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. 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. Tangier Island lies twelve miles off the western coast of the Eastern Shore in the Chesapeake Bay and is known as America's "Soft Crab Capital". Portland, Maine. A reviewer on City-Data.com summed things up best with the comment, We feel incredibly safe in Salem. 5.4 Value. Since each person has different budget requirements, your retirement planning will be different from someone else. http://www.burnhamguides.com/virginia Also, Inn and Garden Cafe is closed. Monterey is ripe for niche tourism, with beautiful country homes, old churches, nearby hiking trails and the annual Highland Maple Festival, which takes place each March. Edenton Edenton | Photo Copyright: Lana Law Set on Albemarle Sound, Edenton is a peaceful escape from the stress of everyday life. Perfect for: Young professionals looking for a short commute and great nightlife. 3. What about it do you like most? And then theres schooling, safety, job opportunities, and more, Read More The 20 Best Places for Single Moms to Live in EuropeContinue, Theres more to Wisconsin than cheese curds. This makes it a fabulous place to live, visit and vacation with all its small towns and cities offering up something new, old and interesting to enjoy. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 344. In addition, 22 percent of the residents are 65 years and over. The amenities: With two hospitals and a major mall, Charlottesville has everything you need within its city. Lifelong watermen and weekend sailors alike head to Rock Hall for its nautical flavor, complete with marinas, a small beach, and waterfront crabhouses. You can view them all at http://www.capecharlesbnb.com. If you want to live in a town that feels more like a quaint mountain town, Roanoke is the perfect place for you. Antiquers and outdoor enthusiasts equally will be at home in these destinations promising all of the above and more. Here are the best places to live in Virginia. Her work has appeared on Money Under 30, The Motley Fool, MoneyGeek, E-commerce Insiders, and GoBankingRates. Regardless of what youre looking for, theres sure to be a place in Virginia thats perfect for you. Between Richmonds aesthetic and agreeable weather, it has quickly become a hotspot for millennials looking to escape the big city life without missing out on big city opportunity. When it comes to the best small towns in Virginia, Occoquan certainly fits the bill. Before you plan your VA retirement, though, take some time to look around at the many options the state has to offer. Virginia has its share of suburban sprawl and terrible traffic, but its still a great place to call home. The large 65-plus population means youll have plenty to do, including gatherings at community centers. Easy, Cheap, 30-Minute (or Faster!) The historic downtown: Stauntons historic downtown district is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Kailua, Hawaii. Or just sit in a pub on the water and listen to live music. Most residents own their homes here and there is a small-town feel in the middle of the city. Martinsville. Known as the "City of Discovery," the historic coastal town of Ocean Springs is the perfect place for visitors to relax and enjoy. 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. 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. Retirable, Inc. ('Retirable') is an SEC registered investment advisor. Piedmont. There are towns and then there are small towns. Coastal properties in Mississippi, Texas, and Florida are among the most affordable homes near the water anywhere in the country. Its a short drive to Washington DC, and public transit is available. Dana has extensive professional writing experience including technical and report writing, informational articles, persuasive articles, contrast and comparison, grant applications, and advertisement. 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. Another Washington, D.C. suburb, Alexandria is on the list of best places in Virginia for waterfront living. 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. Fort Monroe Beach, Hampton VA. 7. 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. Named one of the Top 14 Small Cities In Virginia by CitiesJournal, Occoquan sits on the Occoquan River. Does anyone know if there are dog friendly hotels at any of the Virginia Eastern Shore areas? Middleburg is a popular town in Virginia that is located in Loudoun County. 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. Population: 23,204 Home Price: $1,390,500 median purchase price; $2,028 median monthly rent Crime Rate: Safer than 31% of cities in the U.S. The charming town center: Downtown Fredericksburg offers a variety of restaurants, shops, and breweries. Surrounded on all sides by Virginia wine and horse country, Warrenton enjoys one of the most idyllic spots in the state. 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. This article is an opinion based on facts and is meant as infotainment. If youre looking to make the state of Virginia your next home, you could do a lot worse than the little town of Warrenton. 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. Love Virginia? Median Home Value: $87,700. Now there are small towns and then there are small towns. 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. 