Visited by Captain John Smith in the early 1600s, he wrote that the land was the Gem of the Eastern Shore. 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. It offers visitors a variety of attractions, including Colonial Williamsburg and Busch Gardens amusement park. But the state does have a slightly higher cost of living than some areas of the country. Although the town prides itself on its slower pace, the population is one of the fastest-growing in the area. View Full Report Card. 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. What's the average retirement income for 2022? Dinner Recipes. (But Williamsburg can get quite hot and humid in the summer. $102,227 17. The town also has a lively music scene and many wineries. The location: Alexandria is situated right at the top of Virginia and is a short commute away from Washington D.C. 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. 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. Wrightsville Beach. 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. 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! 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. And, Richmond is weird and unique in the best kind of ways. With a population of 16,378, Vienna is the kind of close-knit, family-friendly community that picket fence dreams are made of. 2. Connecticut has 96 miles (618 miles according to the NOAA) of idyllic New England shoreline, complete with small islands, lighthouses, and top East Coast beach towns. 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. 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. Dont say we didnt warn you. 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. Richmond, Virginia is for those that march to the beat of their own drums. Roanoke is the smallest city on the list regarding population, but it makes up for its size with its unique appeal. 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. It's most famous for theUniversity of Virginia and Monticello, the home of Thomas Jefferson. The 20 Best Places for Single Moms to Live in Europe, The 10 Cheapest Places to Live in Wisconsin, The 20 Most Affordable Places to Live in or around New England, A reviewer on City-Data.com summed things up, How Zac Stacy Achieved a Net Worth of $6 Million. If you want to live in a town that feels more like a quaint mountain town, Roanoke is the perfect place for you. This article is an opinion based on facts and is meant as infotainment. 2/15. That may mean low crime rates, proximity to work or school, good schools for your children, or even just affordability. But with so much to offer, the state has a little something for everyone. 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. Number of Hospitals Within 25 miles of the City: 2. 6.4 Quality of Life. The next entry to our list is one for the Golden Oldies. Check out this road trip that will take you to 6 of the most scenic small towns in Virginia. The poverty rate may be slightly higher than some of our other entries (although at 8.0%, its still lower than the national average), but with a low unemployment rate of 5.3%, a median income of $70,500, and a median home value of $267,300, its fair to say the majority of residents are in no danger of feeling the pinch any time soon. At first glance, Richmond has the perfect canvas to be an amazing city. Or folks can go inland a block or two and save big bucks on a beach. 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. Just 25 miles west of Virginia Beach exists the state's second largest city, Norfolk. Known as the "City of Discovery," the historic coastal town of Ocean Springs is the perfect place for visitors to relax and enjoy. If youre convinced enough of Viennas merits to make it your next home, youd better start saving: thanks to the ever-increasing popularity of the town, its average property price stands at a hefty $662,200. Boasting gorgeous beaches, fantastic boardwalks, and lively nightlife, there's something for everyone in this vibrant coastal city. Dont worry though, locals say you get pretty accustomed to the shrieks and roars of the jets knifing their way through the sky. 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. Just across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel, Cape Charles is an idyllic small town that exudes endless character. 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. Colonial Beach is one of the best beach towns in Virginia. A commute to DC is possible from here, but its a long drive with lots of traffic. Now there are small towns and then there are small towns. Clarksville On the shore of 78sqmi (202sqkm) Kerr Lake, Clarksville is the only lakeside town in Virginia. And the people arent the only thing thats friendly rent is awfully friendly too. The economy: Roanoke has a thriving economy with plenty of job opportunities despite its small size. 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 schools: Youll have access to a first-class school system. http://www.burnhamguides.com/virginia Also, Inn and Garden Cafe is closed. Middleburg is a popular town in Virginia that is located in Loudoun County. 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. When not underground in the caves,. Median Income: $81,263. Begin with our list of the top coastal towns in North Carolina. Youll get all the amenities typically found in a touristy area, including plenty of restaurants and shopping. 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. The small town draws visitors looking for a quiet coastal beach experience as well as space travel enthusiasts, as the NASA Wallops Island Flight Facility Visitor Center, NASAs primary facility for suborbital missions, is just south of the island. Sunny Places to Escape the Winter Blues. The cities in Virginia are as beautiful and diverse as the state itself. 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. 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. There are plenty of activities, including both a senior center and Southwest Virginia Higher Education Centers College for Older Adults. The city also offers a wide range of educational opportunities after high school, including trade schools and universities. What are your thoughts on our list of the 10 best small towns in Virginia? Mountains, hiking, and nature: Staunton is located in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley between the Blue Ridge and the Appalachian Mountains. 