that is located in Loudoun County. 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. The best towns in Virginia for history lovers 1. What makes it a great place to live: The University of Virginia. Perhaps one of the most obvious is that you can thrive in a great city while also being just a 30-minute drive away from Virginia Beach. Founded in 1632, the town of Williamsburg has the kind of uniquely charming historic town center you could wander for hours without getting bored. Corolla/Currituck Beach. Affordability: The cost of living is low, making it a great place to live for those on a budget. For a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape, stop by the Assateague Lighthouse on the neighboring Assateague Island. Topsail Island. Open Saturdays and Sundays or if you catch me in the yard, I live right next door. Features. The Spinning Wheel B&B and the 1882 Colonial Manor Inn B&B are both family friendly and dog friendly. 18 places sorted by traveler favorites Clear all filters 1. Sunny Places to Escape the Winter Blues. Chestertown Home to Washington College, this town's restored 18th- and 19th-century rowhouses and cobblestone streets abut the picturesque Chester River. And the people arent the only thing thats friendly rent is awfully friendly too. Edenton Edenton | Photo Copyright: Lana Law Set on Albemarle Sound, Edenton is a peaceful escape from the stress of everyday life. Retiring in Virginia means beautiful landscapes and reduced taxes. It's most famous for theUniversity of Virginia and Monticello, the home of Thomas Jefferson. Numbers 1 and 2 don't require much explanation - the population and dates speak for themselves. Folks who live in Norfolk are always pleasantly surprised by the work/life balance that exists in the city. Our first sell on Virginia Beach is that it sports over 38 miles of coastline. Vienna is beautiful, quaint, safe, and bursting at the seams with great people. You might look on the Northern Neck, in particular towns like Irvington, Kilmarnock, Montross, White Church. . 1. What makes Virginia such a lovely home state is that there is truly something for everyone here. Ocean View Beach, Norfolk, VA. 1. . 6.3 Desirability. The town also has a lively music scene and many wineries. 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. Stephanie Faris has written about finance for entrepreneurs and marketing firms since 2013. Retiring in Virginia means beautiful landscapes and reduced taxes. 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. 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. Here's a look at the highest-rated coastal towns to retire. The town has colonial-era architecture and a recreated 18th-century village, complete with an amusement park and shopping opportunities nearby. 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. Living in Norfolk is roughly half of what it costs to live in Washington D.C. A one bedroom spot in Washington D.C. is going to cost you about $2,000, whereas a one bedroom in Norfolk is going run just $1,000/month. Few people who know Chincoteague Island will argue with this towns reign as one of the best towns in Virginia. Known as the "City of Discovery," the historic coastal town of Ocean Springs is the perfect place for visitors to relax and enjoy. Portland, Maine. Thanks to an excellent job market, two of Virginias most famous malls (Tysons Galleria and Tysons Corner Center for the uninitiated), a close to zero crime rate, excellent schools, and a buzzing nightlife, the residents of Tysons Corner are only too aware theyre sitting on real estate dynamite. The town also has a lively music scene and many wineries. Learn more about the, Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Southwest Virginia, Abingdon has been listed as #5 on CitiesJournals Top 14 Small Towns in Virginia, #5 on Frommers Top Small Towns and Villages in Virginia, and one of USA Todays Best Southern Small Towns in the U.S. nominees. Everything you need to know about moving to a new state. Median Home Value: $87,700. $51,747.0. The facility also has a free museum where you can learn about previous rocket launches and the science behind the missions. Hampton Bays, N.Y. Hampton Bays, N.Y., ranked 160th nationally. . The charming town center: Downtown Fredericksburg offers a variety of restaurants, shops, and breweries. Updated: Jan 16, 2020. Springfield, Massachusetts Best Places 2022-2023 Rank: 117 Metro Population: 698,537 Median Home Price: $333,741 Average Annual Salary: $55,710 Located in western Massachusetts, Springfield is. Sign up for travel tips and inspiration delivered right to your inbox. Then get saving. The recreation: If you love outdoor activities, youll be in heaven in Roanoke. 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. Perfect for: families with a high-income looking for a small-town feel with easy access to Federal government jobs. 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. 