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. 2/15. The 20 Best Places for Teachers to Live in the U.S. 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. 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. The 20 Best Places to Live in South Africa. 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. Average Annual Rainfall. 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. 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. The Hotel Cape Charles on Main Street innCape Charles is dog friendly and a great spot! However, many people tend to agree that one of the most scenic towns in the state is Crozet. 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. Great location just a short walk from the wildlife refuge with nicely appointed rooms and decks/patios. Are there any that you believe should be on this list? Dinner Recipes. Required fields are marked *. Live everyday like you're on vacation in these American coastal towns with spectacular views and bargain prices. 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. Of course, the same is true for nearly every place in Virginia. The remote island is only accessible by plane or boat, with a ferry bringing visitors from Onancock on the Eastern Shore and Reedville from the mainland, and the islands inhabitants travel Tangiers short series of roads by foot, bicycle, or golf cart. Kayakers learn about aquaculture practices and tour a working clam farm, then hand pick their own clams straight from the Bay waters to sample the tasty results. The Spinning Wheel B&B and the 1882 Colonial Manor Inn B&B are both family friendly and dog friendly. 3. Eat at Bills Prime Seafood & Steaks, followed by a few scoops at Island Creamery, ranked the best ice cream in America by TripAdvisor. 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. Williamsburg is a town in Virginia founded back in 1632. 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. Beaufort. 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. #10. This one only takes up six blocks and has a population under 1,000, yes its' small. When not underground in the caves . Retirables retirement calculator helps to project how much monthly retirement income your retirement nest egg can produce while ensuring your savings last as long as you need. Martinsville. 2. The scenery: The town is in the Blue Ridge Mountains, so the views are absolutely stunning. To narrow down the most family friendly cities in Virginia, we looked at several factors: crime, education, family friendly activities and percent of households that currently have children. There are a variety of restaurants, shops, and breweries located in the town center, and its conveniently close to Washington D.C. The scenery: Lexington is located in the Shenandoah Valley, known for its beautiful scenery. Come Visit! 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. This experience has given me a lot of knowledge in what questions to ask when selecting a mover and how to prepare for a move. We coordinate local and long-distance moving services in Virginia and we would love to help! Coastal properties in Mississippi, Texas, and Florida are among the most affordable homes near the water anywhere in the country. This means that there are plenty of job opportunities for Arlington residents. Features. Another Washington, D.C. suburb, Alexandria is on the list of best places in Virginia for waterfront living. 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. If you dont like the heat, you may want to consider another town.). Stephanie Faris has written about finance for entrepreneurs and marketing firms since 2013. The cities in Virginia are as beautiful and diverse as the state itself. This is our ninth time ranking the best small places to live in Virginia. 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. Number 1: it's one of the newest neighborhoods in Virginia Beach. 10. Ocean lovers will feel right at home in beautiful Virginia Beach. Retiring in Virginia means beautiful landscapes and reduced taxes. Learn how your comment data is processed. Median Annual Income. 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. Piedmont. The large 65-plus population means youll have plenty to do, including gatherings at community centers. Here are four Virginia Beach neighborhoods that you should take a look at if you're planning on retiring in Virginia Beach. And, as always, if you find yourself needing a helping hand as youre packing for your big move, dont hesitate to give us a call. 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. The best small towns in Virginia are some of the most delightful locales in the country. Perfect for: Young professionals looking for a short commute and great nightlife. "Enjoy the abundant outdoor destinations to relax, exercise, and . Four hospitals and plenty of medical offices will help you keep your healthcare options open. I spend my free time with my family, hiking, exploring breweries and new restaurants in the area. Sunny Places to Escape the Winter Blues. The cities also had to have a population of at least 12,000. Affordability: Williamsburg has a low cost of living compared to many other Virginia towns. In addition, 22 percent of the residents are 65 years and over. 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 less than an hour from Washington, D.C., and only 35 minutes from Dulles Airport, it provides a perfect blend of new and old, urban and historical. Then get saving. The best place to retire in Virginia is Martinsville. Weighing in at 244,000 residents, there are plenty of benefits of living in Norfolk. Your email address will not be published. The first state to be settled in 1607, Virginia has a rich history, culture and heritage to delve into lots of spellbinding scenery. Williamsburg is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. Best beach towns in Virginia - 010110010101101 - Shutterstock But the Commonwealth is also home to many beach towns that are, more or less, beach cities, like Norfolk and VA Beach. And the people arent the only thing thats friendly rent is awfully friendly too. Home Living like a local The Best Places to Live in Virginia (A 2022 Guide). Next: 10. It's possible to find a four-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom townhome with ocean views, right on the sand starting around $300,000. And so, without further ado, we give you The 15 best places to live in Virginia. http://www.burnhamguides.com/virginia Also, Inn and Garden Cafe is closed. Its also home to Virginia Tech, which brings even more to the local economy. This is true, but it also just so happens to be a wonderful place to call home, too. 7). The downtown: Lexington has a charming and historic downtown district worth exploring. Garden and Sea Inn Bed and Breakfast is pet-friendly. It has a small historic downtown and is surrounded by horse farms and elegant homes. Located in Historic Yorktown, Yorktown Beach offers guests both a relaxing day on the water and an energetic night at Riverwalk Landing, a popular dining and shopping experience for beachgoers. 