Best Places to Live in Virginia

The birthplace of eight U.S. presidents, Virginia is known as the “Mother of Presidents” as well as “Old Dominion” given to the state by King Charles II for Virginia’s loyalty to the Crown during and after the English Civil War. Not surprising, this state offers many historical landmarks and heritage. It also has the 11th highest per-capita income in America and is home to four of the country’s ten wealthiest counties: Fairfax County, Loudon County, Falls Church City and Arlington County. With its proximity to Washington DC, job opportunities within the federal government are plentiful. Some areas also offer State park and wildlife refuges where you and your family can enjoy hiking, canoeing, wildlife watching and more! 2020 Census states a population of 8,626,210. While it ranks 35th in the state for land mass, it ranks 12th due to its density of population.

BEST SMALL TOWNS IN VIRGINIA

Bon Air is considered to provide the best value for your money in Virginia. With a population of just over 17,000, this Chesterfield county town allows you to acquire a nice 3 bedroom home for just over $200,000. In fact the average home price is the very affordable $212,900. But that doesn’t mean you’re living in some undesirable area. Originally developed as a resort community in the 19th century, you’ll be inspired by the still prevalent Victorian architecture. Schools are some of the most highly rated in Virginia. Combine the fact that crime is basically non-existent with this town’s schools and cost of living and you’ve found the perfect place to grow your family or retire.

Considered an area best suited for families, Poquoson has a population of just over 12,000 yet boasts an average income of $83,735 per household. Though its smaller size limits the amount of restaurants andshopping found in some other towns, its close proximity to the metro area and Hampton Roads provides access to an abundance of dining, shopping and entertainment options. The median home price is $402,487.

An historic town, Falls Church was established as a colonial settlement dating back to the 1600s. Its historical roots and attractions such as George Washington’s Mount Vernon estate and Arlington National Cemetery, make this a history buff’s high desire location. Though a smaller city with a population of just 13,300, residents boast one of the highest income rates in the state with an average salary of $120,500. Median home values are also high at $718,900. You might think with the higher income & housing values, the crime rate would be high, yet Falls Church actually enjoys a very low rate of crime making it a great place to raise a family.

Just 25 miles from Washington D.C. and home to Dulles Internation Airport, Chantilly is popular with commuters. With a population of slightly under 24,000, history buffs will be excited to be in the place where the Battle of Chantilly happened and still plays a role in this city’s historic heritage. Some great attactions here include the Sully Plantation, Ellanor C Lawrence Park and a National Air and Space Museum extension, the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center. Considered one of Virginia’s reasonably affordable cities, the median home value is right around $456,000.

Founded in 1632 and the capital of Virginia Colony between 1699 and 1780, Williamsburg is bountiful in history and provides an affordable place to raise a family. Its massive historic district, Colonial Williamsburg, spans 301 acres and boasts upward of 4 Million visitors per year. Historical education is easily available via tours, reenactments and numerous special events hosted throughout the year. Busch Gardens Amusement Park provides a fun getaway for young families while the Williamsburg Premium Outlets is a popular shopping attraction. Its close proximity to Tidewater and Hampton Roads also makes many dining and shopping options within easy reach. The population of Williamsburg is only around 15,034 with an average home price ranging from $195,000-$320,600.

Williamsburg Homes for Sale

BEST LARGE CITIES IN VIRGINIA

Nestled on the border between Virginia and Washington D.C., Arlington is considered vibrant and one of the most livable areas in all of America. Livability.com ranks Arlington #3 on the Top 100 Places to Live in the US. Niche has also promoted it as the Best Place to Live in Virginia and #3 of Best Cities to Live in America. With a population of 223,945 and an average household income of $105,763, the median home value is considered reasonable at $607,700. Arlington offers top schools, a very low crime rate, abundant outdoor activities and a thriving nightlife.

With a population of 448,290, Virginia Beach is one of the largest and most occupied areas of Virginia while also being considered one of the safest cities. Surprisingly it also has a low cost of living with an average home value of $259,900 so is a great place to start and grow your family. In Virginia’s Tidewater region, this is also one of the state’s top tourist destinations. Numerous attractions include: the Boardwalk which is always open, the Virginia Aquarium, the Maritime Museum, Mt. Trashmore and gorgeous beaches!

The capital city of Virginia, with a population of 233,272, Richmond mostly appeals to millennials and young professionals who seek a fast paced city lifestyle while still being affordable. With a median home value of $193,700 and rentals easily available at under $900/month, it’s a great place to start building your life and career since it’s home to eight Fortune 500 companies and a vast array of government, finance and higher education sectors. Outdoor activities are also readily available with a parks system dating back to the mid-19th century.

Frequently asked questions

Question: What is the population of Virginia?

The most recent census shows the population to be 8,626,210.

Question: What is Virginia most known for?

Boasting scenic natural landscapes, temperate climate, cultural diversity and great historic heritage, Virginia is most known for being the birthplace of 8 U.S. presidents, giving it the nickname “The Mother of Presidents”.

Question: What is the median home value in Virginia?

Virginia home values in 2022 show a 21% increase over 2021 and are now averaging around $350,000.

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BEST SMALL TOWNS IN VIRGINIA

BON AIR

POQUOSON

FALLS CHURCH

CHANTILLY

WILLIAMSBURG

BEST LARGE CITIES IN VIRGINIA

ARLINGTON

VIRGINIA BEACH

RICHMOND

Frequently asked questions

Question: What is the population of Virginia?

Question: What is Virginia most known for?

Question: What is the median home value in Virginia?