10 Best Places to Live in Virginia, 2024

Called the "Mother of States" due to its central role in Early American, Virginia is a great place to move to if you're looking to engage with history, culture, and commerce. With so many great cities to choose from, it can be overwhelming to figure out which is right for you.

Luckily, narrowing down your choices starts here. We’ve got your move to Virginia covered with this guide exploring the best places to live.

10 Best Places to Live in Virginia in 2024

1. Virginia Beach

• Population: 453,649
• Average Apartment Rent: $1,431
• Median Household Income: $87,544
• Walk Score: 71
• Transit Score: 59
• Bike Score: 72

Though it sees its fair share of tourists each year, Virginia Beach is more than just a prime vacation destination.

Beyond its amazing oceanfront views, Virginia Beach is suburban at heart, with affordable living, highly-rated schools, and plenty of attractions for families and singles.

New residents move to Virginia Beach from Washington, DC, New York City, and Richmond, Virginia, meaning there are many city-slickers looking to call a much smaller city home.

That said, Virginia Beach is a beach city at its core. So, if you’re moving to the city, you’ll need to consider the neighborhood you choose very carefully. Little Neck, Town Center, and Chick’s Beach make for great starting points.

Renting in Virginia Beach isn’t necessarily a break the bank experience, but you’ll need to set your apartment budget accordingly if you want to land a unit that lets you live like a king.

The city’s primary economy is driven by large corporations, including Busch, CBN, and Virginia Wesleyan University, so there are plenty of steady jobs to choose from as you relocate.

Better yet, if you're ever looking to pick up extra side hustle work, the busy season is your friend. Resorts, hotels, and restaurants are always looking for extra help to accommodate the population surge during the warmer months.

2. Chesapeake

• Population: 253,886
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,642
• Median Household Income: $92,703
• Walk Score: 21
• Transit Score: 14
• Bike Score: 35

Technically, Chesapeake hasn’t earned its designation as a city. Yes, Chesapeake does feature a bonafide city area, but it’s also brimming with natural rural glories and a few apartment rentals.

There are six distinct Chesapeake boroughs to choose from during your apartment hunt. Stick to the city’s northern region if you prefer more urban living. Chesapeake’s Washington borough contains the most urban parts of the city.

If you’d like to live closer to Chesapeake’s natural wonders, Pleasant Grove is the place to be. Otherwise, the remaining four boroughs may be more your speed.

Regardless of the neighborhood you choose, you may not have a ton of rental options, as the majority of the city is composed of homeowners and single-family homes.

However, because Chesapeake is made up of primarily single-family homes, you’ll have the ability to rent a home cheap.

Renters usually have access to amenities such as full backyards, on-site washers and dryers, and all the space and luxury that comes with living in a home as opposed to an apartment.

Better still is Chesapeake’s lovely outdoors. Within its borders, you’ll find the wetlands, a part of which is the wonderfully named Great Dismal Swamp, which also doubles as a wildlife sanctuary.

On your days off, you can take a quick trek to the Chesapeake Arboretum with its 48 acres of lush landscape and hardwood forest. You’ll have to drive there, though. Chesapeake is a car city, so you’ll absolutely need a car to get around conveniently.

3. Norfolk

• Population: 230,930
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,436
• Median Household Income: $60,998
• Walk Score: 46
• Transit Score: 36
• Bike Score: 47

Norfolk is a fun little city with tons of attractions, an interesting demographic, and a great rental market.

Though somewhat slow-moving, Norfolk is considered the heart of the Hamptons Roads metro area. The city stays true to its roots, bursting with historic buildings and sites. However, you’re more likely to find an apartment in one of the luxury apartment buildings and communities in the area.

If that sounds like your scene, start your apartment search in Norfolk’s Ghent neighborhood. It offers a lot of recreation options, a prime location, and lovely views, which make the higher cost of living there worth it.

Though Norfolk is near Virginia Beach and the Chesapeake Bay, it doesn’t get too much tourist traffic. That said, the city’s location at the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay has made it a trade hub and naval asset.

Norfolk is home to the world’s largest naval installation, Naval Station Norfolk. It’s not uncommon to see naval officers around town. This is especially true considering the 60,000+ naval personnel working and living within the station.

