For the time being, here are a few of the most charming towns in Virginia that have garnered national and statewide praise for their community, beauty, and all-around livability. Ocracoke Island. Alexandria CITY POPULATION: 159,428 SHARE OF POPULATION 65+: 13.9% Norfolk is a great place for families. Virginia Beach, Virginia. Martinsville. 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 Overall City - Arlington Cliff / flickr Matthew Hurst / flickr Arlington sits just at the border of Virginia and Washington, D.C. so it's no wonder this vibrant city scores so high in terms of things to do, economy and livability. Here's how it ranked in each category: Affordability: 140 Weather: 147 Safety: 144 Economy: 156 Education and health: 95 Quality of. 13 years ago. 2022 2. 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. A small town can be anything from a couple of hundred people to 10,000. 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. Visit the Tangier History Museum to learn about the small islands long and captivating history. As the tenth oldest state in the country, youd expect it to have its share of wealthy, sedate centers, and youd be right. Every May, the town hosts the Heart of Virginia Festival, a festival where local businesses like Buffalo Creek Guitars come together with vendors and musicians from around the country to provide arts and crafts, traditional foods, music, and fireworks. Rock Hall. Jennifer, Im considering moving to Virginia and am happy to hear ANY recommendations! During the spring, fall and summer months, everywhere you look people can be seen rollerblading, skimboarding, paddleboarding, kayaking and walking their dogs. But what sets it apart is the feeling of community and camaraderie you get when youre there. Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 344. When it comes to recognition, few things could be nicer than to be named one of Americas Happiest Seaside Towns. But thats exactly what Coastal Living called Smithfield in 2015. Corolla/Currituck Beach. 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. However, if youre asking us to weigh in, we have to give todays MVP to Richmond. However, many people tend to agree that one of the most scenic towns in the state is Crozet. The region offers more than 100 golf courses within 30 miles. Its also home to Virginia Tech, which brings even more to the local economy. Their web site has section that shows only pet friendly rental. Luray. Virginia Beach is in Virginia Beach City County and is one of the best places to live in Virginia. The List: Best Places to Live in Virginia Most Recommended By Experts 1. There are so many great cities in Virginia that its a bit hard to make a decision. Ocean View Beach, Norfolk, VA. 1. The town has a rich history and a variety of attractions that make it a popular destination for tourists and families alike. This was followed by a coveted #8 spot in USA Today and 10 Bests Readers Choice for Best Coastal Small Towns. 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. Another one of Frommer's Best Small Towns in Virginia. (A quick check of the median household income will usually help you determine if you can afford the area.). If youre interested in staying overnight, book a stay at the Bay View Bed & Breakfast. SouthEast Expeditions offers an Aqua-Culture Clamming tour along Cherrystone Creek, just north of Cape Charles. These beach towns provide the resident and visitors a perfectly balanced beach experience. 158,309 16. This riverside town may have a population of less than 1,000, but it does not fall short of charm. With this state, the most difficult roadblock youll run into will be choosing which amazing city to call home. 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. As to number 3 where do you start? 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. Colonial Beach is one of the best beach towns in Virginia. 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. Middleburg is a popular town in Virginia that is located in Loudoun County. Leesburg is a high-demand town, which means home prices will be higher than the national average. Stephanie Faris has written about finance for entrepreneurs and marketing firms since 2013. Save. Retirable provides holistic retirement planning services, which are available only to residents of the United States. 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%. Being that Norfolk is surrounded by the sea, legend has it that mermaids would actually guide battle-weary sailors back to safety after a war at sea. "The area boasts access to over 10 beaches, including Sandbridge, Croatan, and North End," says Zumper. This is our ninth time ranking the best small places to live in Virginia. Now there are small towns and then there are small towns. 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. Affordability: The nearby areas have homes below the national median home value, and you can even find acres of land at an affordable price. Check out esvatourism.org There is a tab for lodging, then a pic of a dog, click on that and you will see them. Wakefield - Population: 11,554 - Median home value: $632,600 (94% own) - Median rent: $2,877 (6% rent) - Median household. 18. Located in the Shenandoah Valley, Staunton is a city that has much to offer its residents. This article is an opinion based on facts and is meant as infotainment. Just 25 miles west of Virginia Beach exists the states second largest city, Norfolk. Best Beach Towns in America - 23 of the Most Charming Beach Towns. 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. The locals like to call it CBVB and they 35 miles of sandy beach along the Potomac River. 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. Median Annual Income. The schools: Lexington has excellent schools and is home to Washington and Lee University, one of the gorgeous Virginia colleges. 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. 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. Visitors can enjoy the great outdoors with kayaking, paddle boarding . We and our partners share information on your use of this website to help improve your experience. Perfect for retirees or anyone looking for culture combined with a low cost of living. And the people arent the only thing thats friendly rent is awfully friendly too. 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. 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. Great location just a short walk from the wildlife refuge with nicely appointed rooms and decks/patios. 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. Best Places to Live | Compare cost of living, crime, cities, schools and more. The schools: Arlington has award-winning schools, with many ranking at the top of their respective categories. Plus, the dining scene is equally impressive. Just across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel, Cape Charles is an idyllic small town that exudes endless character. To experience secluded beaches and horses, visitors head to Assateague Island National Seashore, located near Chincoteague Island. Sign up for travel tips and inspiration delivered right to your inbox. 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. But it turns out, your beach-town dream may not be as far out of reach as you think. 