The scenery: Lexington is located in the Shenandoah Valley, known for its beautiful scenery. This riverside town may have a population of less than 1,000, but it does not fall short of charm. Virginia has its share of suburban sprawl and terrible traffic, but its still a great place to call home. It is small and has a population of merely 800 or so people. And if youre looking for more cute towns in Virginia, check out these charming towns in Virginia where everybody knows your name. Virginia has dozens of small towns that offer endless charm, hospitality, and memorable adventures. Winchester is one of the best towns to live in Virginia if you prefer to be close to D.C. and the airport. 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. 1. In general, residents here are outdoorsy and enjoy horseback riding, fishing, kayaking, waterskiing and stand-up paddleboarding during . There are plenty of hiking and biking trails and other recreational opportunities. Alexandria is a city located in Northern Virginia with a lot to offer residents. Id vote for the Refuge Inn when in Chincoteague. Fancy moving into one of Fairfax countys most desirable hot spots? Charlottesville is a town in the Commonwealth of Virginia with two high-ranking hospitals and a massive Downtown Mall. 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. 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. Recognized by CitiesJournal as one of Virginias Best Small Towns and surrounded by natural beauty. Beach lovers looking for the best cities to live in Virginia will likely gravitate toward Virginia Beach. North Carolina should increase to $187,536 in Virginia Beach, Virginia (assumptions include Homeowner, no Child Care, and Taxes are not considered. Next: 10. Love Virginia? 1. 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. 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. 3/15. When not underground in the caves . Vienna. And like most of the best places to retire in Virginia, Vienna provides several opportunities to bask in nature and stay active. Special events and cultural attractions will give you plenty to do. Perfect for: Young professionals who want to be close to the nations capitol and enjoy a vibrant urban setting. #10. Pelican Beach, Destin. 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. Eat at Bills Prime Seafood & Steaks, followed by a few scoops at Island Creamery, ranked the best ice cream in America by TripAdvisor. Moving Company Costs Explained. Holiday Inn in Exmore is pet friendly.It is about Midway up the VA Eastern Shore. 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. If youre interested in staying overnight, book a stay at the Bay View Bed & Breakfast. With this state, the most difficult roadblock youll run into will be choosing which amazing city to call home. Winchester. For more information, see our Form ADV Part II and other disclosures. Virginia Beach, Virginia ranks in the top 10 cities for four of the six metrics we considered. We went with our fur baby and had fun. The town is known for its high quality of life and a great place to raise children. Ocean lovers will feel right at home in beautiful Virginia Beach. With a well-funded school system and a peaceful, close-knit feel, it makes a great place to raise a family. And, finally, if youre into great food and craft beer, Norfolk is the place for you. The recreation: If you love outdoor activities, youll be in heaven in Roanoke. There are towns and then there are small towns. 2022 Retirable Inc. All rights reserved. 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. And its no wonder. Virginia's small towns, unique cities, and notable neighborhoods are treasure troves of great food, warm hospitality, immense history, and Southern charm. It offers visitors a variety of attractions, including Colonial Williamsburg and Busch Gardens amusement park. Corolla/Currituck Beach. $102,227 17. However, if youre asking us to weigh in, we have to give todays MVP to Richmond. Youll get all the amenities typically found in a touristy area, including plenty of restaurants and shopping. I spend my free time with my family, hiking, exploring breweries and new restaurants in the area. http://www.burnhamguides.com/virginia Also, Inn and Garden Cafe is closed. Hello, everyone who enjoys and appreciates our USA, the coastal VA rugged life style and its rich history Fintech company SmartAsset compared data for 218 beach towns and put together a list of the most affordable 50.. The schools: Arlington has award-winning schools, with many ranking at the top of their respective categories. Fairfax County has some of the very best public schools in the nation. If you can find a more affordable city with access to amenities, you may be able to enjoy the best of all possible worlds. 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. 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. You must be at least 18 years of age to become a Retirable Premium user. Before you plan your VA retirement, though, take some time to look around at the many options the state has to offer. With a live theater, award-winning restaurants, local artists, craftsmen, sculptors, actors, dancers, musicians, and glassblowers, there's no shortage of things to see and do. Lexington is a beautiful town to call home: full of historic buildings and southern charm. This provides plenty of opportunities for hiking, nature walks, and other outdoor activities. 100. Home Living like a local The Best Places to Live in Virginia (A 2022 Guide). Virginia Beach is first and foremost for the beach lover. The population of Clifton is just over 1,000 residents, making it the perfect place to live if youre looking for quiet. The Inn at Onancock loves dogs, and your pup can meet the resident, Dante, the friendly Shepherd. Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina. 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. If you are looking for quaint towns in Virginia put this on your list. Just 25 miles west of Virginia Beach exists the states second largest city, Norfolk. The scenery: The town is in the Blue Ridge Mountains, so the views are absolutely stunning. This company Harbor Rental in chincoteague has many different size homes that are pet friendly. Its excellent school system and low crime numbers, meanwhile, make it one of the most attractive places on our list for raising a family. La Vida Nomad | Sitemap, 11 Best Beach Towns to Live in North Carolina. The best hidden gems and little known destinations - straight to your inbox. If you want to join the happy little community, dont expect much change from $379,900 for a single-family home- living in a town this desirable comes with a hefty price tag. 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. 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. We have been using them for 6 years and the service is great. It's possible to find a four-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom townhome with ocean views, right on the sand starting around $300,000. North Carolina vs Virginia Beach, Virginia Change Places . Heres a rundown of some of our favorite Virginia towns to help you start your search. Required fields are marked *. It's most famous for theUniversity of Virginia and Monticello, the home of Thomas Jefferson. Perfect for retirees or anyone looking for culture combined with a low cost of living. Or families looking for a reasonable commute and excellent schools. But, Norfolk in particular sports some extraordinarily delicious treats. We recommend Norfolk for young families looking to raise their kids in a great city among great people. It boasts the National Wildlife Refuge and cute ponies. Live everyday like you're on vacation in these American coastal towns with spectacular views and bargain prices. Number 3: it's one of the best neighborhoods in Virginia Beach. The cost of living is low, making it an excellent place for families or those on a budget. Nothing to keep you from moving there, but just something to keep in mind as you make your decision. To find the cities where Black Americans fare best economically, SmartAsset looked at the 200 . The large 65-plus population means youll have plenty to do, including gatherings at community centers. We love smaller lesser-known cities that have a lot to offer. 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. As to number 3 where do you start? Median Home Value: $87,700. Surrounded on all sides by Virginia wine and horse country, Warrenton enjoys one of the most idyllic spots in the state. The town also has a lively music scene and many wineries. The median home value is $410,300, while the median rental price is $1,794. Virginia Beach is a city in Virginia with a population of 457,658. The shopping: Alexandria is home to some of the best shopping in Northern Virginia, with a number of high-end boutiques and restaurants. Just FYI, you used the photo of Cape Charles for your entry on Wachapreague. The locals like to call it CBVB and they 35 miles of sandy beach along the Potomac River. Other Virginia towns that ranked in the list of 150 were Cape Charles, which ranked 37th and Warrenton, which ranked . Her academic degrees include AA social Sci/BA English/MEd Adult Ed & Community & Human Resource Development and ABD in PhD studies in Indust & Org Psychology. Martinsville. Virginia Beach offers well, beaches. After exploring downtown with its quaint cottage-like Main. The 46 Most Quaint and Charming Beach Towns in America For Your Best Vacation Yet. The metro area has a population density of 89.6 people per square. Middleburg. 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. And the people arent the only thing thats friendly rent is awfully friendly too. In fact, Onancock was called "the Gem of the Eastern Shore" by none other than Captain John Smith himself. The houses and neighborhoods are beautiful, the people are friendly, and its wonderful to have such good neighbors. Some quick facts about Centreville: the median income is $107,605. The town is full of historical sights and cultural attractions to ensure you always have something to do. Dinner Recipes. 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. We and our partners share information on your use of this website to help improve your experience. 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. Founded in 1732, this lovely little town in the Shenandoah Valley offers historic architecture, culture, and a friendly down-home atmosphere that makes its place in the rankings well-deserved. 10 Stunningly Beautiful Virginia Beaches + Tips for Picking the Right One, 11 Gorgeous Apple Orchards in Virginia (Best VA Apple Picking!). The historic downtown: Stauntons historic downtown district is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The University of Virginia is located right in the heart of town and has some of the best academics in the country, and it provides plenty of jobs. 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. Here are some of the most unique towns in Virginia: These towns all offer a unique array of history, culture, dining, and community. 3. Visited by Captain John Smith in the early 1600s, he wrote that the land was the Gem of the Eastern Shore. 18. Since each person has different budget requirements, your retirement planning will be different from someone else. When not underground in the caves,. Explore Virginia's Cities and Towns. The city of Richmond itself is lovely. But what sets it apart is the feeling of community and camaraderie you get when youre there. What is the most scenic town in Virginia? #40 and #42. 