Top 15 Ideal Living Locations in Virginia

When considering the optimal locations for residency in the United States, Virginia consistently ranks among the most favorable options. Often referred to as the Mother of Presidents, the state is renowned for its picturesque landscapes characteristic of the mid-Atlantic region, moderate climate, extensive cultural diversity, and more.

Virginia is distinguished as an all-encompassing state that appeals to a wide range of individuals – from the youth to the elderly, families with children to millennials, and retirees; the thoroughfares in Virginia consistently lead to fulfillment.

Ranking 11th in terms of per-capita income in the United States, Virginia is home to four of the ten wealthiest counties in the nation: Loudoun County, Falls Church City, and Fairfax County, which secured the top three positions according to a report by Code Black Group, in addition to Arlington County, positioned at No. 7.

The state offers a myriad of engaging activities for residents of all ages; Virginia’s public schools excel nationally, outperforming those in 42 states, excluding D.C. Healthcare remains a priority in this region, alongside significant opportunities for economic development, particularly for those seeking employment with the federal government.

This reinforces the notion that Virginia is indeed a haven for those who appreciate life. Nonetheless, within the highly livable landscape of the Old Dominion, certain towns and cities excel beyond others.

The following list outlines the 15 best places to live in Virginia, highlighting areas often marked by abundant sunshine and favorable conditions, grounded in the aforementioned factors.

1. Arlington

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Commencing our exploration, Arlington stands out as a vibrant city located at the juncture of Virginia and Washington, D.C. As part of Arlington County, it ranks prominently among the most desirable places to reside in America.

According to Livability.com, Arlington occupies the #3 position on the Top 100 Places to Live in the U.S., while Niche.com designates it as the Best Place to Live in Virginia and #3 among the Best Cities to Live in America.

The factors contributing to this ranking include exceptional schools, low crime rates, notable diversity, an energetic nightlife, minimal commute times, and a wide array of outdoor activities. Residents prioritize health and fitness, alongside numerous other amenities.

Curious about the cost of living? Rent averages around $2,000, with the median home value exceeding half a million.

For the advantages Arlington offers, its over 200,000 residents are more than willing to accommodate the elevated living expenses. After all, the average six-figure household income allows for a comfortable lifestyle.

Entertainment & Activities

Notable attractions in Arlington include:

• Arlington National Cemetery
• National 9/11 Pentagon Memorial
• Fashion Center at Pentagon City
• Signature Theatre
• Potomac Overlook Regional Park
• Mount Vernon Trail

2. Falls Church

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Falls Church represents an ideal location for anyone residing near the D.C. metro area. This historically rich town dates back to the 1600s when it originated as a colonial settlement.

Residents, exceeding thirteen thousand, benefit from one of the highest income averages in the state, with salaries exceeding six figures. The town exhibits a low crime rate, and its historical significance provides history enthusiasts with a wealth of attractions.

Notably, the estate of George Washington at Mount Vernon and the Arlington National Cemetery are both located here, making this a historically significant locale. However, the cost of living is notably higher here, with the median home value approaching a quarter of a million.

Entertainment & Activities

Noteworthy attractions in Falls Church include:

• Eden Center Shopping Mall
• State Theatre
• Falls Church Farmers Market
• Northside Social Falls Church
• Cherry Hill Park
• Dogwood Tavern
• Tysons Corner Center
• Bowl America Falls Church

3. Virginia Beach

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Virginia Beach, with a population exceeding four hundred thousand, ranks as one of the most populous areas in the state.

Its affordable cost of living is notable, with average home prices below the national average and rents slightly above $1,000.

Despite being a major city, Virginia Beach maintains low crime rates, making it a safe environment, particularly in a region recognized as one of Virginia’s prime tourist destinations, the Tidewater region.

The city boasts an extensive range of dining options, alongside attractions such as Mount Trashmore, the Maritime Museum, the Virginia Aquarium, and an inviting Boardwalk with beautiful beaches.