10 Stunningly Beautiful Virginia Beaches + Tips for Picking the Right One, 11 Gorgeous Apple Orchards in Virginia (Best VA Apple Picking!). The List: Best Places to Live in Virginia Most Recommended By Experts 1. Many of the residents work for the federal government, but the 65-plus community is a thriving one, as well. #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. 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. Clifton is a charming little town located just a short drive from Washington DC. With 6 million people spread across 12,400 square miles, Maryland is one of the least congested states you can find. Virginia Beach, Virginia. Surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Shenandoah Valley, this quiet little haven offers charm and history in abundance. 1. 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. Perfect for: Young professionals who want to be close to the nations capitol and enjoy a vibrant urban setting. There are so many great cities in Virginia that its a bit hard to make a decision. 2/15. The schools: Arlington has award-winning schools, with many ranking at the top of their respective categories. It was known traditionally as the US Horse and Hunt Capital as it played an active role in steeplechases, foxhunting, and had large estates. Number 1: it's one of the newest neighborhoods in Virginia Beach. The locals are really nice and are generally accepting of college students. The beautiful surroundings: The town is surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, and there are plenty of parks and nature preserves to enjoy. Richmond As you explore some of the best cities to live in Virginia, don't neglect the capital. North Carolina vs Virginia Beach, Virginia Change Places . 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. 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. The end result? There are a variety of restaurants, shops, and breweries located in the town center, and its conveniently close to Washington D.C. Located in the Shenandoah Valley, Staunton is a city that has much to offer its residents. Despite spending 35 years in South Florida, my family moves every 1-2 years. A growing population puts Blacksburg on the list of Virginias best places to live for some. More interested in shopping? Your email address will not be published. Although the cost of living is higher than the national average, its still low when compared to other beachfront communities. The cost of childcare, healthcare, and housing quickly racks up, especially when youre living on a single income. 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. Number 3: it's one of the best neighborhoods in Virginia Beach. As such, its important that you pick a place with all the features and amenities that are most important to you. 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. 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. These beach towns provide the resident and visitors a perfectly balanced beach experience. Its transforming. 1. Here's a look at the highest-rated coastal towns to retire. Plus, the dining scene is equally impressive. Save. Live everyday like you're on vacation in these American coastal towns with spectacular views and bargain prices. Download The Entire Virginia Ranking Data. Oak Island. Some of these places are very pricey! The downtown: Lexington has a charming and historic downtown district worth exploring. Have a great antique shop on Main St. just as you enter town Seaside Antiques and Art. Virginia is home to many charming beach towns that have small-town American vibes, including Chincoteague, Tangier Island, and beyond. This means that there are plenty of job opportunities for Arlington residents. Be sure to share your thoughts with us and join in on the conversation by leaving a comment. However, if youre asking us to weigh in, we have to give todays MVP to Richmond. More than 175 colleges and universities are in the Commonwealth. Cheap housing can sometimes mean a less than desirable neighborhood, but in Lortons case, this couldnt be further from the truth. The best small towns in Virginia are some of the most delightful locales in the country. Full of architectural delights, quirky little boutiques, and artisanal marketplaces, its easy to understand how Williamson attracts over 4 million tourists every year. . As you've probably gathered from reading our list of the best small towns in Virginia, the Old Dominion is full of unique attractions. Some parts of Los Angeles do touch the Pacific Ocean, though other cities in the metro . 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. With this state, the most difficult roadblock youll run into will be choosing which amazing city to call home. Heres a rundown of some of our favorite Virginia towns to help you start your search. Virginia Beach is in Virginia Beach City County and is one of the best places to live in Virginia. Are there any that you believe should be on this list? Your email address will not be published. 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. Sample fresh seafood at The Fishermans Corner Restaurant or Lorraines Seafood Restaurant. Los Angeles. 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. Richmond, Virginia is yet another one of these gems weve stumbled upon, making it one of the top places to live in Virginia. We recommend Norfolk for young families looking to raise their kids in a great city among great people. We coordinate local and long-distance moving services in Virginia and we would love to help! Its a city for creatives, artists and entrepreneurs looking to escape the big bustling cities and replace it with a hidden gem with plenty of historic charm in the midst of a renaissance. 