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. Several! 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. 3/15. For more information, see our Form ADV Part II and other disclosures. Perfect for: young professionals looking for culture and beauty with home and rent prices around the national average. "The area boasts access to over 10 beaches, including Sandbridge, Croatan, and North End," says Zumper. Perfect for: Families who want a close-knit community feel or nature lovers who want to live in a beautiful setting. 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. Visited by Captain John Smith in the early 1600s, he wrote that the land was the Gem of the Eastern Shore. Virginia is home to many charming beach towns that have small-town American vibes, including Chincoteague, Tangier Island, and beyond. The university: Blacksburg is home to Virginia Tech, which brings many cultural and economic benefits to the town. Another Washington, D.C. suburb, Alexandria is on the list of best places in Virginia for waterfront living. Kailua, Hawaii. Affordability: The nearby areas have homes below the national median home value, and you can even find acres of land at an affordable price. Throughout the city, youll find hundreds of sculptures of mermaids, the citys unofficial mascot of sorts. 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. Virginia's small towns, unique cities, and notable neighborhoods are treasure troves of great food, warm hospitality, immense history, and Southern charm. As you've probably gathered from reading our list of the best small towns in Virginia, the Old Dominion is full of unique attractions. 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. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. 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. Hello, everyone who enjoys and appreciates our USA, the coastal VA rugged life style and its rich history This article is an opinion based on facts and is meant as infotainment. Vivamus integer non suscipit taciti mus etiam at primis tempor sagittis euismod libero facilisi. 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. The median home value is $410,300, while the median rental price is $1,794. Located right on the South Carolina coast, Charleston is a tourist destination with beautiful moss-draped live oaks and gorgeous pastel-colored waterfront homes. The population of Clifton is just over 1,000 residents, making it the perfect place to live if youre looking for quiet. 4/15. The town is full of historical sights and cultural attractions to ensure you always have something to do. 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. Moving Company Costs Explained. The surrounding counties of Stafford and Spotsylvania are more affordable than the downtown, with single-family homes available in the $250,000 range. http://www.burnhamguides.com/virginia Also, Inn and Garden Cafe is closed. With a population of 16,378, Vienna is the kind of close-knit, family-friendly community that picket fence dreams are made of. You'll receive your first newsletter soon! 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. Sun Set Beach Resort, Cape Charles. 13 years ago. Perfect for: Families or retirees who love nature and are looking for a low cost of living. 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. $102,227 17. 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 . 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. 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. Rich with history, this small town was once home to the Cherokee Nation and by the mid-18th century, had been explored by the likes of William Byrd and Daniel Boone. 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. Lovers of the great outdoors might prefer the beach or mountains, but big-city, suburban, and small-town options are also available. And so, without further ado, we give you The 15 best places to live in Virginia. They include Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and Floridaand all have. Here's a look at the highest-rated coastal towns to retire. Visitors can enjoy the great outdoors with kayaking, paddle boarding . If you want to join the happy little community, dont expect much change from $379,900 for a single-family home- living in a town this desirable comes with a hefty price tag. That depends on your budget and preferences. Martinsville. More than 175 colleges and universities are in the Commonwealth. (And if you're looking for a little laugh, check out these 17 reasons you should never, ever move to Virginia.). Virginia staff writer for Only in Your State, freelance writer and journalist. Today, the town is filled with stunning Victorian-era homes and local boutique shops. 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. Mountains, hiking, and nature: Staunton is located in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley between the Blue Ridge and the Appalachian Mountains. The city of Richmond itself is lovely. The end result? Coastal properties in Mississippi, Texas, and Florida are among the most affordable homes near the water anywhere in the country. Feeling inspired to check out more of Virginia's small towns? Antiquers and outdoor enthusiasts equally will be at home in these destinations promising all of the above and more. 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. The town has a rich colonial history and many historical sites and museums. Boasting gorgeous beaches, fantastic boardwalks, and lively nightlife, there's something for everyone in this vibrant coastal city. Middleburg. The region offers more than 100 golf courses within 30 miles. What makes it a great place to live: The University of Virginia. Next to my home in West Virginia, Wachapreague is my favorite place! 