Entertainment & Activities

Prominent activities in Virginia Beach include:

• First Landing State Park
• Cape Henry Lighthouse
• Military Aviation Museum
• False Cape State Park
• Grommet Island Park
• Hunt Club Farm
• Ocean Breeze WaterPark
• Norfolk Botanical Garden

4. Chantilly

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Chantilly, a village in Fairfax County, is home to nearly twenty-four thousand residents. The historical significance of the town is encapsulated in the Battle of Chantilly, which contributes to its rich heritage.

Located approximately 25 miles from Washington, D.C., Chantilly benefits from easy access to various locations, reinforced by Dulles International Airport.

The town features several attractions, including the Ellanor C. Lawrence Park, the well-loved Sully Plantation, and the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center, which serves as an extension of the National Air and Space Museum.

Chantilly maintains relative affordability compared to other desirable locales, with median home values slightly under half a million. Residents can anticipate a low crime rate, along with the advantage of having a public library and a local newspaper titled The Centerview.

Entertainment & Activities

Prominent activities to enjoy in Chantilly include:

• Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center
• Sully Historic Site
• Monster Mini Golf Chantilly
• Ox Hill Battlefield Park
• Walmart Visitor Center
• Kid Junction Chantilly
• Shadowland Laser Adventures
• Children’s Science Center Lab

5. Williamsburg

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Next on our list of best places to reside in Virginia is Williamsburg, a community of nearly 15,000 residents established in 1632. It served as the capital of the Virginia colony from 1699 to 1780.

To those unfamiliar, experiencing life in Williamsburg can feel akin to stepping into a historical time capsule. The town hosts a vast historic district, Colonial Williamsburg, which spans 301 acres and attracts four million visitors each year.

This area offers educational and entertainment opportunities for residents and tourists through guided tours, historical reenactments, and various special events. Young families will appreciate the proximity to Busch Gardens amusement park, alongside the major shopping attraction of Williamsburg Premium Outlets.

Moreover, the town is situated near the Tidewater and Hampton Roads regions. Homes in Williamsburg are typically on par with the national average, with a price point of approximately $195,000 for a decent three-bedroom, three-bathroom property.

Entertainment & Activities

Notable activities in Williamsburg include:

• Colonial Williamsburg Visitor Center
• Busch Gardens Williamsburg
• Water Country USA
• Yorktown Battlefield
• The Virginia Beer Company
• Williamsburg Premium Outlets

6. Vienna

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Vienna, situated in Fairfax County, is home to over sixteen thousand residents. Its close proximity to D.C. classifies it as a suburb of the capital.

This community is well-suited for individuals seeking tranquil surroundings. While most of Virginia features similar neighborhoods, Vienna stands out with its unique small-town charm, offering convenient access to multiple metropolitan areas.

A variety of restaurants can be found in this town, where residents enjoy one of the highest incomes in the country. Household income averages six figures, and the cost of living reflects this, with median home values surpassing half a million.

This is the price for residing in an area frequently recognized among the top 10 best small towns in America.

Entertainment & Activities

Noteworthy activities to engage in within Vienna entail:

• Meadowlark Botanical Gardens
• Caboose Brewing Company & Tavern
• Jammin Java
• Freeman Store & Museum
• National Mall
• NOVA Wild Zoo
• Vienna Farmers Market
• Fox stone Park

7. Lorton

Source: Colin Browne / Flickr

If Vienna seems out of reach, yet you desire a pleasant residential area in Fairfax County, Lorton stands out as one of Virginia’s finest places to live. Home prices in Lorton are typically around half of those in Vienna, surpassing the national average.

However, this does not imply that Lorton is a budget-friendly neighborhood. It is, in fact, the most economical town in one of the wealthiest counties in the nation, which invariably brings certain advantages.

Crime rates in Lorton are remarkably low, rendering the community a safe and desirable place, all while offering numerous outdoor attractions.

Residents can enjoy a variety of activities thanks to places like Mason Neck State Park, Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge, and Pohick Bay Regional Park, which provide ample opportunities for wildlife observation, hiking, canoeing, and kayaking.