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. Garden and Sea Inn Bed and Breakfast is pet-friendly. Norfolk is a great place for families. The town was historically a bustling port town, with steamboats traveling between Baltimore and Norfolk stopping in the waterfront community for supplies and rest. I fully agree, I was born here and still here. Middleburg in Loudoun County has been listed at the top of Frommer's Best Small Towns in Virginia. Four hospitals and plenty of medical offices will help you keep your healthcare options open. 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. With a well-funded school system and a peaceful, close-knit feel, it makes a great place to raise a family. With that said, if youre wanting to call Virginia Beach home, you better be okay with maneuvering around tourists in the summertime, it comes with the territory of living in a vacation hot spot. Although the town prides itself on its slower pace, the population is one of the fastest-growing in the area. The retirement hub is Hilton Head, with many upscale communities aimed at retiring baby boomers. 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. Arlington. In Virginia Beach there are a lot of restaurants, coffee . As to number 3 where do you start? There are also some country clubs and golf courses in the area. The cost of living is low, making it an excellent place for families or those on a budget. The 46 Most Quaint and Charming Beach Towns in America For Your Best Vacation Yet. Their web site has section that shows only pet friendly rental. At first glance, Richmond has the perfect canvas to be an amazing city. The town is known for its high quality of life and a great place to raise children. 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. Regent University. In fact, out of a list of 300 of the most populated cities in the, Read More The 20 Safest Places to Live in MarylandContinue, South Africa is unquestionably one of the most beautiful countries in the world. All are walking distance to restaurants and shops! This provides plenty of opportunities for hiking, nature walks, and other outdoor activities. This company Harbor Rental in chincoteague has many different size homes that are pet friendly. In addition, it has a thriving arts and culture scene. Charleston is a popular choice for those seeking an East Coast locale with warm . Hi Rhonda, Im considering purchasing a home in Wachapreague. The town combines history with big-city life, bringing buildings from the 1700s together with shopping and dining. But with so much to offer, the state has a little something for everyone. If you are looking for quaint towns in Virginia put this on your list. Founded in 1680 as Port Scarborough, it has been called the Coolest Town in the South by Budget Travel and the #1 Small Town in Virginia by CitiesJournal.com. 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. Perfect for: Families who want a close-knit community feel or nature lovers who want to live in a beautiful setting. Affordability: The nearby areas have homes below the national median home value, and you can even find acres of land at an affordable price. Emerald Isle. 6.4 Quality of Life. Id vote for the Refuge Inn when in Chincoteague. 1. Lexington is a beautiful town to call home: full of historic buildings and southern charm. Its now Maurice., Also in Cape Charles there are several historic renovated B&Bs. It has a small historic downtown and is surrounded by horse farms and elegant homes. Chincoteague, Virginia. The schools are excellent, and the town has a close-knit community feel. 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. Is Virginia a good place to retire? 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. Access to the top of the lighthouse is open to the public during select visiting hours. Martinsville. After exploring downtown with its quaint cottage-like Main. Lake Charles' cost of living is 11.1% lower than the national average, tied for the ninth-lowest index among coastal metro areas. Located less than an hour from Washington, D.C., and only 35 minutes from Dulles Airport, it provides a perfect blend of new and old, urban and historical. How Much Do Movers Cost in 2022? 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 . It has a first-class school system, with Chantilly High School, Centreville High School, Fairfax High School, and Westfield High School all scoring an A+ under Niches assessment criteria. Virginia Beach is a city in Virginia with a population of 457,658. 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! The tropical town on the north shore of Kauai looks out over nothing but hundreds of miles of raw Pacific. Perfect for: young professionals looking for culture and beauty with home and rent prices around the national average. This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Just across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel, Cape Charles is an idyllic small town that exudes endless character. The metro area has a population density of 89.6 people per square. Learn how your comment data is processed. The median home value is $410,300, while the median rental price is $1,794. . 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.