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. 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. Virginia Beach. Richmond As you explore some of the best cities to live in Virginia, don't neglect the capital. Vienna is beautiful, quaint, safe, and bursting at the seams with great people. Be sure to share your thoughts with us and join in on the conversation by leaving a comment. 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. La Vida Nomad | Sitemap, 11 Best Beach Towns to Live in North Carolina. Spanning 70 miles and bordered by the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, Virginias Eastern Shore is a coastal paradise. Middleburg in Loudoun County has been listed at the top of Frommers Best Small Towns in Virginia. How to Pack for a Move (Without Going Crazy). Cape Charles is an excellent destination for wildlife lovers, as Kiptopeke State Park isright outside the town. Virginia is home to many charming beach towns that have small-town American vibes, including Chincoteague, Tangier Island, and beyond. 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. Access to the top of the lighthouse is open to the public during select visiting hours. The median home value is $410,300, while the median rental price is $1,794. The town's small population mainly work as watermen, harvesting fresh seafood from the surrounding Bay waters. Today, the town is filled with stunning Victorian-era homes and local boutique shops. With stunning mountain ranges, superb beaches and vibrant cities, Virginia has it all. Local tip: Evergrain Bread Company (201-203 High St.; 410-778-3333) has some of the flakiest croissants this side of the Seine. Or families looking for a reasonable commute and excellent schools. Considered one of the. In addition, it has a thriving arts and culture scene. 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. 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. Well send you a 5% discount code to use whenever you are ready to get moving. Required fields are marked *. $51,747.0. Feeling inspired to check out more of Virginia's small towns? Charleston, SC. Antiquers and outdoor enthusiasts equally will be at home in these destinations promising all of the above and more. 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. The population of Clifton is just over 1,000 residents, making it the perfect place to live if youre looking for quiet. Are there any that you believe should be on this list? The first state to be settled in 1607, Virginia has a rich history, culture and heritage to delve into lots of spellbinding scenery. Although the cost of living is higher than the national average, its still low when compared to other beachfront communities. Visited by Captain John Smith in the early 1600s, he wrote that the land was the Gem of the Eastern Shore. People watch out for each other here, they teach their children to be respectful of others and things.. In fact, when you visit Crozet, you won't be far from the countless hiking trails in Shenandoah National Park. Some of these places are very pricey! 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. What about it do you like most? I spend my free time with my family, hiking, exploring breweries and new restaurants in the area. What is the best coastal town to live in North Carolina? 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. 17. To see Virginia's other best of the best cities, take a look below. Perfect for: families with a high-income looking for a small-town feel with easy access to Federal government jobs. In addition to lower Virginia retirement taxes, Charlottesville also gives you plenty of culture. Hi Rhonda, Im considering purchasing a home in Wachapreague. Retirable specializes in helping people come up with a plan. 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. 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. Many of the residents work for the federal government, but the 65-plus community is a thriving one, as well. The city is changing. 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. Located on Virginia's Eastern Shore, Chincoteague is a famous town in VA and one of the unique places for the best weekend getaways in Virginia. The history: If youre a fan of American history, then youll love living in Williamsburg. We love smaller lesser-known cities that have a lot to offer. Here are some of the most unique towns in Virginia: These towns all offer a unique array of history, culture, dining, and community. The amenities: With two hospitals and a major mall, Charlottesville has everything you need within its city. 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. Lexington is a small town located in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia, with a population of around 7,000. Powered by Mai Theme, 17 Best Blue Ridge Parkway Hikes You Must Try. Arlington is one of the most livable areas in the country, and it ranks #3 on the Top 100 Places to Live list. The housing and rent is affordable for young professionals raising kids and with being a short drive from Virginia Beach and Washington D.C., youll never run out of things to do with your kiddos. A growing population puts Blacksburg on the list of Virginias best places to live for some. 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. Up next we have Purcellville, a relatively small town that is so in demand, homeowners can charge a stonking $426,500 for their properties. Anything you cant find in Falls Church will be available in nearby D.C., which is a short 20-minute drive away. More interested in shopping? All are walking distance to restaurants and shops! 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. The old town area is home to colonial-era architecture and cobblestone streets, giving you a real taste of American history. Ocean lovers will feel right at home in beautiful Virginia Beach. Its now Maurice., Also in Cape Charles there are several historic renovated B&Bs. Every beach town has its share of pluses and minuses, which. This influx of hipsters is having a massive impact on the culture of Richmond in some fabulous ways. Population. Just FYI, you used the photo of Cape Charles for your entry on Wachapreague. 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. Wed love to hear from you! Lexington is a beautiful town to call home: full of historic buildings and southern charm. The sculptures are a fun way to decorate the city while also honoring its maritime roots. Los Angeles. $102,227 17. 100. If you can find a more affordable city with access to amenities, you may be able to enjoy the best of all possible worlds. But, Norfolk in particular sports some extraordinarily delicious treats. 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. 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. Grandview Beach, Hampton, VA. 8. With that said, the one downside of Richmond is that there is a slightly higher crime rate there than the other two cities. 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. As such, its important that you pick a place with all the features and amenities that are most important to you.
celebrities turning 70 in 2022 » best coastal towns in virginia to live