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. Sure, theres a lot of farms, and yes, theres a lot of cows. The List: Best Places to Live in Virginia Most Recommended By Experts 1. 2022 2. Weighing in at 244,000 residents, there are plenty of benefits of living in Norfolk. If youre interested in staying overnight, book a stay at the Bay View Bed & Breakfast. 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. 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. This is one of the most expensive areas in the state. Median Income: $81,263. 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. Cheap housing can sometimes mean a less than desirable neighborhood, but in Lortons case, this couldnt be further from the truth. 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. Surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Shenandoah Valley, this quiet little haven offers charm and history in abundance. If you want to live in one of the best beach towns in the U.S. with tons of unique shops, art galleries on every corner, beaches you can relax on, and restaurants to fit any food mood, then living in Laguna Beach might be perfect for you! Wrightsville Beach. . A mammoth median property price of $485,000. Pelican Beach, Destin. Despite spending 35 years in South Florida, my family moves every 1-2 years. 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. Surrounded by beautiful mountains, Staunton provides culture a-plenty with sites like the American Shakespeare Center and The Frontier Culture Museum and offers no shortage of sensational specialty shopping, dining, and nightlife opportunities. The sculptures are a fun way to decorate the city while also honoring its maritime roots. Lexington is a small town located in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia, with a population of around 7,000. Nothing on this website should be considered an offer, solicitation of an offer, or advice to buy or sell securities. 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. Easy, Cheap, 30-Minute (or Faster!) The town has colonial-era architecture and a recreated 18th-century village, complete with an amusement park and shopping opportunities nearby. Retirable specializes in helping people come up with a plan. We know. Founded in 1632, the town of Williamsburg has the kind of uniquely charming historic town center you could wander for hours without getting bored. Love Virginia? Sandbridge. 100. Virginia Beach, Virginia. Clarksville On the shore of 78sqmi (202sqkm) Kerr Lake, Clarksville is the only lakeside town in Virginia. Although the cost of living is higher than the national average, its still low when compared to other beachfront communities. 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. Jennifer, Im considering moving to Virginia and am happy to hear ANY recommendations! The metro area has a population density of 89.6 people per square. During the spring, fall and summer months, everywhere you look people can be seen rollerblading, skimboarding, paddleboarding, kayaking and walking their dogs. The recreational opportunities: Arlington is home to several great parks, including the famous Pentagon Row and Ballston Commons. Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 344. 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. 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. 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. Today, art is just as much a part of Richmond as its history is, tattoos can be spotted on hipster skin as frequent as murals on the citys walls and coffee and craft beer flow with as much ferocity as the James River. Virginia Beach is in Virginia Beach City County and is one of the best places to live in Virginia. Regent University. 1. The city's downtown area also provides easy access to all D.C. metro area attractions. Leesburg is a high-demand town, which means home prices will be higher than the national average. Ocean View Beach, Norfolk, VA. 1. A growing population puts Blacksburg on the list of Virginias best places to live for some. 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. 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". As Niche notes, most residents are highly educated (21% have a masters degree or higher, 31% have a bachelors degree, and a further 23% have a college or associates degree), while those that havent yet completed their education stand a very good chance of progressing to the same level thanks to an excellent, well-funded school system that comprises of such well regarded schools as Loudoun County High School, Evergreen Elementary School, and Heritage High School. Fredericksburg is a historic town in Virginia preserved and revitalized in recent years. The Hotel Cape Charles on Main Street innCape Charles is dog friendly and a great spot! If you can find a more affordable city with access to amenities, you may be able to enjoy the best of all possible worlds. Except that Kilmarnock is not on the Eastern Shore which is what the bolg is about. But one of the best features of Virginia is the abundance of small towns and communities throughout the state. We and our partners share information on your use of this website to help improve your experience. But theres also gorgeous landscapes, sprawling metropolises, and a lot of very friendly folk who, Read More The 10 Cheapest Places to Live in WisconsinContinue, People have different criteria when choosing where to live, depending on their lifestyle, personal preference, stage of life, and employment. I spend my free time with my family, hiking, exploring breweries and new restaurants in the area. 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. The small-town feel: With a population of just over 1,000, Clifton has a strong sense of community, and the residents are committed to preserving the areas natural beauty. Here are the best places to live in Virginia. Live everyday like you're on vacation in these American coastal towns with spectacular views and bargain prices. Your email address will not be published. 