Finding the best places to live in Virginia can make you enjoy the rich history, beautiful natural scenery, and superior living conditions. Whether you like to live in bustling city life, quiet rural communities, or vibrant suburbs, there is always one of the best areas to live in Virginia for you. This State provides excellent education resources, gorgeous economic development, diversified work opportunities, and convenient public transportation. You can choose to live in Alexandria, Arlington, Williamsburg, or Charlottesville; each Virginia city has unique characteristics for you to explore.
Is Virginia a good place to live in?
Virginia is a good place to live in the southeastern United States, with a long history and natural scenery.
- High Life Quality: Virginia has a high quality of life, especially in the northern area around Washington, DC. There are plenty of educational resources and perfect public facilities. The big cities and suburbs provide you with various lifestyles.
- Good Educational Resources: Many prestigious higher education institutions exist, such as the University of Virginia and the College of William and Mary, located near good places to live in Virginia. The public university system is also among the best universities in the United States.
- Beautiful Natural Scenery: Virginia has many natural scenery, including The Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah National Park and the stunning beaches of the Atlantic Coast.
- Plenty of Job Opportunities: There are many important employee markets in Virginia in information technology, defence, government, and education areas. North Virginia is close to Washington, DC, and attracts many government and technology jobs.
- Climate Diversity: You can enjoy the good weather in the best cities in Virginia, with warm summers and moderate winters. It is suitable for people who prefer to live in the best place to live in Virginia with mild climates.
Top 10 Best Places to Live in Virginia
1. Arlington
Average Cost of Living in Arlington: $2500-$4000/month
Quality of Life: 8.1/10
Known For: Pentagon, Arlington National Cemetery, Tech and Government Jobs
Arlington is one of the best places to live in Virginia and is located near Washington, DC. As one of the crucial hubs for business, culture, and transportation, Arlington provides you with a high-quality life environment, convenient public facilities, and abundant community resources.
Arlington has many excellent public facilities and services, including a top-notch school system, parks, and medical services. Subways and buses with close connections to Washington are also available, and residents can easily travel to the capital and nearby cities with this public transportation. These factors make Arlington one of the best areas to live in Virginia. There are also many popular dining options, shopping centers, and entertainment venues to explore.
2. Alexandria
Average Cost of Living in Alexandria: $3500-$4500/month
Quality of Life: 7.7/10
Known For: Historic Old Town, Culinary Scene, Cultural Heritage
Alexandria is located in northern Virginia and is close to Washington, DC. As part of the metropolitan area, you can enjoy the city’s convenience while retaining a small town’s unique charm. Alexandria is one of the best cities in Virginia, and it is famous for its historical buildings and charming community atmosphere. The Old Town in Alexandria has slate roads, old houses, museums, and fine dining options. In addition, there are many boutiques and cafes where you can socialize with friends.
For people who pursue a high-quality life, Alexandria is a good choice for you to live in the best place to live in Virginia. With safe communities, prime schools, and plenty of leisure activities, including parks and trails in the Potomac River.
3. Richmond
Average Cost of Living in Richmond: $2000-$2800/month
Quality of Life: 7.5/10
Known For: Rich History, Arts and Culture, Outdoor Activities
Richmond is the Capital of Virginia, one of the oldest cities in this State. As an essential place of the American Revolutionary War and the Civil War, Richmond is one of the great places to live in Virginia, with many historical sites and museums, including the Virginia State Capitol and the American Civil War Museum.
Richmond not only has a higher status in the past, but the degree of modernization is also very high. The city has a thriving economic growth and arts scene. Virginia Commonwealth University has a good reputation in medicine, arts, and technology.
Besides, the James River is one of the highlights of this best place to live in Virginia. This river cuts through the whole city, and riverfronts, parks, and walks give the residents opportunities to engage in outdoor activities like hiking, bicycling, and boating.
4. Virginia Beach
Average Cost of Living in Virginia Beach: $3300-$3500/month
Quality of Life: 7.5/10
Known For: Beaches, Tourism, Cultural Events, and Military Presence
Virginia Beach is one of the best places to live in Virginia and is famous for its coastline, quality living facilities, and diverse cultural atmosphere. This city is located near the Atlantic coast, with 35 miles of beaches, which is suitable for outdoor lovers. The residents can enjoy surfing, sailing, and beach walks.
Except for the attractive natural environment, Virginia Beach is also well-known for its higher education. Famous universities, including Regent University and Old Dominion University, provide a good educational choice for the family. The infrastructure of the city is advanced, and medical resources are abundant, with large shopping malls, restaurants, and other entertainment options. Economically, as a rapidly developed city, Virginia Beach has more job opportunities, especially in tourism, medicine, and defence.
5. Charlottesville
Average Cost of Living in Charlottesville: $2500-$3200/month
Quality of Life in Scores: 8/10
Known For: University of Virginia, Historic Sites, Wine and Cuisine
Charlottesville is a picturesque city in Virginia and is considered one of the best areas to live in Virginia. Charlottesville is not only the hometown of Thomas Jefferson, the third president of the United States. It is also the place for the University of Virginia to attract many international students to study there. The four seasons of Charlottesville are distinctive, with warm temperatures, and are surrounded by Blue Ridge Mountains.
The city center of Charlottesville is fulfilled with restaurants, coffee shops, and art gallieries. Moreover, the wine industry in Charlottesville is well-developed, and the nearby vineyards provide an excellent experience for winery tours. To stay in this city with a low crime rate is the best thing for you in Charlottesville. You can choose from many student housing in Charlottesville for a better life.
