Discover Virginia’s Hidden Gems – Best Places to Retire in Virginia for Every Lifestyle
With its beautiful mountains, scenic Atlantic shoreline location on the US East Coast, and numerous national parks and museums, Virginia is an ideal retirement destination for people looking for a calm and picturesque environment with plenty of natural beauty. If you are looking for perfect Virginia retirement spots, you may want to know how Virginia ranks as a retirement state. I sure would before making such an important decision!
According to several sources, such as the personal finance site WalletHub, the “Old Dominion” is often ranked as one of the best and safest states for retirees. Are you looking for the best retirement communities in Virginia for couples? Maybe you are searching for pet-friendly retirement towns in Virginia. The likes of Atlantic Shores in Virginia Beach or Tuckahoe Pines Retirement Community in Richmond!
Here’s the good news – from the Chesapeake Bay to the Blue Ridge Mountains, Virginia offers a unique lifestyle and is a four-season destination with a “Goldilocks Climate” that isn’t too cold and not hot.
But you may wonder whether Virginia would be a suitable place for your retirement. And more importantly, which city or town is best for you?
The great thing about retiring in Virginia is that regardless of where you settle in this beautiful state, you’re just a couple of hours away from the breathtaking mountains and the serene ocean. On top of that, Virginia is one of the safest states in the country, so you won’t have to worry about home break-ins or petty theft. US News & World Report revealed that Virginia has the 6th lowest crime rate in the US.
Now, where should you settle and enjoy a carefree and memorable retirement? Falls Church or Virginia Beach? Maybe Winchester because it offers a slower pace of life with easy access to many cultural attractions! I know it can be confusing. To help you narrow down the choices, I have compiled a comprehensive list of the best places to retire in the Old Dominion. These cities and towns offer excellent leisure activities for individuals in their post-work life – boating and fishing – with ready access to nature, as Virginia is home to many national parks.
Best Places to Retire in Virginia – Top Spots and Hidden Gems
Massanetta Springs
Boasting unmatched natural beauty in the form of local forests, streams, and mountains, Massanetta Springs, VA, is located in the heart of the stunning Shenandoah Valley. Massanetta Springs Cottage Community will likely pique your interest as it offers affordable senior living apartments for rent. Plus, thanks to the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains and Lake Shenandoah, this serene location has something for every retiree, from fishing and swimming to biking and hiking.
If you are a healthy eater or conscious about your food choices, the Shenandoah Valley is famous for its delicious and authentic farm-to-table feasts and culinary experiences, providing a slew of dining options to satisfy the most discerning eaters. Also, Massanetta Springs offers numerous indoor facilities that accommodate different needs.
For instance, the Massanetta Springs Camp & Conference Center is an excellent venue for corporate events and spiritual retreats. On the other hand, the Massanutten Fitness & Rec Club offers retired residents a chance to maintain their healthy and active lifestyles.
Falls Church
If you are aiming for a luxury retirement in Virginia, Falls Church can be a great choice. Retire in an urban city known for its A+ community amenities and embrace a vibrant lifestyle (restaurants and shops galore) in Falls Church, Virginia. This quaint suburb of Washington, DC, is amongst the best places to retire in Virginia, especially for people who like quick access to mom-and-pop stores, restaurants, and retail shops.
Falls Church, VA, is an excellent retirement spot for outdoor enthusiasts. If you are an avid golfer and cannot resist a perfectly manicured green, you would also have access to many luxury golf courses and over 55 retiree communities. Falls Church, Virginia, also boasts an urban feel and small-town atmosphere, making it perfect for retirees who also prefer a vibrant city lifestyle.
Some of the top attractions include Falls Church Farmers Market, Bowl America, and Cherry Hill Farmhouse. And if you can’t find something in Falls Church, the nearby DC is only a 20-minute drive away.
Blacksburg
Home to the Moss Arts Center and Virginia Tech University, Blacksburg, VA, is a vibrant and eclectic town located in the New River Valley along the spectacular Allegheny Mountains. Whether you are a history buff or are interested in outdoor activities and shopping, this town has something to offer for everyone. Nestled between the Blue Ridge and Allegheny Mountains, Blacksburg is frequently ranked as one of the best and safest places to live in the US.