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. With that said, the one downside of Richmond is that there is a slightly higher crime rate there than the other two cities. Charleston is a popular choice for those seeking an East Coast locale with warm . 5/15 . Fredericksburg Every corner of Fredericksburg is loaded with history. 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. Dont worry though, locals say you get pretty accustomed to the shrieks and roars of the jets knifing their way through the sky. Arlington has something for everyone with top schools, low crime rates, incredible diversity, and buzzing nightlife. 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. If you are looking for quaint towns in Virginia put this on your list. This influx of hipsters is having a massive impact on the culture of Richmond in some fabulous ways. 4. Best places to live in Virginia include Arlington, Alexandria, Abingdon, Virginia Beach, Chesapeake and Norfolk. This small town is known for the Martinsville . In addition, it has a thriving arts and culture scene. Portland, Maine. With stunning mountain ranges, superb beaches and vibrant cities, Virginia has it all. Re: smaller coastal towns. The cities also had to have a population of at least 12,000. 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. Hanalei, HI. 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. 1. 10. Get more stories delivered right to your email. Schedule your FREE Retirable consultation today. 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. Arlington is a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family. According to Home Snacks, the small town has the lowest level of poverty of any independent city or county in the United States which may explain why its residents can expect a massive $742,000 in property price from any newcomer looking to enjoy the towns attractions. 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. And, finally, if youre into great food and craft beer, Norfolk is the place for you. They were ranked according to their median home value, average number of rooms per house, median monthly property taxes paid and monthly housing costs. That may mean low crime rates, proximity to work or school, good schools for your children, or even just affordability. 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. 20 Cities with the Worst Weather in the U.S. How Eiza Gonzalez Achieved a Net Worth of $5 Million, How Bebe Rexha Achieved a Net Worth of $10 Million. The town is known for its high quality of life and a great place to raise children. View Full Report Card. Be sure to share your thoughts with us and join in on the conversation by leaving a comment. How long will $100,000 last me in retirement. The downtown area has lots of local shops carrying everything from handcrafted jewelry to homemade ice cream. Less than an hour from Roanoke is this small town. It offers visitors a variety of attractions, including Colonial Williamsburg and Busch Gardens amusement park. With this state, the most difficult roadblock youll run into will be choosing which amazing city to call home. Luray, VA. 4,842. oldest continuously operating inns in the U.S. Lexington, Virginia and the Rockbridge Area Tourism / Facebook, reasons you should never, ever move to Virginia. Check out this road trip that will take you to 6 of the most scenic small towns in Virginia. These beach towns provide the resident and visitors a perfectly balanced beach experience. In Virginia Beach there are a lot of restaurants, coffee . This riverside town may have a population of less than 1,000, but it does not fall short of charm. 6. It's most famous for theUniversity of Virginia and Monticello, the home of Thomas Jefferson. Retiring in Virginia means beautiful landscapes and reduced taxes. Spanning 70 miles and bordered by the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, Virginias Eastern Shore is a coastal paradise. Beach lovers looking for the best cities to live in Virginia will likely gravitate toward Virginia Beach. 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. Required fields are marked *. The only ferry to Tangier Island from the shore departs from Onancock, giving you access to yet another incredible small town on the Eastern Shore. in Best Places to Live #39. in Best Places to Retire; 6 Overall Rating. Book a tour or rent a kayak to journey through Wachateagues waters with Daytrippers, where youll explore the adjacent barrier islands, dig for clams, or try your hand at fishing. 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. Read the Magazine Quick Facts Average Household Income $73,549 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. And, while the resort city will certainly have plenty of vacationers laying out on one of its massive public beaches, locals know some nice quiet spots where you wont see a tourist anywhere in sight. Jump in your car and drive 137 miles Southeast of Richmond and youll find another city in Virginia. #5 Places with the Best Public Schools in Virginia Blacksburg Town in Virginia 184 reviews Current Resident: Blacksburg is a classic small town with a lot of local businesses and restaurants to support. 