Thinking about moving to Virginia? Virginia is widely recognized for its scenic scenery, monumental historical landmarks, and laid back lifestyle.
Join us as we delve into essential information about Virginia in preparation for your upcoming relocation.
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Table of Contents
Virginia: An Overview
Located in the southeastern area of the United States, Virginia has a significant position in American history due to its historical significance as the initial state to be settled by Europeans in 1607.
The Commonwealth of Virginia is home to numerous museums, memorials, and monuments worth visiting for their historical significance. They shed significant light on numerous periods of American history.
The state is great for hiking, bird viewing, and other outdoor pursuits. The Appalachian Mountains in the west offer breathtaking views, whereas the Atlantic coastline features gorgeous beaches and bustling resorts.
In terms of weather, Virginia has a humid subtropical climate. The state’s average annual temperature is 4.3°C (39.8°F), and the average annual rainfall is 805 mm (31.7 inches). In Virginia, winters are cold and snowy, especially in mountainous regions.
As you join the estimated 8.68 million residents of Virginia, one perk to celebrate is the proximity to Washington, DC. You’ll also find multiple housing options that suit different budgets.
Why Move to Virginia?
Many people are drawn to Virginia because of its cultural diversity, pleasant environment, and historical attractions.
Here are some reasons that might entice you to move to Virginia:
- Experience All Four Seasons: Enjoy hot summer, spring, mild winter, and fall.
- Highly Tax-Friendly: Enjoy reasonable property taxes and tax benefits for retirees.
- Great Place for Retirement: Virginia’s variety of landscapes, relatively mild climate, and abundance of historical and cultural sites make it an attractive place for retirement.
- Robust Housing Market: Explore rental options in a fiercely competitive real estate market.
- Multiple Reliable Public Transportation Options: Enjoy reliable public transportation choices, including buses, trains, and cabs.
- Job Opportunities and Growing Economy: Thrive in a region characterized by a thriving job market and a steadily expanding economy,
- Low Crime Rate: Highly secure location for residence.
How Much Does It Cost to Move to Virginia?
Moving across country to Virginia varies in cost depending on the specific moving company hired and the level of service provided.
On average, the hourly rate for hiring professional movers in this state is $107 or more. However, other elements like stairs, bulky items, and packaging may affect the final cost.
The average cost of a local move is about $1,250, and for a long-distance move, it is $8,600.
We recommend using a moving cost calculator for precise expenses. Here is a pricing table for different types of moving services, such as DIY, Full Service, and Moving Containers.
| Distance | 1 Bedroom | 2 – 3 Bedroom | 4 – 5 Bedroom |
| 100 miles | $1,100 – $1,400 | $1,150 – $1,600 | $1,400 – $3,200 |
| 250 miles | $1,300 – $1,900 | $1,400 – $3,400 | $2,000 – $4,600 |
| 1,000 miles+ | $1,500 – $2,900 | $2,000 – $7,000 | $5,400 – $7,800 |
| 2,500 miles+ | $1,700 – $3,700 | $3,800 – $7,600 | $8,600+ |
Our Most Recommended Long-Distance Movers to Virginia
Getting accurate quotes is critical when looking for long-distance moving companies.
After all, you don’t want to entrust your valuable possessions to just anyone.
Here are Virginia’s top three movers we recommend when moving to Virginia:
Moving APT
- Competitive pricing
- Free online estimates
Native Van Lines
- Free 30 day storage
- Large network of movers
Adams Van Lines
- Customized moves
- Binding estimates
Pros of Moving to Virginia
1. Outdoor Recreation
Virginia offers many opportunities for nature enthusiasts to indulge in breathtaking landscapes, such as the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains and the picturesque Shenandoah Valley.
Outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, kayaking, and camping are available and within reach.
2. Diversity of Lifestyle
Virginia offers a blend of city life, suburban communities, and rural landscapes. Whether you like bustling cities or quiet small towns, Virginia is the place for you.
3. Outdoor Recreation
Enjoy the stunning beauty of Virginia, with its beautiful scenery and calm waterways.
4. Music and Arts Scene
Immerse yourself in a city that’s known for its long history of music, lively art galleries, and cultural events that inspire creativity and new ideas.
Cons of Moving to Virginia
1. Cost of Living
Virginia’s home prices have increased, making them more challenging for many people to afford. Prices are especially high in areas close to Washington, DC.
2. Humidity and Heat
Virginia has a lot of humidity in the summer, which can be annoying and lead to problems with mold in homes.
3. Property Taxes
Even though Virginia has one of the lowest income taxes in the country, property taxes are quite high.
4. Tourist Crowds
One immediate effect of overcrowding is more cars on the roads. This can lead to traffic jams on local roads, making it harder for people to get to work every day.
What's the Cost of Living in Virginia?
If you want to move long distance to Virginia, you’re probably interested to know how much it costs to live there. The projected yearly expenditure for maintaining a good standard of life within the region is approximately $48,249.
Renting a house in Virginia can range from $1,221 for a one-bedroom house to $1,839 for a four-bedroom house, depending on location. The average annual housing and utility expenditure in Virginia is approximately $8,774.
A detailed look at the factors that influence Virginia’s cost of living reveals multiple aspects:
There is a substantial disparity in the cost of living between urban and rural regions. Urban areas such as Arlington, Alexandria, and certain sections of Northern Virginia near Washington, D.C., have higher living costs than rural areas.