Entertainment & Activities

Prominent activities in Lorton include:

• Workhouse Arts Center
• Laurel Hill Golf Club
• Tamarack Stables
• Mason Neck State Park
• Fair Winds Brewing Company
• Pirate’s Cove Waterpark
• Burke Lake Park

8. Leesburg

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Staying within the affordable theme, Leesburg presents as one of the best places to reside on a budget (though not the cheapest) in Virginia, boasting a population of over forty-seven thousand in Loudon County.

As previously mentioned, Loudoun County was noted as the wealthiest county in America by Code Black Group. However, residing here does not necessarily have to be prohibitively expensive.

The median home value in Leesburg is slightly above the national average, and rental prices align similarly, averaging just over $1,000 monthly. Leesburg successfully blends historical charm with modern amenities, characterized by a vibrant downtown filled with unique shops and dining establishments.

While the cost of living is modest compared to the county’s averages, residents enjoy a median household income that also exceeds six figures, offering promising financial stability.

Entertainment & Activities

Recommended activities in Leesburg encompass:

• Morven Park Grounds
• Leesburg Premium Outlets
• Stone Tower Winery
• Leesburg Animal Park
• Loudoun Museum
• Village at Leesburg
• Casanel Vineyards Winery

9. Richmond

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Richmond may not resonate with certain demographics, such as families or retirees, due to various factors. Primarily, the school system in this city of over two hundred thousand residents does not consistently rank as among the best in a state noted for its high-performing educational institutions.

The hustle and bustle of urban living can also prove challenging for older populations, along with the typical crime rates associated with mid-sized cities.

Conversely, Richmond may captivate millennials who seek an energetic lifestyle in a city with comparatively affordable living. The median home value is under the national average, with rental prices averaging less than $1,000.

Richmond serves as home to eight Fortune 500 companies, indicating a strong economic presence primarily in sectors such as government, finance, and higher education. Furthermore, Richmond boasts an advanced transportation network supported by three interstates and offers a historic parks system established in the mid-nineteenth century.

Entertainment & Activities

Attractions in Richmond include:

• Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
• The Poe Museum
• Virginia State Capitol
• Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden
• Libby Hill Park
• Belle Isle Island
• Kings Dominion

10. Bon Air

Source: User: Morgan Riley / Wikimedia

Bon Air exemplifies the notion that a desirable place to live in Virginia can be found without excessive financial burden. For residents seeking value, few locations match Bon Air’s offerings.

The town, with a population just exceeding seventeen thousand, is situated in Chesterfield County, where home prices average slightly over $200,000, which can easily secure a lovely three-bedroom, single-family home.

However, this affordability should not mislead one into perceiving Bon Air as an undervalued community. Originally developed in the 19th century as a resort area, the town retains much of its striking Victorian architecture, reflecting its historical essence.

Schools within Bon Air are highly rated, receiving an impressive score of 9 on GreatSchools, the highest in the state. Nearly negligible crime rates, coupled with these attributes, contribute to Bon Air being an ideal neighborhood for families.

Entertainment & Activities

Some recommended activities in Bon Air include:

• Breakout Games
• Peak Experiences Rock Climbing Gym
• Victory Theater & Event Center
• South of the James Market

11. Poquoson

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If the name Poquoson appears unfamiliar, this town is historically significant, holding the title as the oldest continuously named locality in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Its name bears remarkable historical weight. However, the demographics of Poquoson present a small town environment, home to just over 12,000 residents.

The residents benefit from substantial incomes, averaging over $80,000 per household. Although its crime rate may not be as low as some other towns on our list, it remains quiet. While Poquoson lacks the variety of dining options found in other towns, it retains the advantage of proximity to numerous restaurants in the metropolitan region.

Furthermore, the town’s location within the Hampton Roads area ensures convenient access to a diverse selection of dining, shopping, and entertainment options, coupled with an impressive array of attractions nearby.

This environment is ideally suited to families, particularly given Poquoson’s high-performing educational institutions.

