best coastal towns in virginia to live best coastal towns in virginia to live

With stunning mountain ranges, superb beaches and vibrant cities, Virginia has it all. 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. Luray, VA. 4,842. The recreation: If you love outdoor activities, youll be in heaven in Roanoke. 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. Median Home Value: $87,700. Middleburg in Loudoun County has been listed at the top of Frommers Best Small Towns in Virginia. Add in a great cost of living and tons of southern charm and. 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. Virginia staff writer for Only in Your State, freelance writer and journalist. It's possible to find a four-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom townhome with ocean views, right on the sand starting around $300,000. Surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Shenandoah Valley, this quiet little haven offers charm and history in abundance. Lake Charles' cost of living is 11.1% lower than the national average, tied for the ninth-lowest index among coastal metro areas. 7). Its worth mentioning that every small town in Virginia is worth a visit, so while weve provided a list of some of the best towns in Virginia, its by no means an exhaustive list. Perfect for: families with a high-income looking for a small-town feel with easy access to Federal government jobs. Jennifer, Im considering moving to Virginia and am happy to hear ANY recommendations! Surrounded by beautiful mountains, Staunton provides culture a-plenty with sites like the American Shakespeare Center and The Frontier Culture Museum and offers no shortage of sensational specialty shopping, dining, and nightlife opportunities. Perfect for: Families who want to live on one income (surrounding counties) or young professionals who want to live in a historic town with a small-town feel (downtown). Virginia Beach offers well, beaches. Its an exciting metamorphosis that can be felt in the air and heard in passing conversation at trendy coffee shops and breweries like Lamplighter and The Veil. in Best Places to Live #39. in Best Places to Retire; 6 Overall Rating. During the spring, fall and summer months, everywhere you look people can be seen rollerblading, skimboarding, paddleboarding, kayaking and walking their dogs. 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. 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. By using this website, you accept our Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy. Holiday Inn in Exmore is pet friendly.It is about Midway up the VA Eastern Shore. In addition, it has a thriving arts and culture scene. This was followed by a coveted #8 spot in USA Today and 10 Bests Readers Choice for Best Coastal Small Towns. Sure, theres a lot of farms, and yes, theres a lot of cows. A national poll voted Chincoteague as America's seventh favorite small town. I spend my free time with my family, hiking, exploring breweries and new restaurants in the area. Does anyone know if there are dog friendly hotels at any of the Virginia Eastern Shore areas? Where to Stay/Eat: Book a stay at the Charlotte Hotel, a cute boutique retreat in the heart of downtown Onancock. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. You might look on the Northern Neck, in particular towns like Irvington, Kilmarnock, Montross, White Church. 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. We love smaller lesser-known cities that have a lot to offer. Other Virginia towns that ranked in the list of 150 were Cape Charles, which ranked 37th and Warrenton, which ranked . 6. 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. What about it do you like most? Perfect for: Families who want a close-knit community feel or nature lovers who want to live in a beautiful setting. 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. Its also home to Virginia Tech, which brings even more to the local economy. The town was historically a bustling port town, with steamboats traveling between Baltimore and Norfolk stopping in the waterfront community for supplies and rest. Keep reading to see if your hometown in Virginia made the list. What's the average retirement income for 2022? 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%. Weighing in at 244,000 residents, there are plenty of benefits of living in Norfolk. Or folks can go inland a block or two and save big bucks on a beach. Affordability: Williamsburg has a low cost of living compared to many other Virginia towns. . Others are lovely hidden gems buried right in the heart of the state. Another Washington, D.C. suburb, Alexandria is on the list of best places in Virginia for waterfront living. Id vote for the Refuge Inn when in Chincoteague. Check out this road trip that will take you to 6 of the most scenic small towns in Virginia. Updated: Jan 16, 2020. Virginia Beach is a city in Virginia with a population of 457,658. The Hotel Cape Charles on Main Street innCape Charles is dog