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. 18 places sorted by traveler favorites Clear all filters 1. If youre looking to make the state of Virginia your next home, you could do a lot worse than the little town of Warrenton. Open Saturdays and Sundays or if you catch me in the yard, I live right next door. 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. The next entry to our list is one for the Golden Oldies. 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. It is very important to do your own analysis before making any decisions based on your own personal circumstances. Arlington is a city in Virginia that offers its residents a high quality of life. . 158,309 16. Some vacation houses allow dogs, but be aware that you cannot take ANY pet, even confined in your car, onto Assateague Island. 5/15 . There are also some country clubs and golf courses in the area. Home Living like a local The Best Places to Live in Virginia (A 2022 Guide). For lake living you can look at Moneta and Huddleston, both near Smith Mountain Lake. Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 66. The sculptures are a fun way to decorate the city while also honoring its maritime roots. Regent University. Plus, the dining scene is equally impressive. 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. The shopping: Alexandria is home to some of the best shopping in Northern Virginia, with a number of high-end boutiques and restaurants. Virginia is home to many charming beach towns that have small-town American vibes, including Chincoteague, Tangier Island, and beyond. Some quick facts about Centreville: the median income is $107,605. I fully agree, I was born here and still here. 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. Youll find everything from charming mountain towns to urban areas buzzing with life. Some of these places are very pricey! The charming town center: Downtown Fredericksburg offers a variety of restaurants, shops, and breweries. Famous for its historic charm, young professionals can feel right at home in cozy apartments in old beautifully renovated brick buildings and factories without paying an arm and a leg at an average rent of $1,000 for a two bedroom, Richmond is very doable (especially if youre cool with having a roommate). Jennifer, Im considering moving to Virginia and am happy to hear ANY recommendations! Ogunquit, Maine. 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. 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. 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. In general, residents here are outdoorsy and enjoy horseback riding, fishing, kayaking, waterskiing and stand-up paddleboarding during . However, the competition was fierce to say the least. 7). Surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Shenandoah Valley, this quiet little haven offers charm and history in abundance. 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. Arlington is one of the most livable areas in the country, and it ranks #3 on the Top 100 Places to Live list. #40 and #42. Charleston, SC. 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. The state of Virginia as a whole offers an excellent food scene. Median Home Value: $87,700. The town is also home to the University of Mary Washington, which offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs. Cheap housing can sometimes mean a less than desirable neighborhood, but in Lortons case, this couldnt be further from the truth. Numbers 1 and 2 don't require much explanation - the population and dates speak for themselves. $102,227 17. This one only takes up six blocks and has a population under 1,000, yes its' small. 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. What is the best coastal town to live in North Carolina? The charming downtown area includes art museums and a pedestrian mall, and the nearby Blue Ridge Mountains offer all the outdoor recreation you could want. Few people who know Chincoteague Island will argue with this towns reign as one of the best towns in Virginia. If you can find a more affordable city with access to amenities, you may be able to enjoy the best of all possible worlds. North Carolina vs Virginia Beach, Virginia Change Places . Retirable specializes in helping people come up with a plan that will ensure theyre well prepared for their later years. View Full Report Card. If youre looking for somewhere that manages to combine highly rated schools, striking Victorian architecture, an almost nonexistent crime rate, a family friendly environment, and excellent civic amenities with supremely affordable house prices, you may want to take a closer look at the charming little town of Bon Air in Chesterfield Country. 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. In fact, when you visit Crozet, you won't be far from the countless hiking trails in Shenandoah National Park. A small town can be anything from a couple of hundred people to 10,000. The city is changing. And, Richmond is weird and unique in the best kind of ways. If you want to live in a town that feels more like a quaint mountain town, Roanoke is the perfect place for you. If you're interested in retiring near the ocean without the humidity of a tropical . 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 . 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. Sample fresh seafood at The Fishermans Corner Restaurant or Lorraines Seafood Restaurant. Beach lovers looking for the best cities to live in Virginia will likely gravitate toward Virginia Beach. 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! Garden and Sea Inn Bed and Breakfast is pet-friendly. Her work has appeared on Money Under 30, The Motley Fool, MoneyGeek, E-commerce Insiders, and GoBankingRates. 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. 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. Norfolk is a great place for families. We are not at all surprised. It has a small historic downtown and is surrounded by horse farms and elegant homes. 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. Here are four Virginia Beach neighborhoods that you should take a look at if you're planning on retiring in Virginia Beach. It has a thriving economy, excellent schools, plenty of recreational opportunities, and high quality of life. Virginia Beach is in Virginia Beach City County and is one of the best places to live in Virginia. 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. Powered by Mai Theme, 17 Best Blue Ridge Parkway Hikes You Must Try. Piedmont. 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. Retirable provides holistic retirement planning services, which are available only to residents of the United States. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. You simply cant go wrong with Onancock. Weighing in at 244,000 residents, there are plenty of benefits of living in Norfolk. 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. 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. 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. . 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. Living in Virginia Beach offers residents a dense suburban feel and most residents own their homes. What about it do you like most? How many of these quaint towns in Virginia have you visited? 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. Middleburg. More interested in shopping? Low crime rates, high levels of well-being, excellent walkability, fair tax rates, a good healthcare system, and some exceptional schools are among the many reasons Alexandria ranks as one of the most desirable places to live in Virginia. Where to Stay/Eat: Book a stay at the Charlotte Hotel, a cute boutique retreat in the heart of downtown Onancock. 