4. Arlington

• Population: 234,162
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $3,009
• Median Household Income: $137,387
• Walk Score: 71
• Transit Score: 59
• Bike Score: 72

Arlington's gorgeous views of the Potomac, proximity to Washington D.C., and the city’s high safety rating make Arlington one of the most in-demand cities in Virginia.

Residents can spend the day exploring the city’s many major attractions, including the National Cemetery, touring The Pentagon, or simply enjoying the river’s views.

When you get home, it’ll likely be to one of Arlington’s luxury apartment units - the city has a lot of them. However, you may not have to pay an arm and a leg to live large.

To land an affordable apartment in Arlington, you’ll need to create a strategy that includes renting at the best time of year and keeping an eye out for move-in specials.

The Ballston/Virginia Square neighborhood is a great place to start your Arlington apartment search. You’ll find a selection of newer condos and townhomes in the area with tons of amenities for those that like to live large.

Better yet, the neighborhood boasts its own Metro stop, which stays quite busy as the city’s residents flock to its many restaurants, shops, and bars.

5. Richmond

• Population: 229,247
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,448
• Median Household Income: $59,606
• Walk Score: 51
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: 51

As Virginia's capital, Richmond is rich in history. Residents love its architectural charm but have also brought modern, global amenities to the city’s culture. If you're a history buff, you'll be a regular at the Richmond National Battlefield Park and Hollywood Cemetery.

Richmond is also the job hunter’s dream city. The headquarters of six (!!!) Fortune 500 companies reside in the city.

If you're a renter, you won't be alone in Richmond. Renters outnumber homeowners in Richmond, making the market one of the most diverse for you to choose from. You’ll find that most apartment buildings in the city are quite old. However, many units have been renovated and updated to reflect modern living.

You’ll likely have the typical amenities, including a dishwasher, in-unit washer and dryer units, and central air. Better yet, all those amenities will be bundled within a charming old-school package.

Ward is the name of the game when it comes to renting in Richmond. Jackson Ward and Monroe Ward, to be precise. You’ll find great units in these downtown neighborhoods, right in the heart of the city.

Just be sure not to underestimate your rental competition. Richmond attracts ex-pats from Washington DC, Virginia Beach, and New York City — all of whom will likely be well-seasoned renters who can sniff out a great deal a mile away. Be on your A-game with regular updates from us on any new deals in the area!

6. Newport News

• Population: 183,118
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,303
• Median Household Income: $63,335
• Walk Score: 34
• Transit Score: 27
• Bike Score: 39

Newport News is the oldest English name of a US city, which explains some of its originality. It may sound like a sitcom town, but Newport News has a strong military presence as a direct result of its nearby Air Force base and other nearby military bases. You’ll find a large number of military personnel around town while you’re perusing Newport News’ many shops and restaurants.

Even if you’re not big on eating out, you’ll be drawn to the city’s seafood restaurants (oysters are Newport News’ specialty). Beyond eateries, Newport News Park has nearly 8,000 acres of green space to explore on your off-time. It’s the city’s largest park and offers a ton of fun recreational activities ranging from disc golf to hiking trails.

However, with Newport News’ low walk score and poor public transportation options, hikes in the park are about the only time you’ll be walking to get from place to place. It’s definitely a car city, but you may be able to reduce your need for a car by renting in a neighborhood that’s within walking distance of your workplace.

If you’re not sure where to start your apartment search, check out Oyster Point. It’s the heart of Newport News and is close to pretty much everything you’ll need. That said, its prime location means higher rent costs compared to other neighborhoods in the city.

7. Alexandria

• Population: 155,230
• Median 2-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $2,551
• Median Household Income: $113,179
• Walk Score: 62
• Transit Score: 55
• Bike Score: 62

Alexandria is one of the most popular Virginia cities. Its proximity to DC, booming rental market, and awe-inspiring views of the Potomac draw in prospective renters like you.

It’s a diverse city that has experienced steady population growth for the past 11 years. If you’re considering becoming one of those newcomers, check out the Old Town neighborhood for your apartment search. It has a lot of the old Virginia charm that makes the state so special.

You’ll find that many units are located in historic buildings and have been renovated for a more modern look and appeal. That means a lot more amenities without raising the price of rent to exorbitant levels that are usually associated with new builds. Due to these lower costs, great amenities, and location, Alexandria is among the best cities for remote workers.