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. A national poll voted Chincoteague as America's seventh favorite small town. 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. 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. Keep reading to see if your hometown in Virginia made the list. Portland, Maine. 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. Fintech company SmartAsset compared data for 218 beach towns and put together a list of the most affordable 50.. The first state to be settled in 1607, Virginia has a rich history, culture and heritage to delve into lots of spellbinding scenery. . 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. 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. 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. Best Places to Live in Virginia Beach, Virginia Virginia Beach, Virginia is a popular summer destination for beachgoers and sun seekers alike. 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. Virginia Beach, Virginia ranks in the top 10 cities for four of the six metrics we considered. Newport News, Virginia is a charming city located on the Chesapeake Bay. Virginia has dozens of small towns that offer endless charm, hospitality, and memorable adventures. Some quick facts about Centreville: the median income is $107,605. 10 Stunningly Beautiful Virginia Beaches + Tips for Picking the Right One, 11 Gorgeous Apple Orchards in Virginia (Best VA Apple Picking!). A bustling 65-plus population makes Abingdon one of the best towns in Virginia for retirees. #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. This isnt to say its a youngsters playground only- the excellent economy, great schools, booming job market, high home values, low crime rates and abundance of things to see and do make Arlington as equally popular with seniors and families as it is with millennials. Love Virginia? Everything you need to know about moving to a new state. In fact, when you visit Crozet, you won't be far from the countless hiking trails in Shenandoah National Park. 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. This small town is known for the Martinsville . The state of Virginia as a whole offers an excellent food scene. Some quick facts about Centreville: the median income is $107,605. 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. 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%. Just FYI, you used the photo of Cape Charles for your entry on Wachapreague. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Corolla/Currituck Beach. The town has colonial-era architecture and a recreated 18th-century village, complete with an amusement park and shopping opportunities nearby. . For lake living you can look at Moneta and Huddleston, both near Smith Mountain Lake. 13 years ago. Sample fresh seafood at The Fishermans Corner Restaurant or Lorraines Seafood Restaurant. 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. The median home value is $410,300, while the median rental price is $1,794. 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. 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. Arlington has something for everyone with top schools, low crime rates, incredible diversity, and buzzing nightlife. Our first sell on Virginia Beach is that it sports over 38 miles of coastline. Easton The historic downtown: Stauntons historic downtown district is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. 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. Virginia Beach. Winchester is one of the best towns to live in Virginia if you prefer to be close to D.C. and the airport. 6. 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. Virginia Beach, Virginia. This is our ninth time ranking the best small places to live in Virginia. The town was historically a bustling port town, with steamboats traveling between Baltimore and Norfolk stopping in the waterfront community for supplies and rest. For more information, see our Form ADV Part II and other disclosures. 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 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. 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. 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. Virginia Beach is first and foremost for the beach lover. Check out this article that highlights 11 of the most beautiful places to see 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. 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. Retiring in Virginia means beautiful landscapes and reduced taxes. After exploring downtown with its quaint cottage-like Main. Today, Occoquan is an artists' community, featuring shops, dining, ghost walks, boating, and fishingall with brick sidewalks lit by old-fashioned gaslights. It served as the capital of the Virginia colony between 1699 and 1780, and today it is home to nearly 15,000 residents. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Best Places 2021-2022 Rank: 42Metro Population: 774,508Median Home Price: $380,374Average Annual Salary: $47,800. In 2nd place position with a population of 5,906, a median home value of $209,200, and an unemployment rate of 3.3% is the diminutive Bridgewater. Open Saturdays and Sundays or if you catch me in the yard, I live right next door. Live everyday like you're on vacation in these American coastal towns with spectacular views and bargain prices. There are also some country clubs and golf courses in the area. The recreation: If you love outdoor activities, youll be in heaven in Roanoke. What makes Virginia such a lovely home state is that there is truly something for everyone here. With a population of around 42,000, it is home to Virginia Tech, one of the largest universities in the state. 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. Perfect for: Young professionals who want to be close to the nations capitol and enjoy a vibrant urban setting. 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. Stephanie Faris has written about finance for entrepreneurs and marketing firms since 2013. Luray. 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. Ocean View Beach, Norfolk, VA. 1. Nothing to keep you from moving there, but just something to keep in mind as you make your decision. Four hospitals and plenty of medical offices will help you keep your healthcare options open. With 6 million people spread across 12,400 square miles, Maryland is one of the least congested states you can find. The University of Virginia. Just 25 miles west of Virginia Beach exists the states second largest city, Norfolk. Sandbridge. It is very important to do your own analysis before making any decisions based on your own personal circumstances. A reviewer on City-Data.com summed things up best with the comment, We feel incredibly safe in Salem. 