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. Retirable specializes in helping people come up with a plan that will ensure theyre well prepared for their later years. 4.9 Net Migration. The university: Blacksburg is home to Virginia Tech, which brings many cultural and economic benefits to the town. Some vacation houses allow dogs, but be aware that you cannot take ANY pet, even confined in your car, onto Assateague Island. 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. (And if you're looking for a little laugh, check out these 17 reasons you should never, ever move to Virginia.). The state of Virginia as a whole offers an excellent food scene. If you plan on making the move to Richmond soon, give us a call, wed love to help. 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! Virginia is home to many charming beach towns that have small-town American vibes, including Chincoteague, Tangier Island, and beyond. Lined with historic homes and buildings, the streets of Lexington retain the beauty of days gone by, making it easy to see why this town has been recognized by both Frommers and CitiesJournal as one of Virginias Best Small Towns. Have a great antique shop on Main St. just as you enter town Seaside Antiques and Art. Arlington is one of the most livable areas in the country, and it ranks #3 on the Top 100 Places to Live list. With that said, the one downside of Richmond is that there is a slightly higher crime rate there than the other two cities. 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. Cape Hatteras. The weather: It hardly ever snows here, making it an excellent spot for summer lovers. 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. Middleburg in Loudoun County has been listed at the top of Frommers Best Small Towns in Virginia. Perfect for: Young professionals looking for a short commute and great nightlife. Clarksville On the shore of 78sqmi (202sqkm) Kerr Lake, Clarksville is the only lakeside town in Virginia. Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 66. Fredericksburg Every corner of Fredericksburg is loaded with history. . Most residents own their homes here and there is a small-town feel in the middle of the city. 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. The towns small population mainly work as watermen, harvesting fresh seafood from the surrounding Bay waters. Just 25 miles west of Virginia Beach exists the state's second largest city, Norfolk. There are so many great cities in Virginia that its a bit hard to make a decision. Read the Magazine Quick Facts Average Household Income $73,549 Check out this article that highlights 11 of the most beautiful places to see in Virginia. 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. 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. Sign up for travel tips and inspiration delivered right to your inbox. Updated: Jan 16, 2020. Charlottesville is a town in the Commonwealth of Virginia with two high-ranking hospitals and a massive Downtown Mall. 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. Norfolk is a great place for families. There is also plenty to do outdoors, with miles of coastline for beach-goers, camping grounds, and trails for . This is one of the most expensive places to live in the state, but its costly for a reason. Leesburg is a high-demand town, which means home prices will be higher than the national average. With a population of around 42,000, it is home to Virginia Tech, one of the largest universities in the state. To see Virginia's other best of the best cities, take a look below. 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. As youd expect, unemployment and poverty figures are both correspondingly low, coming in at 5.3% and 3.8% respectively. 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. Located in the Shenandoah Valley, Staunton is a city that has much to offer its residents. Her work has appeared on Money Under 30, The Motley Fool, MoneyGeek, E-commerce Insiders, and GoBankingRates. It was known traditionally as the US Horse and Hunt Capital as it played an active role in steeplechases, foxhunting, and had large estates. Whether you're a history buff, art collector, wine enthusiast, beer aficionado, hiking lover, ghost hunter, bargain shopper, or anything in between, you'll find that Virginia has exactly what you're looking for. Over 60,000 veterans live in Virginia Beach and the city is home to Naval Air Station Oceana which is responsible for over 60,000 military take-offs and landings each year. The surrounding counties of Stafford and Spotsylvania are more affordable than the downtown, with single-family homes available in the $250,000 range. Even though Anna has lived other places, somehow Virginia is where she always seems to land. Spanning 70 miles and bordered by the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, Virginias Eastern Shore is a coastal paradise. Jump in your car and drive 137 miles Southeast of Richmond and youll find another city in Virginia. Another Washington, D.C. suburb, Alexandria is on the list of best places in Virginia for waterfront living. Its becoming something new. Easton Lovers of the great outdoors might prefer the beach or mountains, but big-city, suburban, and small-town options are also available. The average price for a home in Williamsburg is just over $300,000, lower than the state median. With a population of 16,378, Vienna is the kind of close-knit, family-friendly community that picket fence dreams are made of. 20 Cities with the Worst Weather in the U.S. How Eiza Gonzalez Achieved a Net Worth of $5 Million, How Bebe Rexha Achieved a Net Worth of $10 Million. The Most Popular Gifts of 2022. 