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. Vote- Best Coastal Small Town Nominees: 2023 10Best Readers' Choice 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. Full of architectural delights, quirky little boutiques, and artisanal marketplaces, its easy to understand how Williamson attracts over 4 million tourists every year. The facility also has a free museum where you can learn about previous rocket launches and the science behind the missions. The cities in Virginia are as beautiful and diverse as the state itself. Bald Head Island. Chincoteague, Virginia. It has a thriving economy, excellent schools, plenty of recreational opportunities, and high quality of life. 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. Perfect for: Young professionals who want to be close to the nations capitol and enjoy a vibrant urban setting. The Best Places to Live in Virginia (A 2022 Guide) - Bellhop Get an affordable, professionally prepared retirement plan today. The median home value is $410,300, while the median rental price is $1,794. Here Are 10 Of The Best Small Towns In Virginia Filled With Charm If you want to live in a town that feels more like a quaint mountain town, Roanoke is the perfect place for you. The amenities: With two hospitals and a major mall, Charlottesville has everything you need within its city. If youre interested in staying overnight, book a stay at the Bay View Bed & Breakfast. 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. Best Waterfront Communities in Virginia - PrivateCommunities.com 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. If youre trying to decide where to live in Virginia, theres no shortage of appealing options. Four hospitals and plenty of medical offices will help you keep your healthcare options open. Perfect for: Families who want a close-knit community feel or nature lovers who want to live in a beautiful setting. 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. Where to Stay/Eat: Book a stay at the Charlotte Hotel, a cute boutique retreat in the heart of downtown Onancock. Edenton Edenton | Photo Copyright: Lana Law Set on Albemarle Sound, Edenton is a peaceful escape from the stress of everyday life. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. This one only takes up six blocks and has a population under 1,000, yes its' small. Charlottesville is a town in the Commonwealth of Virginia with two high-ranking hospitals and a massive Downtown Mall. The best place to retire in Virginia is Martinsville. Despite competing with the best of them when it comes to amenities, Bon Airs property prices are among the lowest on our list, with the average cost of a three-bedroom single-family home standing at a very reasonable $212,900. Thank you! . Lexington is a beautiful town to call home: full of historic buildings and southern charm. 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. 5.9 Job Market. The schools: Arlington has award-winning schools, with many ranking at the top of their respective categories. http://www.burnhamguides.com/virginia Also, Inn and Garden Cafe is closed. Up next we have Purcellville, a relatively small town that is so in demand, homeowners can charge a stonking $426,500 for their properties. Best Places To Live In Virginia In 2023: Top 5 Old Dominion Cities Middleburg. Virginia Beach is a city in Virginia with a population of 457,658. But with so much to offer, the state has a little something for everyone. Retiring in Virginia means beautiful landscapes and reduced taxes. Here's how it ranked in each category: Affordability: 140 Weather: 147 Safety: 144 Economy: 156 Education and health: 95 Quality of. Dont say we didnt warn you. 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. Best Places 2021-2022 Rank: 42Metro Population: 774,508Median Home Price: $380,374Average Annual Salary: $47,800. Keep reading to see if your hometown in Virginia made the list. Garden and Sea Inn Bed and Breakfast is pet-friendly. Virginia has its share of suburban sprawl and terrible traffic, but its still a great place to call home. (And if you're looking for a little laugh, check out these 17 reasons you should never, ever move to Virginia.). Alexandria is located right at the states northern tip and borders the Potomac River with Washington D.C. Surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Shenandoah Valley, this quiet little haven offers charm and history in abundance. $171,800.0. How long will $100,000 last me in retirement. Although the town prides itself on its slower pace, the population is one of the fastest-growing in the area. Middleburg. 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 . Topsail Island. The city is changing. 