The cost of childcare, healthcare, and housing quickly racks up, especially when youre living on a single income. The cities in Virginia are as beautiful and diverse as the state itself. The houses and neighborhoods are beautiful, the people are friendly, and its wonderful to have such good neighbors. Arlington is one of the most livable areas in the country, and it ranks #3 on the Top 100 Places to Live list. 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. 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. Percentage of the Population Over 65: 18.7%. It is small and has a population of merely 800 or so people. And, finally, if youre into great food and craft beer, Norfolk is the place for you. 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. 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. If youre trying to decide where to live in Virginia, theres no shortage of appealing options. Population. A reviewer on City-Data.com summed things up best with the comment, We feel incredibly safe in Salem. 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. Abingdon, named after Martha Washingtons ancestral home in England, became a town in 1778 and today its historic downtown is home to a thriving arts and culture scene, featuring venues like the historic Barter Theatre, as well as galleries, museums, and markets. 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. Is Virginia a good place to retire? The end result? Dont worry though, locals say you get pretty accustomed to the shrieks and roars of the jets knifing their way through the sky. Its most famous for theUniversity of Virginia and Monticello, the home of Thomas Jefferson. We know. 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. This riverside town may have a population of less than 1,000, but it does not fall short of charm. The Spinning Wheel B&B and the 1882 Colonial Manor Inn B&B are both family friendly and dog friendly. Explore Virginia's Cities and Towns. Features. Choosing where to live is one of the biggest decisions youll make for yourself and your family. 1. All are walking distance to restaurants and shops! in Best Places to Live #39. in Best Places to Retire; 6 Overall Rating. According to Livability, Charlottesville ranks as one of the top 100 best places to live in the entire US. For Virginia Citizen And Business Services Visit www.virginia.gov. Few people who know Chincoteague Island will argue with this towns reign as one of the best towns in Virginia. But, more than this, Richmond is for young professionals too with 7 fortunate 500 companies headquartered there, the opportunity for career growth is endless. Retiring in Virginia means beautiful landscapes and reduced taxes. The 20 Best Places for Teachers to Live in the U.S. The median home value is $410,300, while the median rental price is $1,794. How long will $100,000 last me in retirement. Coastal Plain. 1. Jump in your car and drive 137 miles Southeast of Richmond and youll find another city in Virginia. Best Places to Live | Compare cost of living, crime, cities, schools and more. The best place to retire in Virginia is Martinsville. Central Virginia This digital edition of the Central Virginia is sponsored by Central Virginia Partnership. Lifelong watermen and weekend sailors alike head to Rock Hall for its nautical flavor, complete with marinas, a small beach, and waterfront crabhouses. History buffs will love the historic sites and museums at every turn. 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. Luray. The List: Best Places to Live in Virginia Most Recommended By Experts 1. Despite its tiny size, Bridgewater has more to its name than many towns twice its size, with enough by way of leisure and recreational facilities to keep even the most demanding city slicker happy. 1. There are also some country clubs and golf courses in the area. At first glance, Richmond has the perfect canvas to be an amazing city. Perfect for: Families who want a close-knit community feel or nature lovers who want to live in a beautiful setting. SouthEast Expeditions offers an Aqua-Culture Clamming tour along Cherrystone Creek, just north of Cape Charles. Norfolk is a great place for families. The locals like to call it CBVB and they 35 miles of sandy beach along the Potomac River. Charleston is a popular choice for those seeking an East Coast locale with warm . Several! Median Income: $81,263. Portland, Maine. In addition, what makes Virginia especially interesting is its military influence. Williamsburg is a town in Virginia founded back in 1632. Our first sell on Virginia Beach is that it sports over 38 miles of coastline. Virginia is without a doubt one of the best places to live. Chestertown Home to Washington College, this town's restored 18th- and 19th-century rowhouses and cobblestone streets abut the picturesque Chester River. Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 66. Youll find everything from charming mountain towns to urban areas buzzing with life. Everything you need to know about moving to a new state. 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. What are your thoughts on our list of the 10 best small towns in Virginia? Check out esvatourism.org There is a tab for lodging, then a pic of a dog, click on that and you will see them. She spent nearly a year as a writer for a credit card processing service and has written about finance for numerous marketing firms and entrepreneurs. This influx of hipsters is having a massive impact on the culture of Richmond in some fabulous ways. #10. For a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape, stop by the Assateague Lighthouse on the neighboring Assateague Island. Clarksville On the shore of 78sqmi (202sqkm) Kerr Lake, Clarksville is the only lakeside town in Virginia. 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. 