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. 1. The city also offers a wide range of educational opportunities after high school, including trade schools and universities. 6.4 Quality of Life. Here's how it ranked in each category: Affordability: 140 Weather: 147 Safety: 144 Economy: 156 Education and health: 95 Quality of. Dana has extensive professional writing experience including technical and report writing, informational articles, persuasive articles, contrast and comparison, grant applications, and advertisement. Coastal properties in Mississippi, Texas, and Florida are among the most affordable homes near the water anywhere in the country. The best place to live in Virginia for 2022 is Vienna. Alexandria is located right at the states northern tip and borders the Potomac River with Washington D.C. Cape Hatteras. Known as the "City of Discovery," the historic coastal town of Ocean Springs is the perfect place for visitors to relax and enjoy. Does anyone know if there are dog friendly hotels at any of the Virginia Eastern Shore areas? Eastern Shore. 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. Retiring in Virginia means beautiful landscapes and reduced taxes. Most residents own their homes here and there is a small-town feel in the middle of the city. 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. 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. 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. So you're unlikely to get bored while enjoying your golden years . As to number 3 where do you start? 2/15. 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. Newport News, Virginia is a charming city located on the Chesapeake Bay. The 46 Most Quaint and Charming Beach Towns in America For Your Best Vacation Yet. Welcome to Virginia Beach. 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. Updated: Jan 16, 2020. The schools are excellent, and the town has a close-knit community feel. Your email address will not be published. Located in the Shenandoah Valley, Staunton is a city that has much to offer its residents. With a population of around 42,000, it is home to Virginia Tech, one of the largest universities in the state. History and culture make Roanoke a great location for your Virginia state retirement. Some quick facts about Centreville: the median income is $107,605. Begin with our list of the top coastal towns in North Carolina. The median home value is $410,300, while the median rental price is $1,794. The Hotel Cape Charles on Main Street innCape Charles is dog friendly and a great spot! 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. Their web site has section that shows only pet friendly rental. Staunton is no stranger to praise. Staunton is a small town located in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, between the Blue Ridge and the Appalachian Mountains. If youre interested in staying overnight, book a stay at the Bay View Bed & Breakfast. Best Beach Towns in America - 23 of the Most Charming Beach Towns. There are a variety of restaurants, shops, and breweries located in the town center, and its conveniently close to Washington D.C. This was followed by a coveted #8 spot in USA Today and 10 Bests Readers Choice for Best Coastal Small Towns. 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. Thanks to an excellent job market, two of Virginias most famous malls (Tysons Galleria and Tysons Corner Center for the uninitiated), a close to zero crime rate, excellent schools, and a buzzing nightlife, the residents of Tysons Corner are only too aware theyre sitting on real estate dynamite. The best 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. 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. If you love nature, youll feel right at home here. A growing population puts Blacksburg on the list of Virginias best places to live for some. This company Harbor Rental in chincoteague has many different size homes that are pet friendly. Check out esvatourism.org There is a tab for lodging, then a pic of a dog, click on that and you will see them. While the en SouthEast Expeditions offers an Aqua-Culture Clamming tour along Cherrystone Creek, just north of Cape Charles. 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. In fact, in a CNN report, BudgetTravel named Chincoteague as the #2 Coolest Small Town in America. Obviously the lake is a big draw in the summer . 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. For the residents, the booming tourist trade translates to an abundance of excellent recreational and leisure pursuits (including the famous Busch Gardens amusement park), a high median home value, excellent job opportunities, and a place at number 13 on our list. Just 25 miles west of Virginia Beach exists the state's second largest city, Norfolk. Throughout the city, youll find hundreds of sculptures of mermaids, the citys unofficial mascot of sorts. The economy: Roanoke has a thriving economy with plenty of job opportunities despite its small size. Best Places to Live in Virginia Beach, Virginia Virginia Beach, Virginia is a popular summer destination for beachgoers and sun seekers alike. The downtown: Lexington has a charming and historic downtown district worth exploring. Check out our guide to the best places to live in Virginia to offer. Not to mention, Norfolk based breweries like Smartmouth Brewing and OConnor Brewing Co are turning the city into a beer drinkers paradise. 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 scenery: The town is in the Blue Ridge Mountains, so the views are absolutely stunning. Just 25 miles west of Virginia Beach exists the states second largest city, Norfolk. They have the 2nd longest beach in all of Virginia, right behind Virginia Beach. If youre a history buff, the state has plenty to offer there, as well. 18. Virginia's small towns, unique cities, and notable neighborhoods are treasure troves of great food, warm hospitality, immense history, and Southern charm. Virginia Beach, Virginia ranks in the top 10 cities for four of the six metrics we considered. 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. Are there any that you believe should be on this list? Just across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel, Cape Charles is an idyllic small town that exudes endless character. Recognized by CitiesJournal as one of Virginias Best Small Towns and surrounded by natural beauty. And, lastly, at roughly $1,000 a month for a two-bedroom in Virginia Beach, the city is doable. NASA Wallops Island Flight Facility Visitor Center, 10 Must Do Hikes in Shenandoah National Park, 8 Exclusive Luxury Retreats For a Pampered Virginia Getaway, 10 Gorgeous Glamping Destinations in Virginia for a Luxury Outdoor Experience, WanderLove: A Road Trip From Fredericksburg To Virginias Northern Neck, 15 Memorable Holiday Road Trips to Virginias Most Festive Towns, The Top Spots to View Virginias Colorful Foliage Throughout the Fall, 18 Relaxing Wellness Retreats and Getaways in Virginia, Hiking with Kids: 10 Family-Friendly Trails in Virginia, WanderLove: A Road Trip From Norfolk to Virginias Eastern Shore, 20 Virginia Summits with 360 Degree Views, 10 Best 2-3 Day Virginia Backpacking Trips on the Appalachian Trail. The median rent is $1,951, and the median home price is a steep $598,500. Chestertown Home to Washington College, this town's restored 18th- and 19th-century rowhouses and cobblestone streets abut the picturesque Chester River. 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.