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. Hello, everyone who enjoys and appreciates our USA, the coastal VA rugged life style and its rich history Residents benefit from a booming economy, an unemployment rate of 3.6%, a health-conscious culture, and the lowest tax rate in the Hampton Roads region. It has all the amenities and attractions you would expect from a larger city while still maintaining a close-knit community feel. Where to Stay/Eat: Book a stay at the Charlotte Hotel, a cute boutique retreat in the heart of downtown Onancock. Virginia's small towns, unique cities, and notable neighborhoods are treasure troves of great food, warm hospitality, immense history, and Southern charm. http://www.burnhamguides.com/virginia Also, Inn and Garden Cafe is closed. The poverty rate may be slightly higher than some of our other entries (although at 8.0%, its still lower than the national average), but with a low unemployment rate of 5.3%, a median income of $70,500, and a median home value of $267,300, its fair to say the majority of residents are in no danger of feeling the pinch any time soon. 5.9 Job Market. Number 3: it's one of the best neighborhoods in Virginia Beach. Grandview Beach, Hampton, VA. 8. We and our partners share information on your use of this website to help improve your experience. Fancy moving into one of Fairfax countys most desirable hot spots? . Living in Virginia Beach offers residents a dense suburban feel and most residents own their homes. Virginia Beach 3,092 Beaches By JustCho2 Holiday Inn in Exmore is pet friendly.It is about Midway up the VA Eastern Shore. The 20 Best Places for Single Moms to Live in Europe, The 10 Cheapest Places to Live in Wisconsin, The 20 Most Affordable Places to Live in or around New England, A reviewer on City-Data.com summed things up, How Zac Stacy Achieved a Net Worth of $6 Million. 158,309 16. Read the Magazine Quick Facts Average Household Income $73,549 The schools: Youll have access to a first-class school system. The downtown area has lots of local shops carrying everything from handcrafted jewelry to homemade ice cream. This one only takes up six blocks and has a population under 1,000, yes its' small. The town is also home to the University of Mary Washington, which offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs. Why its one of the best places to live in Virginia: The scenery: Roanoke is nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, so the views are absolutely stunning. The University of Virginia is located right in the heart of town and has some of the best academics in the country, and it provides plenty of jobs. Winchester is one of the best towns to live in Virginia if you prefer to be close to D.C. and the airport. Number 1: it's one of the newest neighborhoods in Virginia Beach. 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. 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. But, outside from the beaches, the city as a whole sports a very outdoor-centric culture. In Virginia Beach there are a lot of restaurants, coffee . Centrally located on the Chesapeake Bay side of the Eastern Shore, Onancock is an inviting small town that was founded in 1680. It is affordable with excellent healthcare and education systems. Sure, theres a lot of farms, and yes, theres a lot of cows. 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. Studded with awe-inspiring landscapes, crammed with wildlife, and blessed with some of the most diverse, vibrant cities on the continent, it offers, Read More The 20 Best Places to Live in South AfricaContinue, They say that behind every good teacher is a great leader. Wed love to hear from you! If youre a history buff, the state has plenty to offer there, as well. Corrections for the Onancock section: Burnham Guides rents kayaks, SUPs and does tours from the historic Steamboat Ticket Office at Onancock Wharf. 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, it has a thriving arts and culture scene. Just across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel, Cape Charles is an idyllic small town that exudes endless character. This company Harbor Rental in chincoteague has many different size homes that are pet friendly. What about it do you like most? This small town is known for the Martinsville . The median home value is $410,300, while the median rental price is $1,794. For lake living you can look at Moneta and Huddleston, both near Smith Mountain Lake. . If youre looking for a charming community with plenty of conveniences, Fredericksburg may be the right place for you. By using this website, you accept our Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy. The city known for being one of the most historical places in the United States its actually among one of our countrys oldest major cities is now taking on a completely new face. Middleburg in Loudoun County has been listed at the top of Frommers Best Small Towns in Virginia. Fintech company SmartAsset compared data for 218 beach towns and put together a list of the most affordable 50.. This suburb of Washington, D.C. is one of the best places to retire in Virginia for those who like access to shops and restaurants. Explore Virginia's Cities and Towns. Local tip: Summer means root-beer floats at Durding's Store (5742 N. Main St.; 410-778-7957), an old-time ice-cream parlor in a building that dates to the 1870s. The cost of childcare, healthcare, and housing quickly racks up, especially when youre living on a single income. For the residents, the booming tourist trade translates to an abundance of excellent recreational and leisure pursuits (including the famous Busch Gardens amusement park), a high median home value, excellent job