Moreover, tourists flock to cities like Williamsburg, Richmond, and Charlottesville because of their historical value. This raises the cost of real estate and other facilities and services.
Anyone considering relocating to Virginia should carefully assess their lifestyle options and budget. Understanding the factors that influence the cost of living allows you to organize your finances better.
What Are the Best Neighborhoods to Live in Virginia?
Moving to a new city can be exciting, but finding the best neighborhood to call home is challenging. Fortunately, the state of Virginia provides a plethora of dynamic and distinctive neighborhoods, each with its own distinct charm and allure:
1. Virginia Beach
If ocean views and sandy beaches are what you dream of, Virginia Beach might just be your haven. Despite being a popular tourist destination, the city offers home prices below the national average.
In addition, the neighborhood is not far from possible outdoor activities, such as kayaking and simply lounging on the beach.
2. Bon Air
Bon Air offers the kind of tranquility that many people long for when living close to a bustling city like Richmond. With median home prices of $359,900, it offers good value.
This neighborhood is a preferred destination for families seeking a high standard of living characterized by a tranquil atmosphere. Given the proximity to Richmond, you can easily commute for an evening of entertainment or a refined culinary experience.
3. Centreville
Located west of Arlington, Centreville combines the charm of historical architecture with modern-day luxuries. Despite being close to the capital, the home prices are somewhat in line with the national average.
Civil War history meets the modern world here. You can go hiking in the Bull Run Regional Park during the day and enjoy a glass of fine wine in the evening. It’s the best of both worlds.
4. Stone Ridge
Stone Ridge is the epitome of suburban luxury. Though it’s an hour away from D.C., the high median annual income of around $163,465 makes it a lucrative option for those who don’t mind a commute. The area’s allure and sense of exclusivity attract residents in search of a sophisticated living experience.
5. Abingdon
Abingdon is a charming option for those who want to escape to the quieter side of Virginia. Located in southwest Virginia, it offers a lower cost of living and abundant natural beauty.
Whether you want to go hiking on the Virginia Creeper Trail or enjoy a live play at the Barter Theatre, Abingdon offers a range of activities that belies its small size.
How Is the Job Market in Virginia?
Virginia has a thriving job market largely credited to its tech-centric economy. This state currently has an unemployment rate of 2.90%, lower than the nation’s unemployment rate. Therefore, if you’re looking for a new job after relocating to Virginia, chances are you won’t face any issues.
As mentioned earlier, Virginia is close to the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C. Similar to other prominent urban centers in the United States, Washington, D.C. presents a robust employment landscape that attracts individuals from many global locations.
As of September 2023, the average annual salary in Virginia is $60,177, making it a competitive option for entry-level and young professionals.
What Is Virginia Most Known For?
Virginia is a renowned tourist destination known for its historical attractions. In addition, it is well acclaimed for its breathtaking natural landscapes and numerous attractions.
Virginia is best known for the following:
1. The Appalachian Mountains and Trail
The Appalachian Mountain range runs through the state of Virginia. It is a popular place for tourists to visit because it offers many opportunities for fun activities like climbing, biking, and camping.
2. Assateague Islands
The Assateague Islands offer an ideal environment for avid bird enthusiasts. The islands are located close to the coastal regions of Maryland and Virginia. It’s a great place to escape the busy city life because the beaches are quiet.
3. Naval Station Norfolk
Naval Station Norfolk, situated in Norfolk, Virginia, functions as the primary station for the Fleet Forces Command of the United States Navy. The facility consists of a total of 14 piers and 11 hangars.
4. The Pentagon
The Pentagon was designed by American architect George Bergstrom and built by Philadelphia contractor John McShain. It is recognized as one of the largest office buildings globally, boasting an expansive floor area of approximately 6,500,000 square feet.
5. Arlington National Cemetery
Arlington National Cemetery serves as the final resting place for over 300,000 veterans.
What Are the Best Schools & Universities in Virginia?
1. Washington and Lee University (Lexington, VA)
Washington and Lee University is widely recognized as one of the top private educational institutions in the state of Virginia. The institution is known for its dedication to achieving high academic standards and its focus on fostering ethical leadership.
2. University of Virginia-Main Campus (Charlottesville, VA)
The University of Virginia is known for its challenging curriculum. They offer a diverse selection of courses in the fields of law, business, and medicine.
3. Christopher Newport University (Newport News, VA)
Christopher Newport University is a top-ranking public institution offering robust business, nursing, and psychology academic programs. The institution is renowned for its dedication to providing a well-rounded and enriching educational experience.
4. West Springfield High School (Springfield, VA)
West Springfield, which holds the 55th position among high schools, is widely recognized for its commitment to academic excellence. They offer Advanced Placement (AP) and honors courses, facilitating a thorough and balanced educational experience.
5. Langley High School (McLean, VA)
Langley High School upholds rigorous standards for scholarly practice and creative thinking. Its intellectually stimulating atmosphere inspires students to pursue their interests.
Is Moving to Virginia Worth It?
Moving to Virginia is worth it because it offers a vibrant job market and an enriching lifestyle for young professionals and families with children. This is due to the robust employment market, highly regarded educational institutions and diverse housing options.
Whether you’re drawn to the allure of serene suburbs or learning about American history, Virginia has something for everyone.
