Virginia gets under your skin in the best way possible. Every time I visit, I fall harder for this state where American history lives right next to modern food trucks. You haven’t lived until you’ve watched the sunrise paint the Blue Ridge Mountains gold or spent a perfect fall afternoon wandering through Charlottesville’s Downtown Mall with a coffee in hand.
Let me share the best places in Virginia to live, based on my countless road trips through the Old Dominion. Take Richmond, where tattoo artists and lawyers grab lunch at the same food halls, or Alexandria, where you can kayak past the Pentagon on your lunch break. If you’re looking for a place where colonial charm meets modern living (and four actual seasons), Virginia might just be your perfect match.
Most Amazing Places to Live in Virginia
Looking for the best places to live in Virginia? Explore Richmond, a city rich in history with a vibrant arts scene and thriving job market. Consider Roanoke, known for its scenic Blue Ridge Mountain views and strong sense of community. Experience Arlington, offering top-rated schools, diverse dining, and proximity to Washington, D.C. Discover Charlottesville, home to the University of Virginia, charming neighborhoods, and a lively cultural scene. Whether you’re seeking career opportunities, outdoor adventures, or a welcoming atmosphere, these are some of the best places to live in Virginia.
- Best for arts and diversity: Richmond
- Best for outdoor enthusiasts: Roanoke
- Best for urban living: Arlington
- Best for academia and culture: Charlottesville
- Best for history and charm: Williamsburg
- Best for colonial history: Alexandria
- Best for waterfront living: Norfolk
- Best for small-town feel: Leesburg
- Best for family life: Chesapeake
- Best for suburban peace: Falls Church
- Best for military families: Newport News
- Best for community and services: Vienna
1. Richmond
Virginia’s capital, Richmond, is a city where history and modernity intertwine seamlessly. Cobblestone streets, Civil War landmarks, and colonial-era architecture stand alongside a thriving arts scene, trendy boutiques, and a vibrant culinary landscape. Whether you’re indulging in Southern comfort food or exploring world-class museums, Richmond has something for everyone.
Outdoor lovers will appreciate the James River, which offers kayaking, hiking, and scenic views right in the city’s heart. The riverfront is also home to lively festivals and events, fostering a strong sense of community. Richmond’s economy is diverse, with major employers in finance, law, and healthcare, making it ideal for professionals and families alike.
With a reasonable cost of living, excellent schools, and an ever-growing cultural scene, Richmond delivers both charm and opportunity. It’s a fantastic option for those seeking a dynamic city with deep roots in history.
2. Roanoke
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Roanoke is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The Appalachian Trail, Carvins Cove, and Mill Mountain Park provide endless opportunities for hiking, biking, and kayaking. If you love fresh mountain air and scenic views, Roanoke is hard to beat.
But there’s more to Roanoke than just the outdoors. Its vibrant downtown features the historic City Market, unique boutiques, and a growing culinary scene. The Taubman Museum of Art and the Berglund Center showcase the city’s appreciation for arts and culture, while annual festivals keep the community engaged.
Roanoke also boasts a strong job market, particularly in healthcare and education, making it one of Virginia’s most livable cities. With a lower cost of living than many other Virginia cities, it’s an attractive option for families, retirees, and young professionals alike.
3. Arlington
Just across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C., Arlington offers the perfect blend of urban excitement and suburban comfort. It’s one of Virginia’s best places to live for professionals, thanks to its proximity to major government agencies, tech startups, and corporate headquarters. The strong economy makes it a hotspot for career-driven individuals.
Beyond work, Arlington offers a high quality of life. The city’s public transit system is excellent, making commuting a breeze. Green spaces like Theodore Roosevelt Island and the Mount Vernon Trail provide outdoor escapes, while a wide array of restaurants, theaters, and shopping districts add to the city’s appeal.
With top-rated schools, a low crime rate, and endless cultural experiences, Arlington is a prime location for families and young professionals alike. It’s one of Virginia’s most sought-after places to call home.
4. Charlottesville
Charlottesville offers the perfect blend of academia, history, and scenic beauty, making it one of Virginia’s most desirable places to live. Home to the prestigious University of Virginia, the city exudes intellectual energy, attracting students, professionals, and lifelong learners.
The Downtown Mall is a cultural and social hub, packed with boutique shops, farm-to-table restaurants, art galleries, and live music venues. Residents also enjoy proximity to some of Virginia’s best wineries and craft breweries, adding to the city’s appeal.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to love, with Shenandoah National Park, the Blue Ridge Parkway, and miles of scenic hiking trails nearby. The city also boasts top-rated schools, a strong job market in education, healthcare, and tech, and a high quality of life. With its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and outdoor recreation, Charlottesville offers a small-town feel with big-city amenities, making it a fantastic place to visit or call home.
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5. Williamsburg
If you’re drawn to history but still want modern conveniences, Williamsburg might be the perfect place for you. As one of the most historically significant cities in the U.S., Williamsburg transports residents back in time with its colonial architecture, reenactments, and historic sites like Colonial Williamsburg and Jamestown Settlement.
But Williamsburg isn’t stuck in the past—it’s also home to the College of William & Mary, a thriving economy, and a strong sense of community. The city offers excellent schools, family-friendly attractions like Busch Gardens, and an array of parks and trails for outdoor recreation.
The cost of living here is relatively affordable compared to Northern Virginia, and the pace of life is slower, making it a great option for retirees and families. With a perfect balance of history, education, and community, Williamsburg should be on your radar.