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 20 Best Places to Live in South Africa. However, many people tend to agree that one of the most scenic towns in the state is Crozet. Charleston, SC. Its also home to Virginia Tech, which brings even more to the local economy. Fort Monroe Beach, Hampton VA. 7. Plus, the dining scene is equally impressive. Beaufort. It has a small historic downtown and is surrounded by horse farms and elegant homes. This article is an opinion based on facts and is meant as infotainment. Virginia staff writer for Only in Your State, freelance writer and journalist. 2. SouthEast Expeditions offers an Aqua-Culture Clamming tour along Cherrystone Creek, just north of Cape Charles. Some quick facts about Centreville: the median income is $107,605. Just 25 miles west of Virginia Beach exists the states second largest city, Norfolk. Here are our top picks for livability in this beautiful state. 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! With a well-funded school system and a peaceful, close-knit feel, it makes a great place to raise a family. When not underground in the caves . What are the most unique towns in Virginia? Regardless of what your idea of the perfect city is, weve got something for everyone. Check out this road trip that will take you to 6 of the most scenic small towns in Virginia. Dont worry though, locals say you get pretty accustomed to the shrieks and roars of the jets knifing their way through the sky. 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. 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. For Virginia Citizen And Business Services Visit www.virginia.gov. The large 65-plus population means youll have plenty to do, including gatherings at community centers. Ocean View Beach, Norfolk, VA. 1. Clifton is a charming little town located just a short drive from Washington DC. Median Home Value: $87,700. A growing population puts Blacksburg on the list of Virginia's best places to live for some. Perfect for: Families who want a safe and friendly town to raise their children or young professionals who want to live near a large university. #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. By Brie Dyas. Stephanie Faris has written about finance for entrepreneurs and marketing firms since 2013. Virginia has so many remarkable small towns that singling out one as the most scenic is a bit of a challenge and largely depends on whether or not you're more partial to farmland, mountains, or the coast. The 25 Best Places to Live on the East Coast in 2022-2023 10 Best Cities to Retire in Virginia in 2023 - Retirable Emerald Isle. Virginia Beach is first and foremost for the beach lover. After exploring downtown with its quaint cottage-like Main. Lovers of the great outdoors might prefer the beach or mountains, but big-city, suburban, and small-town options are also available. Just 25 miles west of Virginia Beach exists the state's second largest city, Norfolk. 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. Cape May, New Jersey. The Hotel Cape Charles on Main Street innCape Charles is dog friendly and a great spot! The 8 Best Beaches in Virginia for Avoiding Crowds - Livability Choosing where to live is one of the biggest decisions youll make for yourself and your family. The historic town square may only cover six square blocks, but it is home to over 100 shops and restaurants, making Occoquan a small town with big-town convenience. If you need any more convincing as to why this suburb of Arlington deserves a place on our list, why not try its low crime rate, excellent walkability, and abundance of local amenities for size? 7 Best Beach Towns in America | Extra Space Storage If youre a history buff, the state has plenty to offer there, as well. Ogunquit, Maine. 6.3 Desirability. 46.5" 15. What is the best coastal town to live in North Carolina? A bustling 65-plus population makes Abingdon one of the best towns in Virginia for retirees. 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. Cape Hatteras. Chestertown Home to Washington College, this town's restored 18th- and 19th-century rowhouses and cobblestone streets abut the picturesque Chester River. This is Virginia's only resort island and is considered the most beautiful, providing plenty of space to unwind and explore. Local tip: Evergrain Bread Company (201-203 High St.; 410-778-3333) has some of the flakiest croissants this side of the Seine. 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. The town is also home to the University of Mary Washington, which offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs. The 11 best coastal cities to live in after the pandemic - Business Insider The beautiful surroundings: The town is surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, and there are plenty of parks and nature preserves to enjoy. The 20 Best Places to Live in Virginia - Money Inc Clarksville On the shore of 78sqmi (202sqkm) Kerr Lake, Clarksville is the only lakeside town in Virginia. Folks who live in Norfolk are always pleasantly surprised by the work/life balance that exists in the city. Here are the best places to live in Virginia | WAVY.com You simply cant go wrong with Onancock. Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 66. Helpful Statistics: Median Age: 40 years. Median Annual Income. Alexandria is a city located in Northern Virginia with a lot to offer residents. Norfolk is a great place for families. The retirement hub is Hilton Head, with many upscale communities aimed at retiring baby boomers. There are plenty of hiking and biking trails and other recreational opportunities. 3. 2022 2. But, outside from the beaches, the city as a whole sports a very outdoor-centric culture. How Much Do Movers Cost in 2022? oldest continuously operating inns in the U.S. Lexington, Virginia and the Rockbridge Area Tourism / Facebook, reasons you should never, ever move to Virginia. And like most of the best places to retire in Virginia, Vienna provides several opportunities to bask in nature and stay active. Jennifer, Im considering moving to Virginia and am happy to hear ANY recommendations! 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 are looking for quaint towns in Virginia put this on your list. But, Norfolk in particular sports some extraordinarily delicious treats. 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. Charleston is a popular choice for those seeking an East Coast locale with warm . Despite spending 35 years in South Florida, my family moves every 1-2 years. It served as the capital of the Virginia colony between 1699 and 1780, and today it is home to nearly 15,000 residents. Download The Entire Virginia Ranking Data. The 30 most charming beach towns in the USA - TravelMag Blacksburg is a small town located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. Radford. Regardless of the other factors people consider, everyone has a budget to which they must, Read More The 20 Most Affordable Places to Live in or around New EnglandContinue. In addition to lower Virginia retirement taxes, Charlottesville also gives you plenty of culture. With a crime rate thats among the lowest in Virginia, an unemployment rate of 4.2%, a close-knit community of 13,843, and a median income of $114,795, Falls Church scores exceptionally well across the board. smaller coastal towns - Virginia Forum - Tripadvisor Wrightsville Beach. Well send you a 5% discount code to use whenever you are ready to get moving. Feeling inspired to check out more of Virginia's small towns? There are also some country clubs and golf courses in the area. Begin with our list of the top coastal towns in North Carolina. Not to mention, it's an affordable place to live on the East Coastthe median home price in Virginia Beach is $262,200, and the median monthly rent is $1,258. Middleburg is a popular town in Virginia that is located in Loudoun County. Today, the town is filled with stunning Victorian-era homes and local boutique shops. The 10 Best Places To Live In Virginia: Top Picks to Live, Work, and 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. As youd expect, unemployment and poverty figures are both correspondingly low, coming in at 5.3% and 3.8% respectively. It has all the amenities and attractions you would expect from a larger city while still maintaining a close-knit community feel. If you're interested in retiring near the ocean without the humidity of a tropical . Its becoming something new. What about it do you like most? Cheap housing can sometimes mean a less than desirable neighborhood, but in Lortons case, this couldnt be further from the truth. With 6 million people spread across 12,400 square miles, Maryland is one of the least congested states you can find. Throughout the city, youll find hundreds of sculptures of mermaids, the citys unofficial mascot of sorts. 12 Cutest Small Towns In Virginia - Southern Trippers 2/15. 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. People watch out for each other here, they teach their children to be respectful of others and things.. But what sets it apart is the feeling of community and camaraderie you get when youre there. Blue Ridge, Ridge and Valley & Appalachian Plateau. Virginia Beach is in Virginia Beach City County and is one of the best places to live in Virginia. 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. Best Places to Live in Virginia Beach, Virginia To see Virginia's other best of the best cities, take a look below. 14 Best North Carolina Beaches | U.S. News Travel They have the 2nd longest beach in all of Virginia, right behind Virginia Beach. We recommend Norfolk for young families looking to raise their kids in a great city among great people. And, lastly, at roughly $1,000 a month for a two-bedroom in Virginia Beach, the city is doable. I spend my free time with my family, hiking, exploring breweries and new restaurants in the area. 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. Or folks can go inland a block or two and save big bucks on a beach. In addition, 22 percent of the residents are 65 years and over. Aesthetically, you couldnt ask for a prettier city than Richmond and with four fairly mild seasons, youll be able to enjoy the citys beauty year around without finding yourself too hot in the summertime nor freezing come winter. 