Entertainment & Activities

Activities in Poquoson feature:

• Virginia Living Museum
• The Mariners’ Museum and Park
• Poquoson Seafood Festival
• Fort Monroe National Monument
• Whitehouse Cove Marina
• Virginia Zoo
• Sparetimes Bowling Alley

12. Tyson’s Corner

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Tyson’s Corner represents an affluent area in Fairfax County, wherein the average price of single-family homes approaches half a million dollars.

For shopping enthusiasts, Tyson’s Corner offers unparalleled opportunities, highlighted by two renowned shopping centers, Tysons Galleria and Tysons Corner Center, featuring a medley of products to satisfy consumer wants.

However, Tyson’s Corner extends beyond mere shopping opportunities.

Residents, totaling over twenty thousand, enjoy a near-zero crime rate, to which they particularly attribute their peace of mind. Additionally, a vibrant nightlife characterizes the area, alongside some of the best-performing educational institutions in the mid-Atlantic region.

Being part of Fairfax County guarantees further benefits, including a multitude of dining options encompassing a range from Thai to Lebanese cuisine, Italian to classic local eateries, ensuring diverse culinary experiences.

Entertainment & Activities

Prominent attractions in Tyson’s Corner comprise:

• Tysons Corner Center
• Tysons Galleria
• Capital One Hall
• Capital One Center
• Great Falls Park
• AMC Tysons Corner 16

13. Herndon

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Herndon, once a primary dairy farming area, underwent significant transformation beginning in the 1960s and has since continued to flourish.

Located merely 35 minutes from Washington, D.C., Herndon is characterized by its close-knit community comprising over twenty-four thousand residents.

Residents cherish their local town spirit, highlighted by annual festivities such as the Herndon Festival, which fosters community engagement. The cost of living is relatively high, with home prices exceeding the national average.

Nevertheless, with household salaries hovering above six-figures, this remains an accessible living environment for its residents.

Entertainment & Activities

Activities worth exploring in Herndon include:

• Escape Room Herndon
• AMC Worldgate 9
• Herndon Community Center
• Jimmy’s Old Town Tavern
• Herndon Farmers Market
• Ultimate Archery
• Arts Herndon

14. Charlottesville

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Charlottesville is notably linked to eight U.S. Presidents, amongst them Thomas Jefferson, the third U.S. President, and James Monroe, the fifth President.

Additionally, the prestigious University of Virginia is located in Charlottesville.

Charlottesville earns its place among the top 15 locations to live in Virginia, not solely due to its manageable crime rate but also for its balanced mix of exceptional education systems, affordable living, efficient commute times, and a multitude of outdoor pursuits.

The town, home to over forty-five thousand residents, benefits from two distinguished hospitals and an expansive Downtown Mall, with the nearby Shenandoah National Park being a significant local attraction. Furthermore, Jefferson’s Monticello residence adds to Charlottesville’s historical significance, drawing half a million visitors annually.

Home values in Charlottesville are approximately $300,000, while rental prices are just under the $1,000 mark.

Entertainment & Activities

Popular attractions in Charlottesville include:

• University of Virginia
• The Paramount Theater
• James Monroe’s Highland
• Virginia Discovery Museum
• Downtown Shopping Mall
• Jefferson Vineyards
• McGuffey Art Center

15. Centreville

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Finally, we arrive at Centreville, a town boasting a population exceeding seventy-three thousand, predominantly composed of young families. The median home value in Centreville hovers around $400,000, a figure that may seem steep until one considers its location within affluent Fairfax County.

Centreville is characterized by its remarkable diversity, excellent public schools, and a crime rate that is virtually non-existent. It is unsurprising that it is widely recognized as a family-oriented town. The town’s two main parks, Ellanor C. Lawrence Park and Cub Run Stream Valley Park, offer a serene escape paired with beautiful surroundings ideal for hiking and biking explorations.

Entertainment & Activities

Activities to enjoy in Centreville include:

• Cinemark Centreville
• Bell Run Regional Park
• Cox Farms
• The Winery at Bull Run
• Bowlero Centreville
• Lulu Café
• Atlantis Waterpark at Bull Run
• Cub Run Stream Valley Park