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. The first Colonial capital of North Carolina, this 300-year-old town is replete with wonderfully restored historical homes and buildings. 10. Or just sit in a pub on the water and listen to live music. 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. The best American east coast beach towns to live in are the following: Daytona Beach, Florida. There are plenty of activities, including both a senior center and Southwest Virginia Higher Education Centers College for Older Adults. 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. And they are the closest beach town to Washington D.C. The retirement hub is Hilton Head, with many upscale communities aimed at retiring baby boomers. Blue Ridge, Ridge and Valley & Appalachian Plateau. However, many people tend to agree that one of the most scenic towns in the state is Crozet. Save. The old town area is home to colonial-era architecture and cobblestone streets, giving you a real taste of American history. Virginia Beach, Virginia. Bald Head Island. Fredericksburg was established in 1671 and is located in the Northern Virginia region of the state. 1. Check out esvatourism.org There is a tab for lodging, then a pic of a dog, click on that and you will see them. You simply cant go wrong with Onancock. The downtown: Lexington has a charming and historic downtown district worth exploring. 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. 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. Check out our guide to the best places to live in Virginia to offer. 6.3 Desirability. Radford. If you're interested in retiring near the ocean without the humidity of a tropical . View Full Report Card. 4. 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 . 1. A mammoth median property price of $485,000. 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. This one only takes up six blocks and has a population under 1,000, yes its' small. Learn more about the, Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Southwest Virginia, Abingdon has been listed as #5 on CitiesJournals Top 14 Small Towns in Virginia, #5 on Frommers Top Small Towns and Villages in Virginia, and one of USA Todays Best Southern Small Towns in the U.S. nominees. Thanks to its easy proximity to the states capital, Viennas lucky residents get to enjoy all the joys of the big city while raising their kids in a safe, peaceful environment. 14 Chincoteague. Known as the "City of Discovery," the historic coastal town of Ocean Springs is the perfect place for visitors to relax and enjoy. Be sure to share your thoughts with us and join in on the conversation by leaving a comment. At first glance, Richmond has the perfect canvas to be an amazing city. Visit former Native American villages, kayak to local wineries, and go sailing. Get more stories delivered right to your email. 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. The waterfront region is one of the best-kept secrets in the Commonwealth, boasting gorgeous beaches, incredible wildlife, and serene communities that welcome visitors to discover their quiet charm. Edenton Edenton | Photo Copyright: Lana Law Set on Albemarle Sound, Edenton is a peaceful escape from the stress of everyday life. Living in Virginia Beach offers residents a dense suburban feel and most residents own their homes. 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. If you dont like the heat, you may want to consider another town.). Easy, Cheap, 30-Minute (or Faster!) Perfect for: Families or retirees who love nature and are looking for a low cost of living. Centrally located on the Chesapeake Bay side of the Eastern Shore, Onancock is an inviting small town that was founded in 1680. 5.9 Job Market. 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. 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. Virginia staff writer for Only in Your State, freelance writer and journalist. 6.4 Quality of Life. Vivamus integer non suscipit taciti mus etiam at primis tempor sagittis euismod libero facilisi. The 20 Best Places to Live in South Africa. Others are lovely hidden gems buried right in the heart of the state. The cost of living is also low, making it a great place to live for those on a budget. The schools: Youll have access to a first-class school system. 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. But, more specifically, its for the individual that wants access to beautiful beaches, while still getting to enjoy all four seasons (without freezing to death in the winter). Well send you a 5% discount code to use whenever you are ready to get moving. 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! 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. 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. 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. 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). A growing population puts Blacksburg on the list of Virginia's best places to live for some. 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. Affordability: The cost of living is low, making it a great place to live for those on a budget. The history: If youre a fan of American history, then youll love living in Williamsburg. How long will $100,000 last me in retirement. 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. Number of Hospitals Within 25 miles of the City: 2. 158,309 16. If you love nature, youll feel right at home here. What is the best coastal town to live in North Carolina? 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. Many of the residents work for the federal government, but the 65-plus community is a thriving one, as well.