For instance, in 2014, after considering over 400 cities across the country, Forbes named Blacksburg, VA, as the top place for retirement for a number of excellent reasons. Forbes’ decision was based mainly on the city’s affordable housing options, low crime rate, and modest cost of living.
As a resident, you can enjoy a vibrant and diverse combination of outdoor events and cultural activities, such as fishing, hiking, and picnicking.
Virginia Beach
No list of Virginia retirement havens would be complete without Virginia Beach. This fantastic coastal city is known for its sandy beaches, restaurants, and shops. It is built on the foundation of our brave military, with 7 bases in the nearby areas. Some popular ones are the Naval Air Station Norfolk and Norfolk Naval Shipyard. Beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts searching for the best cities to retire in Virginia are likely to gravitate toward Virginia Beach.
Miles of pristine beaches, shops, state parks, and cafes make this city an ideal destination for retirees who prefer a comfy and laid-back lifestyle. If you are big on sports, Virginia Beach Sportsplex is an expansive sports complex with numerous sports facilities. If you are the outdoorsy type, Mount Trashmore Park and Virginia Beach Fishing Pier offer many recreational activities like hiking, biking, and fishing. Or you can simply watch the sunset.
While the cost of living in this city is a little higher than the national average, remember, it is still low when you compare it to other luxurious beachfront communities. Make the most of the amenities usually found in touristy areas, including loads of restaurants and shopping.
In 2024, Virginia Beach is not merely a military marvel. It is cited as one of the most exciting and enjoyable places on the East Coast. You can visit the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center and Cape Henry Lighthouse. The attractions and activities are never-ending, including the 3-mile-long Virginia Beach Boardwalk, which has garnered national acclaim.
This 28-foot wide marvel has been rated as one of America’s favorite spots by Discovery Channel and has also been featured in numerous magazines, like National Geographic Traveler, Coastal Living, and Southern Living. Other than the obvious attractions and entertainment benefits that will keep you engaged, Virginia Beach is also one of the safest cities in Virginia.
Richmond
Few Virginia towns and cities provide retirees with the amenities that Richmond offers. And affordability is definitely at the top of this long list. Did you know that Bloomberg rated Richmond as the second most affordable city? The cost of living in the city is 95.2, which is 8.6% lower than the average for Virginia and 4.8% lower than the US average.
If you are looking for luxury retirement in Virginia, don’t worry, as the capital city doesn’t skimp in other aspects either. Loads of cultural opportunities, the 350-mile mighty James River, and a vibrant culinary scene ensure that retirees never have a dull moment.
As a retiree, you can enjoy exploring the capital city’s many cultural and historical attractions, including the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, the Edgar Allen Poe Museum, and the Virginia State Capitol. Richmond also has a wide variety of green spaces and parks, including the famous James River Park System, where you can enjoy hiking, kayaking, and biking. The city has the unique advantages of a college town.
Also, the world-renowned Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) School of Medicine is a leading research-based medical and healthcare center that offers top-quality care.
Merrimac
Situated in Montgomery County, Virginia, and a notable part of the Blacksburg-Christiansburg Metropolitan Statistical Area, this community is well-known for its abundance of parks and highly-rated public schools. With a strong sense of community, Merrimac is a small yet vibrant place for retirees with plenty of fun outdoor activities like biking to partake in.
You can also attend a variety of yearly events nearby, including the famed Radford Redbud Festival. The area is popular with young professionals, families, and retirees, and many residents tend to lean conservative.
History buffs flock to the Coal Mining Heritage Park and Loop Trail, where they can walk through the tunnels of the Merrimac Coal Mine. This mine was once a crucial source of fuel for the mighty USS Merrimac, a Civil War icon later known as the Chesapeake S. Virginia. You cannot miss this immersive experience as it offers a fascinating glimpse into the industrial backbone of our nation’s past.