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. 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. The houses and neighborhoods are beautiful, the people are friendly, and its wonderful to have such good neighbors. Virginia Beach, VA - Niche "Enjoy the abundant outdoor destinations to relax, exercise, and . Youll get all the amenities typically found in a touristy area, including plenty of restaurants and shopping. That depends on your budget and preferences. 12 Best Small Towns in Virginia - Travel + Leisure (But Williamsburg can get quite hot and humid in the summer. 10 Best Places to Live in Virginia for Families | HOMEiA When it comes to the best small towns in Virginia, Occoquan certainly fits the bill. 10. Features. Already called one of the Best Small Towns in America by Smithsonian Magazine and Frommers, TheCultureTrip.com has named it the Most Beautiful Small Town in Virginia as well. This is one of the most expensive areas in the state. The close-knit residents of this easy-going town are known for their community spirit, which is out on full display every year at the charmingly quirky Herndon Festival. There is also plenty to do outdoors, with miles of coastline for beach-goers, camping grounds, and trails for . Best Places to Live in Virginia Beach, Virginia Virginia Beach, Virginia is a popular summer destination for beachgoers and sun seekers alike. What makes Virginia such a lovely home state is that there is truly something for everyone here. Read the Magazine Quick Facts Average Household Income $73,549 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. #10. . The 10 Best Places To Live In Virginia For 2022 - HomeSnacks $51,747.0. But the state does have a slightly higher cost of living than some areas of the country. 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%. The Spinning Wheel B&B and the 1882 Colonial Manor Inn B&B are both family friendly and dog friendly. The best towns in Virginia for history lovers 1. Some quick facts about Centreville: the median income is $107,605. Corolla/Currituck Beach. 15 Small Towns in Virginia for a Relaxing Weekend Getaway What Is The Safest Coastal Town In North Carolina? - CLJ What are your thoughts on our list of the 10 best small towns in Virginia? Open Saturdays and Sundays or if you catch me in the yard, I live right next door. Ocean lovers will feel right at home in beautiful Virginia Beach. Virginia has the 11th highest per-capita income in America, and it homes four of the 10 wealthiest U.S. counties: Loudoun County, Falls Church City and Fairfax County (scooped first three positions based on survey by Code Black Group), as well as Arlington County (No. 1. North Carolina should increase to $187,536 in Virginia Beach, Virginia (assumptions include Homeowner, no Child Care, and Taxes are not considered. Middleburg in Loudoun County has been listed at the top of Frommers Best Small Towns in Virginia. 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. Number of Hospitals Within 25 miles of the City: 2. Rock Hall. Dinner Recipes. Best Coastal Cities for Retirement - moneywise.com There are so many great cities in Virginia that its a bit hard to make a decision. Between VCUs world-renowned art school, affordable living and impressive career opportunities, young professionals are moving to the city in droves. 158,309 16. You'll receive your first newsletter soon! 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. A commute to DC is possible from here, but its a long drive with lots of traffic. All are walking distance to restaurants and shops! Leesburg is a high-demand town, which means home prices will be higher than the national average. So why the popularity? Richmond, Virginia is yet another one of these gems weve stumbled upon, making it one of the top places to live in Virginia. According to Livability, Charlottesville ranks as one of the top 100 best places to live in the entire US. And, Richmond is weird and unique in the best kind of ways. And so, without further ado, we give you The 15 best places to live in Virginia. Located on the Virginia coast where the Chesapeake Bay collides with the Atlantic, Virginia Beach at surface level is a vacation hot spot. THE 10 BEST Virginia Beaches (with Photos) - Tripadvisor Increased spending increases the risk of depleting your savings and performance is not guaranteed. 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. Central Virginia This digital edition of the Central Virginia is sponsored by Central Virginia Partnership. More than 175 colleges and universities are in the Commonwealth. Regardless of what youre looking for, theres sure to be a place in Virginia thats perfect for you. Where Black Americans Fare Best Economically - 2021 Study Their web site has section that shows only pet friendly rental. 11 Charming Small Towns to Explore Along the Chesapeake Bay Perfect for: young professionals looking for culture and beauty with home and rent prices around the national average.