friendly and a great spot! Just FYI, you used the photo of Cape Charles for your entry on Wachapreague. Los Angeles. Check out this article that highlights 11 of the most beautiful places to see in Virginia. With 6 million people spread across 12,400 square miles, Maryland is one of the least congested states you can find. You don't even have to leave the U.S. for a warm weather getaway. The cost of living is low, making it an excellent place for families or those on a budget. The city of Richmond itself is lovely. Named one of the Top 14 Small Cities In Virginia by CitiesJournal, Occoquan sits on the Occoquan River. According to Livability, Charlottesville ranks as one of the top 100 best places to live in the entire US. Affordability: The cost of living is low, making it a great place to live for those on a budget. Welcome to Virginia Beach. 10. Onancock is quite possibly one of the greatest hidden gems of the Eastern Shore. Middleburg. The cost of childcare, healthcare, and housing quickly racks up, especially when youre living on a single income. Re: smaller coastal towns. And, Richmond is weird and unique in the best kind of ways. Alexandria is located right at the states northern tip and borders the Potomac River with Washington D.C. 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. Richmond, Virginia is yet another one of these gems weve stumbled upon, making it one of the top places to live in Virginia. Here are the best places to live in Virginia. 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. Looking for the top place to live in Virginia? The towns most popular place to dine is the Wachapreague Island House Restaurant, and for an overnight stay you can either book a room at the Wachapreague Inn or travel just a few miles up the road to the Garrison Bed & Breakfast. Number 3: it's one of the best neighborhoods in Virginia Beach. More than 175 colleges and universities are in the Commonwealth. The median home value is $410,300, while the median rental price is $1,794. 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. As youd expect, unemployment and poverty figures are both correspondingly low, coming in at 5.3% and 3.8% respectively. Perfect for retirees or anyone looking for culture combined with a low cost of living. Here, we take a look at the best places to live in Virginia: whether youre a 20 something millennial or a 60 something baby boomer, youd be thrilled to call any one of these 20 hotspots your home. The university: Blacksburg is home to Virginia Tech, which brings many cultural and economic benefits to the town. Just 25 miles west of Virginia Beach exists the state's second largest city, Norfolk. Is Virginia a good place to retire? In Virginia Beach there are a lot of restaurants, coffee . Of course, the same is true for nearly every place in Virginia. 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. 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. Weve said it before and well say it again. The 20 Best Places to Live in South Africa. Clarksville On the shore of 78sqmi (202sqkm) Kerr Lake, Clarksville is the only lakeside town in Virginia. Sample fresh seafood at The Fishermans Corner Restaurant or Lorraines Seafood Restaurant. Retirable, Inc. ('Retirable') is an SEC registered investment advisor. Today, Occoquan is an artists' community, featuring shops, dining, ghost walks, boating, and fishingall with brick sidewalks lit by old-fashioned gaslights. Obviously the lake is a big draw in the summer . 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. Arlington is a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family. 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. The history: If youre a fan of American history, then youll love living in Williamsburg. In fact, when you visit Crozet, you won't be far from the countless hiking trails in Shenandoah National Park. 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, Norfolk in particular sports some extraordinarily delicious treats. The charming town center: Downtown Fredericksburg offers a variety of restaurants, shops, and breweries. Known as the "City of Discovery," the historic coastal town of Ocean Springs is the perfect place for visitors to relax and enjoy. . Percentage of the Population Over 65: 18.7%. "Enjoy the abundant outdoor destinations to relax, exercise, and . 18 places sorted by traveler favorites Clear all filters 1. 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. How Much Do Movers Cost in 2022? If youre interested in staying overnight, book a stay at the Bay View Bed & Breakfast. We coordinate local and long-distance moving services in Virginia and we would love to help! The Inn at Onancock loves dogs, and your pup can meet the resident, Dante, the friendly Shepherd. History buffs will love the historic sites and museums at every turn. Great location just a short walk from the wildlife refuge with nicely appointed rooms and decks/patios. Lovers of the great outdoors might prefer the beach or mountains, but big-city, suburban, and small-town options are also available. 