opportunities, and a place at number 13 on our list. 6. Arlington is a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family. Dont say we didnt warn you. Radford. As such, its important that you pick a place with all the features and amenities that are most important to you. As youd expect, unemployment and poverty figures are both correspondingly low, coming in at 5.3% and 3.8% respectively. The 20 Best Places to Live in South Africa. Lovers of the great outdoors might prefer the beach or mountains, but big-city, suburban, and small-town options are also available. Sandbridge. Oak Island. But when you think of America's great beach towns, like the Hamptons, Miami, Malibu, Hilton Head, among many others, we get snapped right back into reality rather quickly the cost of living in these spectacular beach towns is pretty darn high! The historic downtown offers an array of specialty shops, boutiques, art galleries, antiques, and more, along with a surprisingly large selection of local restaurants and cafes. The recreational opportunities: Arlington is home to several great parks, including the famous Pentagon Row and Ballston Commons. A small town can be anything from a couple of hundred people to 10,000. The cost of living is also low, making it a great place to live for those on a budget. The waterfront region is one of the best-kept secrets in the Commonwealth, boasting gorgeous beaches, incredible wildlife, and serene communities that welcome visitors to discover their quiet charm. 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. There are so many great cities in Virginia that its a bit hard to make a decision. #10. 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. Virginia has dozens of small towns that offer endless charm, hospitality, and memorable adventures. Although the town prides itself on its slower pace, the population is one of the fastest-growing in the area. These are river towns and not very touristy at all. It boasts the National Wildlife Refuge and cute ponies. Ocean lovers will feel right at home in beautiful Virginia Beach. Virginia Economic Development Partnership Visit www.vedp.org. Four hospitals and plenty of medical offices will help you keep your healthcare options open. The first state to be settled in 1607, Virginia has a rich history, culture and heritage to delve into lots of spellbinding scenery. Chincoteague, Virginia. Virginia Beach is in Virginia Beach City County and is one of the best places to live in Virginia. The town was historically a bustling port town, with steamboats traveling between Baltimore and Norfolk stopping in the waterfront community for supplies and rest. Easton Looking for the top place to live in Virginia? The best hidden gems and little known destinations - straight to your inbox. And its no wonder. Today, Chincoteague (and sister island, Assateague) is best known for its Annual Pony Swim and Auction but also offers pristine beaches, amazing seafood, boat tours, home tours, and an all-around chilled-out beach town experience. 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. Virginia staff writer for Only in Your State, freelance writer and journalist. This is our ninth time ranking the best small places to live in Virginia. That depends on your budget and preferences. The location: Alexandria is situated right at the top of Virginia and is a short commute away from Washington D.C. This provides plenty of opportunities for hiking, nature walks, and other outdoor activities. Some quick facts about Centreville: the median income is $107,605. Need further convincing? 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. With this state, the most difficult roadblock youll run into will be choosing which amazing city to call home. Best Beach Towns in America - 23 of the Most Charming Beach Towns. Less than an hour from Roanoke is this small town. The history: If youre a fan of American history, then youll love living in Williamsburg. Learn how your comment data is processed. The towns small population mainly work as watermen, harvesting fresh seafood from the surrounding Bay waters. History and culture make Roanoke a great location for your Virginia state retirement. Charlottesville is a town in the Commonwealth of Virginia with two high-ranking hospitals and a massive Downtown Mall. Vienna. The beautiful surroundings: The town is surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, and there are plenty of parks and nature preserves to enjoy. A national poll voted Chincoteague as America's seventh favorite small town. $171,800.0. During the spring, fall and summer months, everywhere you look people can be seen rollerblading, skimboarding, paddleboarding, kayaking and walking their dogs. Weve said it before and well say it again. Some of these places are very pricey! SouthEast Expeditions offers an Aqua-Culture Clamming tour along Cherrystone Creek, just north of Cape Charles. Or folks can go inland a block or two and save big bucks on a beach. Virginia is known for a lot of things: history, natural beauty, (bless our hearts) lots of southern charm. Nothing on this website should be considered an offer, solicitation of an offer, or advice to buy or sell securities. The cities in Virginia are as beautiful and diverse as the state itself. 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.