Moreover, there are a lot of spots for dining, entertainment, and recreation located nearby. Though you’ll usually be able to hop on a bus to get to where you need to go, you’ll still likely want to own a car to get around. This is especially true if you choose to live in one of Alexandria’s far-off suburbs.

Alexandria is almost synonymous with DC commuting. Its location makes it the perfect place to call home if you want to escape the higher rent rates in Washington. Not to mention, Alexandria’s public transportation system is excellent across state lines and offers direct access to downtown DC.

8. Roanoke

• Population: 97,171
• Median Household Income: $51,523
• Walk Score: 39
• Transit Score: 28
• Bike Score: 39

Sure, it was the title of a season of American Horror Story, but Roanoke is for lovers! It has a unique appeal for someone who wants to live in a city that feels like a small town. It’s the smallest city on the list in terms of population, and you’ll certainly notice it if you’re coming from a larger city.

While this might not be what most renters are looking for, the Blue Ridge Mountains and exceptionally low cost of living compared to the cost of living in Virginia, are enough to draw prospective renters in.

Renting in Roanoke would cause even the most seasoned renter some pause. It’s not the most ideal rental market in terms of options and supply. There simply aren’t a ton of apartments on the market or a variety to choose from.

That said if you want to broaden your options, start your apartment search in Northeast Roanoke, as you’ll find a decent selection of units in the neighborhood. If you prefer to live in a more traditional large apartment building with more amenities, check out Gilmer.

Regardless of where you choose to live, you’ll need your own set of wheels to get around if your destination isn’t within walking distance. Luckily, Roanoke is a walker’s dream, with an enviable 90 Walk Score.

You’ll also have an easy time getting around via bike if you fancy yourself a cyclist.

9. Chantilly

• Population: 23,107
• Median Apartment Rent: $1,800
• Median Household Income: $137,722
• Walk Score: 30
• Transit Score: 25
• Bike Score: 42

Home to the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum Annex, Chantilly, VA is a small town with big city connections.

An incredibly diverse population, Chantilly is recognized as a suburb of D.C., with many of its residents commuting into the U.S. capital for work, school, and play. That said, Chantilly itself is well-regarded, and considered one of the best places to live in Virginia, with homes built on spacious lots, quaint local restaurants and coffee shops, and good schools. If you're looking for respite from the quick action of D.C., Chantilly is the cream on top (if we may) of Virginia towns to move to in 2024.

10. Williamsburg

• Population: 15,847
• Median 2-bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,967
• Median Household Income: $66,815
• Walk Score: N/A
• Transit Score: N/A
• Bike Score: N/A

Williamsburg is one of Virginia’s most popular places to call home, particularly for golf lovers. Williamsburg has some of the top-rated golf courses in the state!

If golf isn’t your thing, head outdoors for hiking, biking, walking and family fun. You can even bring your pup, as the area provides residents with plenty of dog-friendly parks.

True to its name, the city is home to many living history museums, which allow visitors to immerse themselves in the times past. Williamsburg also draws scores of young professionals, families, and students. The city has a lot to offer beyond its excellent safety rating and public schools.

If you plan on renting within Williamsburg, know that units within apartment communities are most common, but there are also plenty of luxury units, single-family homes, and more on the market.

Better yet, these units won’t break the bank!

Rent Prices in Our 10 Best Places to Live in Virginia

Final Thoughts - Best Places to Live in Virginia?

Virginia’s rich history and beautiful outdoor landscape make it one of the best places to live in the U.S. Choosing the right Virginia city to call home will take some planning on your part, but it’s worth the effort!

If you’ve already narrowed down your list of options, take Apartment List's easy quiz to get matched with your dream Virginia apartment.

Best Places to Live in Virginia FAQs

What is the best area to live in Virginia?

Our top choice for best area to live in Virginia is Virginia Beach because of its incredible oceanfront views, diversity, industry, educational opportunities, and robust entertainment scene.

How much money do you need to live comfortably in Virginia?

According to MIT's Living Wage calculator, two working adults with two children would need to earn $39.38 an hour to live comfortably in Virginia Beach, whereas they would need $32.22 an hour in Roanoke.

What are the pros and cons of moving to Virginia?

Pros of moving to Virginia

• Diverse landscape
• Strong economy
• Good schools
• Low crime rate
• Historic sites
• Proximity to Washington, D.C.

Cons of moving to Virginia

• High cost of living
• High taxes
• Traffic congestion
• Hot summers
• Allergies