6.3 Desirability. Look it up. There is also plenty to do outdoors, with miles of coastline for beach-goers, camping grounds, and trails for . Virginia has its share of suburban sprawl and terrible traffic, but its still a great place to call home. Clifton is a charming little town located just a short drive from Washington DC. The Middleburg Historic District, made up of many beautifully preserved 18th and 19th-century buildings, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and includes the Red Fox Inn. If you dont like the heat, you may want to consider another town.). Their web site has section that shows only pet friendly rental. Perfect for: young professionals looking for culture and beauty with home and rent prices around the national average. Retirable specializes in helping people come up with a plan that will ensure theyre well prepared for their later years. Charlottesville is a town in the Commonwealth of Virginia with two high-ranking hospitals and a massive Downtown Mall. . The town's small population mainly work as watermen, harvesting fresh seafood from the surrounding Bay waters. 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 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. 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. . Another one of Frommer's Best Small Towns in Virginia. The city's downtown area also provides easy access to all D.C. metro area attractions. This small town is known for the Martinsville . It offers visitors a variety of attractions, including Colonial Williamsburg and Busch Gardens amusement park. North Carolina vs Virginia Beach, Virginia Change Places . http://www.burnhamguides.com/virginia Also, Inn and Garden Cafe is closed. 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. Download The Entire Virginia Ranking Data. Visit former Native American villages, kayak to local wineries, and go sailing. I fully agree, I was born here and still here. The cost of living is also low, making it a great place to live for those on a budget. Hanalei Bay, HI (Photo: Eli Duke via Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0) Hawaii has enough charming beach towns to fill out this entire list twice over but Hanalei is in a league of its own. Yorktown Beach, Yorktown, VA. It is affordable with excellent healthcare and education systems. The old town area is home to colonial-era architecture and cobblestone streets, giving you a real taste of American history. Stephanie Faris has written about finance for entrepreneurs and marketing firms since 2013. Weve said it before and well say it again. The locals are really nice and are generally accepting of college students. Easton The town was historically a bustling port town, with steamboats traveling between Baltimore and Norfolk stopping in the waterfront community for supplies and rest. Ocean lovers will feel right at home in beautiful Virginia Beach. The city is changing. To find the cities where Black Americans fare best economically, SmartAsset looked at the 200 . This is Virginia's only resort island and is considered the most beautiful, providing plenty of space to unwind and explore. Check out the web site or call them +1 800-221-5059. Tangier Island lies twelve miles off the western coast of the Eastern Shore in the Chesapeake Bay and is known as Americas Soft Crab Capital. With a well-funded school system and a peaceful, close-knit feel, it makes a great place to raise a family. Throughout the city, youll find hundreds of sculptures of mermaids, the citys unofficial mascot of sorts. What is the most scenic town in Virginia? 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?. Middleburg. 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. 2022 Retirable Inc. All rights reserved. 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. 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. Blue Ridge, Ridge and Valley & Appalachian Plateau. The University of Virginia. 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. 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. A bustling 65-plus population makes Abingdon one of the best towns in Virginia for retirees. People watch out for each other here, they teach their children to be respectful of others and things.. Located right on the South Carolina coast, Charleston is a tourist destination with beautiful moss-draped live oaks and gorgeous pastel-colored waterfront homes. More interested in shopping? The beautiful surroundings: The town is surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, and there are plenty of parks and nature preserves to enjoy. 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. Arlington. Winchester is one of the best towns to live in Virginia if you prefer to be close to D.C. and the airport. With that said, the one downside of Richmond is that there is a slightly higher crime rate there than the other two cities. A commute to DC is possible from here, but its a long drive with lots of traffic. 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. Regent University. 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. The charming town center: Downtown Fredericksburg offers a variety of restaurants, shops, and breweries. When it comes to the best small towns in Virginia, Occoquan certainly fits the bill. Monterey is ripe for niche tourism, with beautiful country homes, old churches, nearby hiking trails and the annual Highland Maple Festival, which takes place each March. Virginia Beach. Even though Anna has lived other places, somehow Virginia is where she always seems to land. This is one of the most expensive areas in the state. Of its population of 74,627, 23% have a masters degree or higher, 34% have a bachelors degree, and a further 21% have a college or associate degree. Beach lovers looking for the best cities to live in Virginia will likely gravitate toward Virginia Beach. 