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. Before you plan your VA retirement, though, take some time to look around at the many options the state has to offer. Check out the web site or call them +1 800-221-5059. Its most famous for theUniversity of Virginia and Monticello, the home of Thomas Jefferson. We love smaller lesser-known cities that have a lot to offer. Middleburg is a popular town in Virginia that is located in Loudoun County. A low cost of living and quiet lifestyle make this one of the best retirement communities in Virginia. A commute to DC is possible from here, but its a long drive with lots of traffic. Bird watching is also a big draw, especially during spring and fall migrations when thousands of birds take flight through the region. It is small and has a population of merely 800 or so people. Perfect for: Young professionals who want to be close to the nations capitol and enjoy a vibrant urban setting. Regardless of what youre looking for, theres sure to be a place in Virginia thats perfect for you. While the en What is the best coastal town to live in North Carolina? The town also has a lively music scene and many wineries. What are the most unique towns in Virginia? Up next we have Purcellville, a relatively small town that is so in demand, homeowners can charge a stonking $426,500 for their properties. Fancy moving into one of Fairfax countys most desirable hot spots? Arlington is a city in Virginia that offers its residents a high quality of life. Next: 10. 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. The locals are really nice and are generally accepting of college students. These beautiful animals were made famous in the book and subsequent movie, Misty of Chincoteague, and the town houses a museum that tells the true story behind the ponies. The states rich history gives it plenty of attractions to keep retirees busy. The tropical town on the north shore of Kauai looks out over nothing but hundreds of miles of raw Pacific. If you dont like the heat, you may want to consider another town.). Numbers 1 and 2 don't require much explanation - the population and dates speak for themselves. The large 65-plus population means youll have plenty to do, including gatherings at community centers. Need further convincing? 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?. In addition, what makes Virginia especially interesting is its military influence. Many of the residents work for the federal government, but the 65-plus community is a thriving one, as well. Everything you need to know about moving to a new state. 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. Four hospitals and plenty of medical offices will help you keep your healthcare options open. Hi Rhonda, Im considering purchasing a home in Wachapreague. (But Williamsburg can get quite hot and humid in the summer. 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. Edenton Edenton | Photo Copyright: Lana Law Set on Albemarle Sound, Edenton is a peaceful escape from the stress of everyday life. 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%. So why the popularity? Lexington is a beautiful town to call home: full of historic buildings and southern charm. Ogunquit, Maine. Not to mention, Norfolk based breweries like Smartmouth Brewing and OConnor Brewing Co are turning the city into a beer drinkers paradise. The town has a rich history and a variety of attractions that make it a popular destination for tourists and families alike. Looking for the top place to live in Virginia? The charming town center: Downtown Fredericksburg offers a variety of restaurants, shops, and breweries. 10 Stunningly Beautiful Virginia Beaches + Tips for Picking the Right One, 11 Gorgeous Apple Orchards in Virginia (Best VA Apple Picking!). Oak Island. The locals like to call it CBVB and they 35 miles of sandy beach along the Potomac River. Perfect for: Families who want to live on one income (surrounding counties) or young professionals who want to live in a historic town with a small-town feel (downtown). Yorktown Beach, Yorktown, VA. Just FYI, you used the photo of Cape Charles for your entry on Wachapreague. The cost of childcare, healthcare, and housing quickly racks up, especially when youre living on a single income. Located on the Virginia coast where the Chesapeake Bay collides with the Atlantic, Virginia Beach at surface level is a vacation hot spot. Weve said it before and well say it again. As such, its important that you pick a place with all the features and amenities that are most important to you. Perfect for: families with a high-income looking for a small-town feel with easy access to Federal government jobs. Some vacation houses allow dogs, but be aware that you cannot take ANY pet, even confined in your car, onto Assateague Island. Virginia is without a doubt one of the best places to live. 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. The old town area is home to colonial-era architecture and cobblestone streets, giving you a real taste of American history. 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. It has a small historic downtown and is surrounded by horse farms and elegant homes. 2/15. Central Virginia This digital edition of the Central Virginia is sponsored by Central Virginia Partnership. Kilmarnock! 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. Some quick facts about Centreville: the median income is $107,605. But what sets it apart is the feeling of community and camaraderie you get when youre there. This means that there are plenty of job opportunities for Arlington residents. Providing you dont have a pointy hat, a broomstick, and a black cat at your heels, youre likely to be left spellbound by the pretty little city of Salem. You might look on the Northern Neck, in particular towns like Irvington, Kilmarnock, Montross, White Church. We are not at all surprised. Some quick facts about Centreville: the median income is $107,605. Plus, the dining scene is equally impressive. Just 25 miles west of Virginia Beach exists the state's second largest city, Norfolk. It has a thriving economy, excellent schools, plenty of recreational opportunities, and high quality of life. If you're interested in retiring near the ocean without the humidity of a tropical . The best place to retire in Virginia is Martinsville. 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.