2022 Retirable Inc. All rights reserved. Sun Set Beach Resort, Cape Charles. Easy, Cheap, 30-Minute (or Faster!) Re: smaller coastal towns. Just FYI, you used the photo of Cape Charles for your entry on Wachapreague. Check out this road trip that will take you to 6 of the most scenic small towns in Virginia. Fredericksburg is a historic town in Virginia preserved and revitalized in recent years. The best towns in Virginia for history lovers 1. With that said, the one downside of Richmond is that there is a slightly higher crime rate there than the other two cities. Download The Entire Virginia Ranking Data. 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. Be sure to share your thoughts with us and join in on the conversation by leaving a comment. Arlington is a city in Virginia that offers its residents a high quality of life. Centrally located on the Chesapeake Bay side of the Eastern Shore, Onancock is an inviting small town that was founded in 1680. Look it up. We love smaller lesser-known cities that have a lot to offer. Ocean View Beach, Norfolk, VA. 1. Lake Charles' cost of living is 11.1% lower than the national average, tied for the ninth-lowest index among coastal metro areas. Just 25 miles west of Virginia Beach exists the state's second largest city, Norfolk. The town has colonial-era architecture and a recreated 18th-century village, complete with an amusement park and shopping opportunities nearby. Today, the town is filled with stunning Victorian-era homes and local boutique shops. Or just sit in a pub on the water and listen to live music. 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. Richmond, Virginia is for those that march to the beat of their own drums. The University of Virginia. The location: Clifton is close enough to Washington DC for a quick commute but far enough away that you can escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Beach lovers looking for the best cities to live in Virginia will likely gravitate toward Virginia Beach. 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. In addition, what makes Virginia especially interesting is its military influence. Up next we have Purcellville, a relatively small town that is so in demand, homeowners can charge a stonking $426,500 for their properties. Winchester is one of the best towns to live in Virginia if you prefer to be close to D.C. and the airport. With stunning mountain ranges, superb beaches and vibrant cities, Virginia has it all. Less than an hour from Roanoke is this small town. The jailhouse and courthouse that served as the earliest beginnings of the town in 1790 have both been beautifully preserved and now serve as museum buildings housing Native American artifacts, Civil War exhibits featuring Colonel John S. Mosby (a Warrenton resident), and original jail cells. 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. 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. While the word "literally" is often used incorrectly, in this case, Farmville sits just south of the geographic center of the state, meaning that it is "literally" in the heart of Virginia. The best American east coast beach towns to live in are the following: Daytona Beach, Florida. If youre a history buff, the state has plenty to offer there, as well. We went with our fur baby and had fun. It has the seventh-highest median Black household income, at roughly $65,600, and the sixth-highest 2019 Black labor force participation rate, at 78.7%. In addition to lower Virginia retirement taxes, Charlottesville also gives you plenty of culture. The schools are excellent, and the town has a close-knit community feel. Fort Monroe Beach, Hampton VA. 7. Wakefield - Population: 11,554 - Median home value: $632,600 (94% own) - Median rent: $2,877 (6% rent) - Median household. However, the competition was fierce to say the least. Open Saturdays and Sundays or if you catch me in the yard, I live right next door. This small town is known for the Martinsville . Looking for the top place to live in Virginia? 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. Grandview Beach, Hampton, VA. 8. 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. 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. Blacksburg is a small town located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. The tropical town on the north shore of Kauai looks out over nothing but hundreds of miles of raw Pacific. Most residents own their homes here and there is a small-town feel in the middle of the city. And if youre looking for more cute towns in Virginia, check out these charming towns in Virginia where everybody knows your name. Its a short drive to Washington DC, and public transit is available. The town combines history with big-city life, bringing buildings from the 1700s together with shopping and dining. Local tip: Evergrain Bread Company (201-203 High St.; 410-778-3333) has some of the flakiest croissants this side of the Seine. 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. Yorktown Beach, Yorktown, VA. Hanalei, HI. La Vida Nomad | Sitemap, 11 Best Beach Towns to Live in North Carolina. 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. Affordability: The nearby areas have homes below the national median home value, and you can even find acres of land at an affordable price. Charlottesville is a town in the Commonwealth of Virginia with two high-ranking hospitals and a massive Downtown Mall. Named from an Algonquian Indian word meaning "at the end of the water, the town was founded in 1765 with the construction of grist mills and tobacco warehouses. Here are our top picks for livability in this beautiful state. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. Its becoming something new. Best Places to Live in Newport News, Virginia. Portland, Maine. 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. 