In fact, Onancock was called "the Gem of the Eastern Shore" by none other than Captain John Smith himself. Fort Monroe Beach, Hampton VA. 7. And, finally, if youre into great food and craft beer, Norfolk is the place for you. We are not at all surprised. Your email address will not be published. The town also has a lively music scene and many wineries. The city is changing. As the tenth oldest state in the country, youd expect it to have its share of wealthy, sedate centers, and youd be right. 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. 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. When not underground in the caves,. Luray. You'll receive your first newsletter soon! 46.5" 15. The schools: Youll have access to a first-class school system. Local tip: Evergrain Bread Company (201-203 High St.; 410-778-3333) has some of the flakiest croissants this side of the Seine. 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. Hello, everyone who enjoys and appreciates our USA, the coastal VA rugged life style and its rich history The 46 Most Quaint and Charming Beach Towns in America For Your Best Vacation Yet. 7). I spend my free time with my family, hiking, exploring breweries and new restaurants in the area. The town is full of historical sights and cultural attractions to ensure you always have something to do. The median home value is $410,300, while the median rental price is $1,794. Just 25 miles west of Virginia Beach exists the state's second largest city, Norfolk. Every beach town has its share of pluses and minuses, which. Other Virginia towns that ranked in the list of 150 were Cape Charles, which ranked 37th and Warrenton, which ranked . The towns small population mainly work as watermen, harvesting fresh seafood from the surrounding Bay waters. Another Washington, D.C. suburb, Alexandria is on the list of best places in Virginia for waterfront living. 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. This one only takes up six blocks and has a population under 1,000, yes its' small. The large 65-plus population means youll have plenty to do, including gatherings at community centers. A commute to DC is possible from here, but its a long drive with lots of traffic. This influx of hipsters is having a massive impact on the culture of Richmond in some fabulous ways. Located in the Shenandoah Valley, Staunton is a city that has much to offer its residents. The 20 Best Places to Live in South Africa. In fact, in a CNN report, BudgetTravel named Chincoteague as the #2 Coolest Small Town in America. Ogunquit, Maine. With stunning mountain ranges, superb beaches and vibrant cities, Virginia has it all. 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. Obviously the lake is a big draw in the summer . By Brie Dyas. 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. 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. Leesburg is a high-demand town, which means home prices will be higher than the national average. The median home value is $410,300, while the median rental price is $1,794. Number 1: it's one of the newest neighborhoods in Virginia Beach. . The city is home to a variety of historic sites, including George Washington's childhood home, Ferry Farm. Providing you dont have a pointy hat, a broomstick, and a black cat at your heels, youre likely to be left spellbound by the pretty little city of Salem. With a well-funded school system and a peaceful, close-knit feel, it makes a great place to raise a family. As youd expect, unemployment and poverty figures are both correspondingly low, coming in at 5.3% and 3.8% respectively. 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 state of Virginia as a whole offers an excellent food scene. Easton Its most famous for theUniversity of Virginia and Monticello, the home of Thomas Jefferson. A small town can be anything from a couple of hundred people to 10,000. History buffs cant go wrong with Williamsburg, which is one of the oldest cities in the country. With 6 million people spread across 12,400 square miles, Maryland is one of the least congested states you can find. The city's downtown area also provides easy access to all D.C. metro area attractions. Access to the top of the lighthouse is open to the public during select visiting hours. Topsail Island. This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. The best small towns in Virginia are some of the most delightful locales in the country. 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. The best hidden gems and little known destinations - straight to your inbox. Arlington. 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. But the state does have a slightly higher cost of living than some areas of the country. North Carolina should increase to $187,536 in Virginia Beach, Virginia (assumptions include Homeowner, no Child Care, and Taxes are not considered. 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. The population of Clifton is just over 1,000 residents, making it the perfect place to live if youre looking for quiet. Visit former Native American villages, kayak to local wineries, and go sailing. With this state, the most difficult roadblock youll run into will be choosing which amazing city to call home. Dinner Recipes. 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. 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. Come Visit! 