Arlington
Arlington is another great choice for retirees and is just across the Potomac River from Washington, DC. If you have seen some Hollywood action movies or crime shows, you may know that this country is famous for being home to the Pentagon. Arlington offers various cultural experiences, historical discoveries, and unexpected adventures, such as Bluemont Park, Ballston Quarter, and Virginia Highlands Park, making it an attractive destination for retirees and visitors.
So, are you ready to discover many American treasures, lively and diverse neighborhoods, an abundance of retail shops and dining and carefree fun? You will not go wrong with Arlington. I mean, what more can you really ask for? The cafes and restaurants are renowned, there is always a fun event on the calendar, and the nightlife is vibrant.
The county has some of the most iconic and impressive memorials and monuments. Arlington National Cemetery and Air Force Memorial, for example, hold the remains of servicemen and women from every US conflict, including the gravesite of President John F. Kennedy and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
These traits make Arlington another great retirement destination for people looking for a more urban feel, especially one with an eclectic local entertainment and arts scene.
Charlottesville
Charlottesville, VA, is the epitome of beauty and history. This downtown area is home to one of the leading colleges in the US. The University of Virginia offers the locals everything they need, including medical care, fine arts and recreation, and even entertainment.
Charlottesville’s unique location in central Virginia provides unique mountain trails, outdoor recreation (hiking trails and stunning mountain views), and gorgeous scenery only about one hour from Richmond.
Apart from lower retirement taxes in Virginia, Charlottesville also gives you access to picturesque wineries and vineyards and plenty of culture. The charming and elegant area boasts art museums, Monticello – Home of Thomas Jefferson, and a pedestrian mall. Plus, the nearby Blue Ridge Mountains and Historic Court Square offer all the outdoor recreation and entertainment you could want.
Charlottesville truly has something to meet the unique needs and preferences of retirees. For example, it offers more than ten top-notch assisted living facilities and numerous 55-and-over communities.
Why is Virginia One of the Best Places to Retire in the US?
Many factors and variables, such as the weather and safety, make Virginia an inviting and attractive location for retirees. You may want to avoid some states due to high tax rates, but the Commonwealth of Virginia is certainly not one of them. Some of the main benefits of retiring in Virginia are as follows:
- Virginia doesn’t tax Social Security retirement benefits received by residents.
- You are allowed to deduct up to $12,000 in pension and retirement income as a senior, depending on your specific income and filing status.
- Due to Virginia’s diverse combination of small communities and large urban areas, you have many options. Retired home buyers have a broad array of real estate options, such as condos and apartments.
- Crime rates in Virginia are considerably below national averages, including the third lowest in violent crime.
- Quick and simple access to primary physicians and emergency medical care.
- Regardless of where you settle down in Virginia, outdoor recreation and entertainment are a stone’s throw away.
Downsides of Retiring in Virginia
Virginia is an excellent state to retire in, but no matter where you decide to put down roots and enjoy your golden years, you must consider both the good and not-so-positive aspects.
Traffic Congestion
No doubt, some of Virginia’s major cities and towns provide the best amenities for retired life. However, the recent surge in population has resulted in heavy traffic congestion, particularly during the peak hours. While you might not have to be concerned about commuting to a 9 to 5 job after retirement, consider planning ahead, if you intend to visit larger cities.
Natural Disasters
Also, know that Virginia, like any region that you may consider for your retirement, experiences occasional natural disasters such as coastal storms, flooding, and thunderstorms, along with rarer events like tornadoes and earthquakes. This could be a concern for retirees residing in coastal areas.
While the risk of significant natural disasters and catastrophic events in The Old Dominion is relatively low, there’s no harm in taking necessary precautions.
Final Thoughts
Retirement is that unique and fantastic period in your life where you can fully devote your energy and time to doing precisely what you want. Instead of being bogged down due to family responsibilities or tied to the timings set by your employer, you have the liberty to set your own schedule. However, with the freedom and joys of retirement comes the reality of finding the right community, trading comfort for new experiences, or being on a tight budget.
Fortunately, Virginia offers a wide range of retirement living options, from mountain towns to coastal cities to satisfy any budget. Retiring in Virginia means you can get what you desire – easy living, a mild climate, top-class medical care, and a plethora of activities.