6. Alexandria
With its cobblestone streets, historic waterfront, and vibrant cultural scene, Alexandria offers a blend of colonial charm and modern conveniences. Located just minutes from Washington, D.C., this city is a favorite among professionals seeking a quieter, more picturesque place to live while remaining close to the capital.
Old Town Alexandria is a standout, featuring boutique shops, gourmet restaurants, and lively arts venues. History buffs will love the city’s well-preserved 18th-century architecture, guided ghost tours, and landmarks like Gadsby’s Tavern Museum.
Despite its historical roots, Alexandria offers a thriving job market, excellent schools, and a strong sense of community. The waterfront parks and biking trails provide an active outdoor lifestyle, while easy metro access makes commuting a breeze. For those looking for a city with history, elegance, and connectivity, Alexandria is a top choice.
7. Norfolk
For those drawn to coastal living and maritime charm, Norfolk is one of the best places to call home in Virginia. This waterfront city is home to the largest naval base in the world, giving it a unique cultural and economic identity.
Beyond its naval history, Norfolk has a booming arts scene, diverse culinary options, and a lively downtown. The NEON District is a hotspot for street art, galleries, and live performances. Waterside Drive offers riverfront dining, shopping, and entertainment, while the Chrysler Museum of Art adds a touch of sophistication.
Outdoor enthusiasts will love the miles of beaches, kayaking along the Elizabeth River, and easy access to the Chesapeake Bay. The city also has a strong job market in defense, shipping, and healthcare, making it a great place for professionals and families alike. If you want vibrant city life with a coastal feel, Norfolk delivers.
8. Leesburg
Tucked in Loudoun County’s scenic wine country, Leesburg is the perfect mix of small-town charm and modern amenities. Just 40 miles from Washington, D.C., this historic town offers quaint brick-lined streets, locally owned shops, and a thriving arts scene.
Leesburg is a paradise for outdoor lovers, with nearby hiking trails, the Potomac River, and plenty of parks and green spaces. It’s also home to award-winning wineries and craft breweries, making weekend getaways extra special. The town hosts seasonal festivals, farmers’ markets, and community events, ensuring there’s always something happening.
The local economy is thriving, with excellent schools, job opportunities in tech and government, and a high median income. With its safe neighborhoods, historic appeal, and easy access to D.C., Leesburg is an ideal spot for families and professionals who want the best of both city and countryside living.
9. Chesapeake
Chesapeake is one of Virginia’s most family-friendly cities, offering affordable housing, excellent schools, and abundant outdoor recreation. Located in the Hampton Roads region, it provides easy access to both Norfolk and Virginia Beach, making it a prime spot for those who want suburban tranquility with city conveniences.
With over 22 miles of waterways, lakes, and forests, Chesapeake is a haven for boaters, anglers, and hikers. The Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge is a local treasure, offering a biodiverse ecosystem for nature lovers to explore.
Beyond its natural beauty, Chesapeake has a strong economy, with jobs in healthcare, military, and logistics. The city’s low crime rate and high quality of life make it an attractive option for families. Whether you’re drawn to its expansive green spaces, welcoming community, or economic opportunities, Chesapeake stands out as a top-tier place to live in Virginia.
10. Falls Church
Falls Church offers a rare mix of urban sophistication and suburban serenity, making it one of the most desirable places to live in Northern Virginia. Just a few miles from Washington, D.C., this city is perfect for commuters seeking an easy metro ride to the capital.
Despite its proximity to D.C., Falls Church has a strong identity of its own. The community is known for its highly rated schools, walkable neighborhoods, and diverse dining scene. International cuisine thrives here, from authentic Vietnamese pho to Mediterranean delicacies.
Falls Church also prioritizes green living, with plenty of parks, trails, and sustainability initiatives. The city hosts local farmers’ markets, cultural festivals, and arts events, fostering a tight-knit and vibrant community.
For those seeking a small-city feel with big-city perks, top-notch education, and a strong community vibe, Falls Church is a fantastic choice.
11. Newport News
Blending coastal beauty, rich history, and economic opportunity, Newport News is one of Virginia’s most well-rounded cities. Located along the James River, it offers a waterfront lifestyle with plenty of parks, marinas, and outdoor activities.
History buffs will love The Mariners’ Museum and Park, which tells the story of America’s naval past, while nature enthusiasts can explore Newport News Park, one of the largest municipal parks in the country. The city also boasts a growing arts scene, family-friendly attractions, and a variety of dining and shopping options.
Newport News is a major hub for shipbuilding, aerospace, and military employment, with steady job opportunities in these industries. The cost of living is lower than in many nearby cities, making it an attractive option for young professionals and families. If you want a balance of history, affordability, and outdoor adventure, Newport News is a great place to live in.
12. Vienna
Rounding out this list is Vienna, a town that perfectly balances charm, convenience, and community spirit. Consistently ranked among Virginia’s top places to live, Vienna offers top-rated schools, low crime rates, and a strong local economy, making it an excellent choice for families and professionals alike.
Its historic downtown is a delight, featuring local boutiques, cozy cafés, and community events that create a close-knit, welcoming atmosphere. Nature lovers can take advantage of the Washington & Old Dominion Trail, a scenic path ideal for walking, biking, and jogging.
Despite its suburban feel, Vienna enjoys easy access to Washington, D.C., making it a commuter-friendly option. The town’s seasonal festivals, farmers’ markets, and live music events add to its vibrant appeal. For those seeking a picturesque, well-connected town with a strong sense of community, Vienna is a standout choice.