10 Stunningly Beautiful Virginia Beaches + Tips for Picking the Right One, 11 Gorgeous Apple Orchards in Virginia (Best VA Apple Picking!). Williamsburg is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. Where to Stay/Eat: Book a stay at the Charlotte Hotel, a cute boutique retreat in the heart of downtown Onancock. Here's a look at the highest-rated coastal towns to retire. But with so much to offer, the state has a little something for everyone. That may mean low crime rates, proximity to work or school, good schools for your children, or even just affordability. Arlington is a city in Virginia that offers its residents a high quality of life. Except that Kilmarnock is not on the Eastern Shore which is what the bolg is about. With a population of just over 8,000, this charming small town is surrounded by natural beauty, including the start (or finish, depending on your direction) of the. Its excellent school system and low crime numbers, meanwhile, make it one of the most attractive places on our list for raising a family. Number 2: it's one of the biggest neighborhoods in Virginia Beach. "Enjoy the abundant outdoor destinations to relax, exercise, and . There are towns and then there are small towns. Here are some of the most unique towns in Virginia: These towns all offer a unique array of history, culture, dining, and community. But one of the best features of Virginia is the abundance of small towns and communities throughout the state. Moving Company Costs Explained. What is the best coastal town to live in North Carolina? Rock Hall. 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. The locals are really nice and are generally accepting of college students. Jump in your car and drive 137 miles Southeast of Richmond and youll find another city in Virginia. Best Places to Live in Newport News, Virginia. Williamsburg is a town in Virginia founded back in 1632. Perfect for: Families or retirees who love nature and are looking for a low cost of living. 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. And they are the closest beach town to Washington D.C. Blacksburg is a small town located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. Average Annual Rainfall. 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. Anything you cant find in Falls Church will be available in nearby D.C., which is a short 20-minute drive away. What are your thoughts on our list of the 10 best small towns in Virginia? It has all the amenities and attractions you would expect from a larger city while still maintaining a close-knit community feel. Living in Virginia Beach offers residents a dense suburban feel and most residents own their homes. 100. 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. If you plan on making the move to Richmond soon, give us a call, wed love to help. This is one of the most expensive areas in the state. Founded in 1632, the town of Williamsburg has the kind of uniquely charming historic town center you could wander for hours without getting bored. Perfect for: Families who want a safe and friendly town to raise their children or young professionals who want to live near a large university. Their web site has section that shows only pet friendly rental. Chincoteague, Virginia. Perfect for: families with a high-income looking for a small-town feel with easy access to Federal government jobs. The cost of childcare, healthcare, and housing quickly racks up, especially when youre living on a single income. Median Income: $81,263. 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. If youre looking for a charming community with plenty of conveniences, Fredericksburg may be the right place for you. Retirable, Inc. ('Retirable') is an SEC registered investment advisor. And the people arent the only thing thats friendly rent is awfully friendly too. A mammoth median property price of $485,000. 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. #5 Places with the Best Public Schools in Virginia Blacksburg Town in Virginia 184 reviews Current Resident: Blacksburg is a classic small town with a lot of local businesses and restaurants to support. Feeling inspired to check out more of Virginia's small towns? It was known traditionally as the US Horse and Hunt Capital as it played an active role in steeplechases, foxhunting, and had large estates. But when you think of America's great beach towns, like the Hamptons, Miami, Malibu, Hilton Head, among many others, we get snapped right back into reality rather quickly the cost of living in these spectacular beach towns is pretty darn high! The town has a rich colonial history and many historical sites and museums. 4.9 Net Migration. Perfect for: Young professionals looking for a short commute and great nightlife. They were ranked according to their median home value, average number of rooms per house, median monthly property taxes paid and monthly housing costs. Clarksville On the shore of 78sqmi (202sqkm) Kerr Lake, Clarksville is the only lakeside town in Virginia. Schedule your FREE Retirable consultation today. Beaufort. North Carolina vs Virginia Beach, Virginia Change Places . 1. The recreational opportunities: Arlington is home to several great parks, including the famous Pentagon Row and Ballston Commons. For Virginia Citizen And Business Services Visit www.virginia.gov. Best North Carolina Beaches. Middleburg is a popular town in Virginia that is located in Loudoun County. 6.3 Desirability. The town was historically a bustling port town, with steamboats traveling between Baltimore and Norfolk stopping in the waterfront community for supplies and rest. Youll find everything from charming mountain towns to urban areas buzzing with life. Lifelong watermen and weekend sailors alike head to Rock Hall for its nautical flavor, complete with marinas, a small beach, and waterfront crabhouses. Some parts of Los Angeles do touch the Pacific Ocean, though other cities in the metro . The town is also home to the University of Mary Washington, which offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs. Virginia staff writer for Only in Your State, freelance writer and journalist. Cheap housing can sometimes mean a less than desirable neighborhood, but in Lortons case, this couldnt be further from the truth. Vienna. Virginia Beach 3,092 Beaches By JustCho2 Alexandria is a city located in Northern Virginia with a lot to offer residents. Awesome fun coastal town with farmers markets, festivals, shopping and about 1000 residents. Keep reading to see if your hometown in Virginia made the list. Virginia Economic Development Partnership Visit www.vedp.org. More interested in shopping? But, more than this, Richmond is for young professionals too with 7 fortunate 500 companies headquartered there, the opportunity for career growth is endless. The List: Best Places to Live in Virginia Most Recommended By Experts 1. You can view them all at http://www.capecharlesbnb.com. 5/15 . Open Saturdays and Sundays or if you catch me in the yard, I live right next door. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. The metro area has a population density of 89.6 people per square. 6. Check out esvatourism.org There is a tab for lodging, then a pic of a dog, click on that and you will see them. Next to my home in West Virginia, Wachapreague is my favorite place! 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. If you love nature, youll feel right at home here. Live everyday like you're on vacation in these American coastal towns with spectacular views and bargain prices. The city known for being one of the most historical places in the United States its actually among one of our countrys oldest major cities is now taking on a completely new face. Roanoke is the smallest city on the list regarding population, but it makes up for its size with its unique appeal. The history: If youre a fan of American history, then youll love living in Williamsburg. The recreation: If you love outdoor activities, youll be in heaven in Roanoke. Connecticut has 96 miles (618 miles according to the NOAA) of idyllic New England shoreline, complete with small islands, lighthouses, and top East Coast beach towns. It's possible to find a four-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom townhome with ocean views, right on the sand starting around $300,000. Just FYI, you used the photo of Cape Charles for your entry on Wachapreague. The jailhouse and courthouse that served as the earliest beginnings of the town in 1790 have both been beautifully preserved and now serve as museum buildings housing Native American artifacts, Civil War exhibits featuring Colonel John S. Mosby (a Warrenton resident), and original jail cells. In fact, when you visit Crozet, you won't be far from the countless hiking trails in Shenandoah National Park. Special events and cultural attractions will give you plenty to do. Plus, the dining scene is equally impressive. Our first sell on Virginia Beach is that it sports over 38 miles of coastline. I even used Bellhop to move from Florida to Colorado in 2021. Colonial Beach is one of the best beach towns in Virginia. Incorporated in 1810 and named for Revolutionary War hero, General Joseph Warren, this town of less than 10,000 in Fauquier County was listed as the 8th highest-income county in the U.S. according to the U.S. Census Bureau. The idea of kicking off your shoes after work and walking along the beach is pretty appealing to us and we imagine it is to you too. The scenery: Lexington is located in the Shenandoah Valley, known for its beautiful scenery. Arlington has something for everyone with top schools, low crime rates, incredible diversity, and buzzing nightlife. 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. The beautiful surroundings: The town is surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, and there are plenty of parks and nature preserves to enjoy. Throughout the city, youll find hundreds of sculptures of mermaids, the citys unofficial mascot of sorts. A growing population puts Blacksburg on the list of Virginias best places to live for some. 1. Virginia Beach is in Virginia Beach City County and is one of the best places to live in Virginia. There are a variety of restaurants, shops, and breweries located in the town center, and its conveniently close to Washington D.C. There are also some country clubs and golf courses in the area. 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 provides plenty of opportunities for hiking, nature walks, and other outdoor activities. Percentage of the Population Over 65: 18.7%. 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. Affordability: Williamsburg has a low cost of living compared to many other Virginia towns. Bald Head Island. Sun Set Beach Resort, Cape Charles. The weather: It hardly ever snows here, making it an excellent spot for summer lovers. Virginia's small towns, unique cities, and notable neighborhoods are treasure troves of great food, warm hospitality, immense history, and Southern charm. Or folks can go inland a block or two and save big bucks on a beach. 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. 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. The cities in Virginia are as beautiful and diverse as the state itself. 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. For a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape, stop by the Assateague Lighthouse on the neighboring Assateague Island. History buffs will love the historic sites and museums at every turn. In Virginia Beach there are a lot of restaurants, coffee . If youre trying to decide where to live in Virginia, theres no shortage of appealing options. Weighing in at 244,000 residents, there are plenty of benefits of living in Norfolk. To experience secluded beaches and horses, visitors head to Assateague Island National Seashore, located near Chincoteague Island. In addition, what makes Virginia especially interesting is its military influence. 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. Were loving the renaissance taking place there as well as the affordability the city has to offer. Known as the "City of Discovery," the historic coastal town of Ocean Springs is the perfect place for visitors to relax and enjoy. Lake Charles' cost of living is 11.1% lower than the national average, tied for the ninth-lowest index among coastal metro areas. 