6. Williamsburg
Average Cost of Living in Williamsburg: $3000-$3500
Quality of Life in Scores:8/10
Known For: Historic Significance, Education, Tourism
Williamsburg is one of the best places to live in VA and is known for its colonial heritage. Williamsburg is an important historical site and provides modern life infrastructure and living environment. The most famous hotspots are the historical museums that house the recreations of colonial lives in the 18th century. You will see the well-preserved historic buildings and handicraft workshops, and you also can participate in traditional activities like crafting, farming, and performing arts.
Williamsburg is a great place for your child to receive higher education in the College of William & Mary. It is a public university that attracts many excellent students to study. There are many cultural activities, including art exhibitions, concerts, and celebrities for the festivals in this city.
7. Blacksburg
Average Cost of Living in Blacksburg: $1800-$2600/month
Quality of Life in Scores: 7/10
Known For: Outdoor Activities, Cultural Scene, Strong Economy, Diverse Dining Options
Blacksburg is situated in the southeastern part of Virginia and is full of charm. The unique natural scene and many cultural activities make it one of the best cities in Virginia. With its rolling mountain and stunning pastoral scenery, it is perfect for people who like to do outdoor activities.
Blacksburg is the homeplace of Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University and is famous for engineering, agriculture, commerce, and architecture. This university pays attention to the diversity of the student body. It always hosts concerts and sports games on campus and enriches student life. You can find various dining options and cafes to enjoy a fun time, and many stores provide fresh local fresh vegetables and fruits for you to have a nice taste.
8. Leesburg
Average Cost of Living in Leesburg: $3500-$4500/month
Quality of Life in Scores: 7.5/10
Known For: Historic Charm, Wine Country, Community Events, Proximity to Washington, D.C.
Are you wondering where the best place to live is in Virginia? Leesburg is a good choice for you. The community atmosphere of the city is warm and comprehensive. There are also many educational institutions for you to choose from, including both public and private. The nearby green spaces include Loudoun County Parks, Banshee Reeks Nature Preserve, and Stone Bridge Park, which are good for you to enjoy nature with your friends and family.
For shopping and dining, Leesburg is the best place to live in Virginia, as it provides you with a wide range of options to discover. The popular restaurants include Catoctin Creek Distillery, The Wine Kitchen, and Fire Works Pizza. The transportation of Leesburg is also convenient, and it is easy for the residents to go to nearby cities for a short travel.
9. Fulls Church
Average Cost of Living in Full Church: $2300-$4300/month
Quality of Life in Scores: 7/10
Known For: Historic Sites, Community Events, Small-Town Charm
Falls Church is one of the best cities to live in Virginia for some reasons. Firstly, the residents can enjoy convenient transportation to Falls Church, which is close to Washington, DC. There are multiple public transport lines, including metros and buses. Whether you want to tour the city or go to Washington, the residents can take transportation or drive a car quickly.
There are some popular universities near Falls Church, including George Mason University, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University. These universities provide you with various courses and research opportunities. To have more fun, you can explore the city center in this city, have delicious afternoon tea and go some shopping with friends. There are two recommended places for you: Broad Street and Mason Park.
10. Norfolk
Average Cost of Living in Norfolk: $3000-$3500/month
Quality of Life in Scores: 7/10
Known For: Naval Base, Historic Waterfront, Education, and Historic Architecture
Norfolk stands out as one of the great places to live in Virginia for the vital port city. As one of the main bases of the United States Navy, it provides students with many job opportunities and diversified educational resources. You can choose Norfolk to live for the students who want to work in maritime, defence, and other related fields.
There is a Norfolk International Airport and Amtrak train station where you can go to other cities in these two ways. The MacArthur Center and Waterside District are the top-rated shopping center where you can find restaurants, cafes, and other green spaces to relax.
For education, Eastern Virginia Medical School and Old Dominion University provide higher education in Norfolk. The students can get many academic support and research opportunities at the university.
Conclusion
Virginia is a diversified living environment with a solid economic basis and abundant natural resources to find the best places to live in Virginia. Arlington and Alexandria are the gorgeous cities in north Virginia, providing high-quality education and easy access to public transportation. At the same time, Charlottesville and Virginia Beach offer a low cost of living and are natural scenes in the middle and south of Virginia. In addition, the historical heritage, diverse culture, and plenty of outdoor activities attract more people to come to live in and get a better life experience in the best areas to live in Virginia.
FAQ
The best places to live in Virginia depend on individual preferences, but many consider Arlington a top choice. Known for its lively community, excellent institutions, and proximity to Washington, D.C., Arlington offers urban amenities and suburban charm. Another popular option is Charlottesville, renowned for its historic charm, scenic beauty, and cultural attractions, including the University of Virginia. Richmond, the state capital, boasts a rich history, diverse neighborhoods, and a growing food scene.
Vienna is one of the safest areas in Virginia, and it is known for its low crime rates, excellent schools, and a strong sense of community. Another safe option is Lake Barcroft, which offers a suburban feel and easy access to Washington, D.C. Falls Church and Alexandria are additional choices, boasting vibrant communities, historical charm, and comprehensive public services that enhance security.
Pros: Virginia is one state that boasts a rich history, beautiful landscapes, and a moderate climate. It has many educational institutions and a diverse economy, providing plenty of job opportunities. The cost of living is relatively affordable compared to other places.
Cons: Traffic congestion can be a significant issue in Virginia. Some areas may experience much higher housing costs, and the state’s climate can be divisive.
The most affordable place to live in Virginia is Danville. Known for its low cost of living, Danville offers housing prices below the national average, making it an attractive option for families and individuals. Other affordable areas in Virginia include Lynchburg and Martinsville, but Danville consistently ranks as the most cost-effective option.
