10 Best Places to Live in Virginia in 2026
Virginia is a spectacular state, lavish with beautiful small towns, many of which are endowed with all kinds of attractions from beaches to national parks and more. These features of the Old Dominion State are drawcards for visitors and retreat seekers because they make a stay fun and memorable. But these towns are not just great for visits; they are also excellent places to live and raise families. After considering various factors like crime rate, cost of living, proximity to attractions, and other factors, this list has been curated, and these are indeed the best places to live in Virginia.
Bridgewater
Bridgewater is one of the safest cities in Virginia, making it alluring for those looking for a tranquil and almost crime-free place to reside. The small city, with a population of just above 6,000 people, offers a tight-knit community ideal for raising a family, retiring, and living in peace with the neighborhood while enjoying its array of recreational parks. The city boasts more than a dozen parks for recreation, with some of the best including Generations Park (great for ice skating in winter), Sandy Bottom Mini-Golf & Par-3 Golf Course, and Wildwood Park (great for picnics). It is also worth noting that housing in Bridgewater is highly competitive, although the cost of living is 6% lower than the national average.
Falls Church
Falls Church is a charming small town where peace and serenity prevail. It is also a suitable place to raise kids, boasting an active public school system that is the highest employer of labor in the area. Housing options are limited due to the town's small size, which is the smallest in Virginia. However, this small size comes with the benefit of being able to explore its parks and attractions with fewer crowds. Top attractions in Falls Church include Tinner Hill, the city's parks, Cherry Hill Farmhouse and Park, and the Historic Falls Church. Regarding the realities of living here, the crime rate is low; however, the cost of living and housing can be quite expensive.
Roanoke
Roanoke combines city amenities with a small-town vibe, making it attractive for Virginia homebuyers seeking both. The cost of living here is 8% lower than in other cities in Virginia and across the country. For outdoor activities, the Blue Ridge Mountains overlook the city, providing options like hiking, mountain biking, and climbing. Additionally, Roanoke boasts over 50 parks, such as Elmwood, Mill Mountain, and Sunrise Parks. It is also one of the top cities in the U.S. for walking and biking, with more than 30 miles of greenways along the Roanoke Valley to explore.
Lexington
The small city of Lexington is one of the best places to set up a home in Virginia, thanks to its low crime rate, one of the lowest in the state. Furthermore, the cost of living is 13% lower than the state average and 12% lower than the national average. Lexington offers many historic and natural attractions, including the Chessie Nature Trail, which is great for hiking, and the stunning nearby Natural Bridge. Most importantly, the town is a haven for those seeking tranquility and an escape from the hustle and bustle of big cities, with its population just above 7,000.
Williamsburg
Williamsburg, celebrated for its colonial history and as Virginia's former capital, provides residents with exclusive access to major historic sites, notably Colonial Williamsburg, a sprawling living history museum filled with historic buildings and monuments. Situated on the Virginia Peninsula, bordered by the James and York rivers, Williamsburg is popular for water activities. Notable attractions like the Williamsburg Botanical Gardens and Highland Park add excitement to any day. The town also features a low crime rate and a cost of living that is more affordable than in larger cities such as Miami, New York, Boston, and Dallas.
Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach, a resort destination, boasts 38 miles of beachfront for visitors and locals. According to Guinness World Records, the city’s Atlantic Ocean beach is the longest pleasure beach in the world. Besides the beach, Virginia Beach attracts people with its low unemployment rate, which was just 2.9% in November, one of the nation's lowest. The city also offers excellent healthcare, an affordable cost of living compared to nearby cities, pleasant weather, and numerous free activities. Residents have easy access to attractions like the Virginia Beach Boardwalk, First Landing State Park, Cape Henry Lighthouse, Norfolk Botanical Garden, and Sandbridge Beach.
Fairfax
Fairfax is a culturally diverse small city that is ideal for raising a family, thanks to its robust public school system. Home to George Mason University, the largest public university in Virginia, Fairfax boasts a high median salary and an environment that encourages startups, helping residents to manage the city’s relatively high cost of living. Another draw is the city’s old town, now bustling with condominiums, world-class infrastructure, restaurants, and retail stores. For relaxation, shopping, and fun, Fairfax Corner, Fair Oaks Mall, and the Fairfax Ice Arena are top destinations.
Arlington
Arlington is a vibrant city located directly across the Potomac River from Washington D.C. Its proximity to the nation's capital is a major draw for those looking to make a home here. Beyond this, Arlington offers attractions such as the Pentagon, the world's largest office building by floor area; the co-headquarters of Amazon; and Marymount University. The city boasts one of the lowest unemployment rates in Virginia at 2.1% as of November, indicating abundant job opportunities for residents. Additionally, the city is endowed with parks, with around 99% of its residents living within a 10-minute walk from one. Notable parks include the Gulf Branch Nature Center, Ocean Dunes Waterpark, and Fort C.F. Smith Park.
Alexandria
Alexandria is a picturesque city known for its historic attractions, walkable close-knit neighborhoods, and scenic waterfront. The allure of setting up a home here is strong. The city hosts many federal, state, and private agencies, with the US Department of Defense being a significant employer. Thanks to these organizations, Alexandria enjoys a very low unemployment rate. Proximity to Washington D.C. offers even more job opportunities. Although living in Alexandria can be expensive, the city’s low unemployment and crime rates compensate for the high cost of living.
Alexandria's attractions include the King Street Mile, filled with centuries-old buildings, and a waterfront lined with restaurants and boats for engaging cruises.
Richmond
Richmond, the state's capital, is a vibrant city with a lot to offer, from job opportunities in government to a cost of living that is 4% lower than the state average and 3% lower than the national average. The city's unemployment rate is also significantly low. Richmond is home to attractions like the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, the Virginia State Capitol, and the James River, which offers exceptional white-water rafting experiences.
In Conclusion
Virginia is an excellent destination for both visiting and settling down permanently. Many of its cities and towns boast affordability, low crime rates, and a wide range of attractions. These destinations also feature low unemployment rates and provide conducive environments for startups. Whether you're looking for a place to retire or raise a family, Virginia's towns offer everything necessary to ensure a fulfilling lifestyle.