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. The historic downtown: Stauntons historic downtown district is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Be sure to share your thoughts with us and join in on the conversation by leaving a comment. By using this website, you accept our Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy. The cities also had to have a population of at least 12,000. Hello, everyone who enjoys and appreciates our USA, the coastal VA rugged life style and its rich history 1. The 46 Most Quaint and Charming Beach Towns in America For Your Best Vacation Yet. While the en Kilmarnock! Lined with historic homes and buildings, the streets of Lexington retain the beauty of days gone by, making it easy to see why this town has been recognized by both Frommers and CitiesJournal as one of Virginias Best Small Towns. It has all the amenities and attractions you would expect from a larger city while still maintaining a close-knit community feel. Live everyday like you're on vacation in these American coastal towns with spectacular views and bargain prices. 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. #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. 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). Roanoke is the smallest city on the list regarding population, but it makes up for its size with its unique appeal. But the state does have a slightly higher cost of living than some areas of the country. Alexandria is located right at the states northern tip and borders the Potomac River with Washington D.C. (A quick check of the median household income will usually help you determine if you can afford the area.). Next: 10. Fort Monroe Beach, Hampton VA. 7. Begin with our list of the top coastal towns in North Carolina. Best North Carolina Beaches. But it turns out, your beach-town dream may not be as far out of reach as you think. The downtown area has lots of local shops carrying everything from handcrafted jewelry to homemade ice cream. But what sets it apart is the feeling of community and camaraderie you get when youre there. Rock Hall. 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. How many of these quaint towns in Virginia have you visited? We are not at all surprised. The schools are excellent, and the town has a close-knit community feel. I even used Bellhop to move from Florida to Colorado in 2021. 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. 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. 100. Arlington is a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family. They have the 2nd longest beach in all of Virginia, right behind Virginia Beach. If youre looking for a beachfront break without the crowds, plan a vacation to one of these five small towns on the Eastern Shore. Located in the Shenandoah Valley, Staunton is a city that has much to offer its residents. 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. Affordability: Williamsburg has a low cost of living compared to many other Virginia towns. During the spring, fall and summer months, everywhere you look people can be seen rollerblading, skimboarding, paddleboarding, kayaking and walking their dogs. 2/15. The sculptures are a fun way to decorate the city while also honoring its maritime roots. 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. Williamsburg is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. Helpful Statistics: Median Age: 40 years. We and our partners share information on your use of this website to help improve your experience. Other Virginia towns that ranked in the list of 150 were Cape Charles, which ranked 37th and Warrenton, which ranked . Special events and cultural attractions will give you plenty to do. And its no wonder. 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 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). More than 175 colleges and universities are in the Commonwealth. 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. Arlington is a city in Virginia that offers its residents a high quality of life. Pelican Beach, Destin. 2. They were ranked according to their median home value, average number of rooms per house, median monthly property taxes paid and monthly housing costs. . These are river towns and not very touristy at all. The town is full of historical sights and cultural attractions to ensure you always have something to do. 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. Fancy moving into one of Fairfax countys most desirable hot spots? Its becoming something new. Fintech company SmartAsset compared data for 218 beach towns and put together a list of the most affordable 50.. Middleburg in Loudoun County has been listed at the top of Frommer's Best Small Towns in Virginia. That may mean low crime rates, proximity to work or school, good schools for your children, or even just affordability. Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 344. Grandview Beach, Hampton, VA. 8. 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. 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. Check out this article that highlights 11 of the most beautiful places to see in Virginia. And, Richmond is weird and unique in the best kind of ways. Four hospitals and plenty of medical offices will help you keep your healthcare options open. Perfect for: Families who want a safe and affordable place to live or retirees looking for a quiet and beautiful town to spend their golden years. In fact, Onancock was called "the Gem of the Eastern Shore" by none other than Captain John Smith himself. 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. 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. The town is known for its high quality of life and a great place to raise children. 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. As the tenth oldest state in the country, youd expect it to have its share of wealthy, sedate centers, and youd be right. Lexington is a beautiful town to call home: full of historic buildings and southern charm.