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. Dont say we didnt warn you. The cost of living is low, making it an excellent place for families or those on a budget. We and our partners share information on your use of this website to help improve your experience. But, outside from the beaches, the city as a whole sports a very outdoor-centric culture. Next to my home in West Virginia, Wachapreague is my favorite place! 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. Me, just bought a teensy spot outside Boydton, n am SO excited not only about that, but the many upcoming adventures both in the County, and Coast feel very privileged to become a Virginia resident, a State with such a rich history and the folks who live here their stateSmiles to you ALL! Founded in 1732, this lovely little town in the Shenandoah Valley offers historic architecture, culture, and a friendly down-home atmosphere that makes its place in the rankings well-deserved. Lovers of the great outdoors might prefer the beach or mountains, but big-city, suburban, and small-town options are also available. We are not at all surprised. Another one of Frommer's Best Small Towns in Virginia. The Inn at Onancock loves dogs, and your pup can meet the resident, Dante, the friendly Shepherd. But it turns out, your beach-town dream may not be as far out of reach as you think. Middleburg in Loudoun County has been listed at the top of Frommers Best Small Towns in Virginia. 1. Sure, theres a lot of farms, and yes, theres a lot of cows. The town's small population mainly work as watermen, harvesting fresh seafood from the surrounding Bay waters. The schools: Lexington has excellent schools and is home to Washington and Lee University, one of the gorgeous Virginia colleges. North Carolina vs Virginia Beach, Virginia Change Places . You don't even have to leave the U.S. for a warm weather getaway. The cost of childcare, healthcare, and housing quickly racks up, especially when youre living on a single income. 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. Here's a look at the highest-rated coastal towns to retire. If you're interested in retiring near the ocean without the humidity of a tropical . Chincoteague, Virginia. Population. Check out esvatourism.org There is a tab for lodging, then a pic of a dog, click on that and you will see them. Its excellent school system and low crime numbers, meanwhile, make it one of the most attractive places on our list for raising a family. The weather: It hardly ever snows here, making it an excellent spot for summer lovers. 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 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. Lifelong watermen and weekend sailors alike head to Rock Hall for its nautical flavor, complete with marinas, a small beach, and waterfront crabhouses. 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. Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 344. I fully agree, I was born here and still here. Median Home Value: $87,700. Numbers 1 and 2 don't require much explanation - the population and dates speak for themselves. Located just 35 minutes away from the thrills and spills of Washington DC, Herndon is a place where families can raise their kids in peace, quiet and safety, while still enjoying easy access to the sites, jobs, shopping activities, and cultural delights of the big city. Town Center of Virginia Beach and Lynnhaven Mall. Free beaches and state parks, decent home prices with the perks of living in a big city, and lots of fun things to do for families and singles. Kailua, Hawaii. As the tenth oldest state in the country, youd expect it to have its share of wealthy, sedate centers, and youd be right. The median rent is $1,951, and the median home price is a steep $598,500. Now there are small towns and then there are small towns. What is the best coastal town to live in North Carolina? History buffs will love the historic sites and museums at every turn. Visit former Native American villages, kayak to local wineries, and go sailing. 1. 6. The retirement hub is Hilton Head, with many upscale communities aimed at retiring baby boomers. 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. Roanoke is the smallest city on the list regarding population, but it makes up for its size with its unique appeal. The recreational opportunities: Arlington is home to several great parks, including the famous Pentagon Row and Ballston Commons. Wed love to hear from you! Located next to High Bridge Trail State Park and home to Longwood University, one of the nations oldest public institutions, Farmville is filled with history, quaint charm, friendly people, and high quality of life. Population: 23,204 Home Price: $1,390,500 median purchase price; $2,028 median monthly rent Crime Rate: Safer than 31% of cities in the U.S. 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. 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. All are walking distance to restaurants and shops! Situated right at the top of Virginia and bordering the Potomac River, which separates it from Washington, D.C., Alexandria is one of the most historical cities in the state. The quality of life: The town has a high quality of life, with low crime rates and excellent schools. . 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. If you love nature, youll feel right at home here. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Since each person has different budget requirements, your retirement planning will be different from someone else. 100. Granted, Richmond may not be the best for families or seniors, but if youre an up and coming member of Generation Y, youll find its vibrant nightlife, affordable housing, excellent job prospects (at the last count, the city was home to 8 Fortune 500 companies, while the government, finance, and higher education sectors all offer some exceptional job prospects), stunning parks and excellent transportation network combine to make a very attractive proposition indeed. These are river towns and not very touristy at all. Choosing where to live is one of the biggest decisions youll make for yourself and your family. And, Richmond is weird and unique in the best kind of ways. And like most of the best places to retire in Virginia, Vienna provides several opportunities to bask in nature and stay active. Your email address will not be published. Virginia has its share of suburban sprawl and terrible traffic, but its still a great place to call home. 46.5" 15. The downtown area has lots of local shops carrying everything from handcrafted jewelry to homemade ice cream. History buffs cant go wrong with Williamsburg, which is one of the oldest cities in the country.
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