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. Located in the Shenandoah Valley, Staunton is a city that has much to offer its residents. The cities in Virginia are as beautiful and diverse as the state itself. Their web site has section that shows only pet friendly rental. Retirable specializes in helping people come up with a plan. What makes Virginia such a lovely home state is that there is truly something for everyone here. A growing population puts Blacksburg on the list of Virginias best places to live for some. The 20 Best Places for Teachers to Live in the U.S. (But Williamsburg can get quite hot and humid in the summer. Most residents own their homes here and there is a small-town feel in the middle of the city. The first state to be settled in 1607, Virginia has a rich history, culture and heritage to delve into lots of spellbinding scenery. We and our partners share information on your use of this website to help improve your experience. Best Hotels & Resorts in Virginia: 12 Amazing Places to Stay, This Candy Store In Virginia Was Ripped Straight From The Pages Of A Fairytale, Discover A Little-Known Natural Wonder In Virginia On The 1.5-Mile Mountain Lake Trail, Drinks Are Served In The Coolest Setting At Gershwins, A 1920s-Themed Virginia Tavern, These 25 Towns In Virginia Have The Best Main Streets You Gotta Visit, Here Are The 11 Best Cities In Virginia To Retire, Staunton, Virginia Was Recently Named A Top Mountain Town By Southern Living Magazine, Youll Want To Spend More Time In This Historic Crabbing Town In Virginia, Greg Vassilakos (Own work) [Public domain] / Wikimedia Commons. It offers visitors a variety of attractions, including Colonial Williamsburg and Busch Gardens amusement park. 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. Some of these places are very pricey! (And if you're looking for a little laugh, check out these 17 reasons you should never, ever move to Virginia.). 158,309 16. The schools: Arlington has award-winning schools, with many ranking at the top of their respective categories. 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. Located a stone's throw away from Charlottesville, this beautiful town nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains offers an abundance of natural beauty and outdoor activities to enjoy. The next entry to our list is one for the Golden Oldies. #10. Open Saturdays and Sundays or if you catch me in the yard, I live right next door. The List: Best Places to Live in Virginia Most Recommended By Experts 1. Lexington is a small town located in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia, with a population of around 7,000. Dinner Recipes. 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. When it comes to the best small towns in Virginia, Occoquan certainly fits the bill. Features. Virginia Beach is first and foremost for the beach lover. There are also some country clubs and golf courses in the area. Radford. Ocracoke Island. How long will $100,000 last me in retirement. Explore Virginia's Cities and Towns. Or just sit in a pub on the water and listen to live music. Best Places to Live in Newport News, Virginia. 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. The sculptures are a fun way to decorate the city while also honoring its maritime roots. North Carolina should increase to $187,536 in Virginia Beach, Virginia (assumptions include Homeowner, no Child Care, and Taxes are not considered. #40 and #42. Regent University. We know. With excellent public amenities, a host of groups and organizations to join, a cost of living 7% below the national average, low-cost housing, a temperate climate, and some of the lowest crime numbers in the States, theres every reason in the world to understand why this quaint mountain town made it to Forbes Best Places to Retire for three years in a trot. Feeling inspired to check out more of Virginia's small towns? 18. 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. Corrections for the Onancock section: Burnham Guides rents kayaks, SUPs and does tours from the historic Steamboat Ticket Office at Onancock Wharf. Portland, Maine. Be sure to share your thoughts with us and join in on the conversation by leaving a comment. So why the popularity? Virginia Beach is in Virginia Beach City County and is one of the best places to live in Virginia. Hampton Bays, N.Y. Hampton Bays, N.Y., ranked 160th nationally. It has a small historic downtown and is surrounded by horse farms and elegant homes. 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. Norfolk is a great place for families. Fort Monroe Beach, Hampton VA. 7. She also enjoys creative writing, content writing on nearly any topic (particularly business and lifestyle), because as a lifelong learner, she loves to do research and possess a high skill level in this area. The weather: It hardly ever snows here, making it an excellent spot for summer lovers.