1. 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. The facility also has a free museum where you can learn about previous rocket launches and the science behind the missions. In addition to lower Virginia retirement taxes, Charlottesville also gives you plenty of culture. We coordinate local and long-distance moving services in Virginia and we would love to help! Ocean lovers will feel right at home in beautiful Virginia Beach. The university: Blacksburg is home to Virginia Tech, which brings many cultural and economic benefits to the town. Less than an hour from Roanoke is this small town. To find the cities where Black Americans fare best economically, SmartAsset looked at the 200 . Next: 10. The best American east coast beach towns to live in are the following: Daytona Beach, Florida. Arlington is a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family. To experience secluded beaches and horses, visitors head to Assateague Island National Seashore, located near Chincoteague Island. Fredericksburg Every corner of Fredericksburg is loaded with history. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Staunton is a small town located in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, between the Blue Ridge and the Appalachian Mountains. Recognized by CitiesJournal as one of Virginias Best Small Towns and surrounded by natural beauty. Why its one of the best places to live in Virginia: The scenery: Roanoke is nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, so the views are absolutely stunning. You can retire to the beach, the suburbs, a small town, or the mountains. 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 . The tropical town on the north shore of Kauai looks out over nothing but hundreds of miles of raw Pacific. Situated on the border of Virginia and Washington, the vibrant atmosphere of Arlington makes it a hugely attractive proposition to Virginias new wave of bright young things. Chestertown Home to Washington College, this town's restored 18th- and 19th-century rowhouses and cobblestone streets abut the picturesque Chester River. 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. Kailua, Hawaii. What was once a small farming community is now a thriving community of 24,384. Coastal Virginia - Eastern Shore, Meetings & Conventions, Travel Ideas / March 2, 2018 by Patricia Keppel / 23 Comments. 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). 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. If you're interested in retiring near the ocean without the humidity of a tropical . Town Center of Virginia Beach and Lynnhaven Mall. Rock Hall. Bird watching is also a big draw, especially during spring and fall migrations when thousands of birds take flight through the region. Williamsburg is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. The 46 Most Quaint and Charming Beach Towns in America For Your Best Vacation Yet. When not underground in the caves . 1. Your email address will not be published. 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. Updated: Jan 16, 2020. Median Home Value: $87,700. The city of Richmond itself is lovely. The states rich history gives it plenty of attractions to keep retirees busy. Affordability: The nearby areas have homes below the national median home value, and you can even find acres of land at an affordable price. Download The Entire Virginia Ranking Data. Leesburg is a high-demand town, which means home prices will be higher than the national average. Martinsville. Surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Shenandoah Valley, this quiet little haven offers charm and history in abundance. 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. 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. Blue Ridge, Ridge and Valley & Appalachian Plateau. Here are four Virginia Beach neighborhoods that you should take a look at if you're planning on retiring in Virginia Beach. The scenery: The town is in the Blue Ridge Mountains, so the views are absolutely stunning. Virginia Beach. Charleston is a popular choice for those seeking an East Coast locale with warm . 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. Corrections for the Onancock section: Burnham Guides rents kayaks, SUPs and does tours from the historic Steamboat Ticket Office at Onancock Wharf. As such, its important that you pick a place with all the features and amenities that are most important to you. Required fields are marked *. Beach lovers looking for the best cities to live in Virginia will likely gravitate toward Virginia Beach. #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. 10. Beaufort. The locals are really nice and are generally accepting of college students. Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 344. It is affordable with excellent healthcare and education systems. As you've probably gathered from reading our list of the best small towns in Virginia, the Old Dominion is full of unique attractions. These watermen have been working the rich waters of the Chesapeake Bay for generations, and their deep roots are apparent in the unique dialect spoken on the island, a form of English not heard anywhere else in the world. 3. Powered by Mai Theme, 17 Best Blue Ridge Parkway Hikes You Must Try. The city is home to a variety of historic sites, including George Washington's childhood home, Ferry Farm. Your email address will not be published. A growing population puts Blacksburg on the list of Virginias best places to live for some. We recommend Norfolk for young families looking to raise their kids in a great city among great people. Oak Island. Virginia is without a doubt one of the best places to live. The median household income in Arlington is $105,763. 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. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. . The large 65-plus population means youll have plenty to do, including gatherings at community centers. Another one of Frommer's Best Small Towns in Virginia. It has a small historic downtown and is surrounded by horse farms and elegant homes. Ocracoke Island. Special events and cultural attractions will give you plenty to do. Be sure to share your thoughts with us and join in on the conversation by leaving a comment.
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