5.4 Value. Kailua, Hawaii. Fredericksburg is a historic town in Virginia preserved and revitalized in recent years. Alexandria CITY POPULATION: 159,428 SHARE OF POPULATION 65+: 13.9% A national poll voted Chincoteague as America's seventh favorite small town. We recommend Norfolk for young families looking to raise their kids in a great city among great people. Best Places to Live in Virginia Beach, Virginia Virginia Beach, Virginia is a popular summer destination for beachgoers and sun seekers alike. Martinsville. 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. 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. The Hotel Cape Charles on Main Street innCape Charles is dog friendly and a great spot! Although the town prides itself on its slower pace, the population is one of the fastest-growing in the area. in Best Places to Live #39. in Best Places to Retire; 6 Overall Rating. It has a thriving economy, excellent schools, plenty of recreational opportunities, and high quality of life. Today, Chincoteague (and sister island, Assateague) is best known for its Annual Pony Swim and Auction but also offers pristine beaches, amazing seafood, boat tours, home tours, and an all-around chilled-out beach town experience. Corrections for the Onancock section: Burnham Guides rents kayaks, SUPs and does tours from the historic Steamboat Ticket Office at Onancock Wharf. 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. 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. 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. 2. What was once a small farming community is now a thriving community of 24,384. Hanalei, HI. But, outside from the beaches, the city as a whole sports a very outdoor-centric culture. Dana has extensive professional writing experience including technical and report writing, informational articles, persuasive articles, contrast and comparison, grant applications, and advertisement. Some of them are right on the coast where in the summertime you can literally kick off your dress shoes after work and go for a walk along the beach. Central Virginia This digital edition of the Central Virginia is sponsored by Central Virginia Partnership. 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. Lexington is a small town located in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia, with a population of around 7,000. 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. La Vida Nomad | Sitemap, 11 Best Beach Towns to Live in North Carolina. Thats roughly 165 a day. Portland, Maine. As to number 3 where do you start? More than 175 colleges and universities are in the Commonwealth. Visited by Captain John Smith in the early 1600s, he wrote that the land was the Gem of the Eastern Shore. Home Living like a local The Best Places to Live in Virginia (A 2022 Guide). Piedmont. Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina. 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. Investing involves risk and past performance is not indicative of future results. 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. The historic downtown offers an array of specialty shops, boutiques, art galleries, antiques, and more, along with a surprisingly large selection of local restaurants and cafes. When not underground in the caves . Youll get all the amenities typically found in a touristy area, including plenty of restaurants and shopping. Her work has appeared on Money Under 30, The Motley Fool, MoneyGeek, E-commerce Insiders, and GoBankingRates. Considered one of the. According to Livability, Charlottesville ranks as one of the top 100 best places to live in the entire US. 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). Vivamus integer non suscipit taciti mus etiam at primis tempor sagittis euismod libero facilisi. With a population of around 42,000, it is home to Virginia Tech, one of the largest universities in the state. It served as the capital of the Virginia colony between 1699 and 1780, and today it is home to nearly 15,000 residents. $51,747.0. In addition, it has a thriving arts and culture scene. 3/15. If you dont like the heat, you may want to consider another town.). Your email address will not be published. Less than an hour from Roanoke is this small town. The shopping: Alexandria is home to some of the best shopping in Northern Virginia, with a number of high-end boutiques and restaurants. You simply cant go wrong with Onancock. Does anyone know if there are dog friendly hotels at any of the Virginia Eastern Shore areas? What about it do you like most? 1. This riverside town may have a population of less than 1,000, but it does not fall short of charm. The quality of life: The town has a high quality of life, with low crime rates and excellent schools. Surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Shenandoah Valley, this quiet little haven offers charm and history in abundance. Surrounded on all sides by Virginia wine and horse country, Warrenton enjoys one of the most idyllic spots in the state. I fully agree, I was born here and still here. 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. Staunton is no stranger to praise. Now there are small towns and then there are small towns. Its a short drive to Washington DC, and public transit is available. Looking for the top place to live in Virginia? Weve said it before and well say it again. The Most Popular Gifts of 2022. Clifton is a charming little town located just a short drive from Washington DC. Weighing in at 244,000 residents, there are plenty of benefits of living in Norfolk. Save. The Inn at Onancock loves dogs, and your pup can meet the resident, Dante, the friendly Shepherd. Virginia has dozens of small towns that offer endless charm, hospitality, and memorable adventures. 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. Well send you a 5% discount code to use whenever you are ready to get moving. For more information, see our Form ADV Part II and other disclosures. Newport News, Virginia is a charming city located on the Chesapeake Bay. Numbers 1 and 2 don't require much explanation - the population and dates speak for themselves.