People say, “Virginia is for lovers,” but it seems like this beautiful Atlantic Coast State offers something for everyone, whether you’re a family with kids, a student, or a young professional. 

Virginia’s vast and diverse geography makes it favorable to those who plan to move there. 

But like any place, it has its downsides too, be it the bad traffic, noise pollution, or the hurricanes. 

In this blog, we will discuss in detail the pros and cons of moving to Virginia so that you can make a thoughtful decision before relocating to a new state. 

Some Interesting Facts About Virginia

According to data, people from all across the US are moving to Virginia, mostly from states like Maryland, North Carolina, Florida, and NYC. 

Here are a few interesting facts you’d like to know about Virginia before making the decision to relocate.

1. Variety of Landscapes

If you want to experience a variety of landscapes, from scenic mountain ranges to breathtaking coastal towns, then Virginia is the place to be.

For example, you’ll find the Blue Ridge Mountains in the west; the Appalachian Range features beautiful waterfalls, hiking trails, and Shenandoah National Park.

The coastal region consists of the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries, which provide opportunities for wildlife viewing and boating.

Here are a few Tourist Attractions in Virginia:

  •  Shenandoah National Park

If you want to visit scenic Virginia Mountain Towns, you must visit Shenandoah National Park.

This park offers hiking trails, waterfalls, and wildlife viewing, including black bears and deer. 

  • First Landing State Park

Situated on the Atlantic Ocean, this area has beautiful hiking trails and boating activities.

  • Great Falls Park

Here, you can find scenic views of the Potomac River, the Mather Gorge, and hiking trails. 

  • Prince Williams Forest Park

One of the good things about Virginia is its greenery. This park has lush green forests, hiking trails, camping areas, and hidden streams. 

2. Virginia’s Nickname 

Virginia’s nickname is “Old Dominion State.” The nickname was derived because Virginia was the first and the oldest of the overseas dominions of the kings and queens of England.

It is also known as the “Mother of States.”

3. Virginia is Popular For Its Peanuts

Yes, you read that right. Virginia is one of the leading peanut producers in the country.

The state peanuts are known for their large size and great flavor.

You’ll find fresh roasted peanuts at local markets and stores, and they have been an essential part of Virginia’s agriculture for centuries. 

4. The Military Presence of Virginia is Huge

Virginia is home to around 30 military bases, so it’s no surprise that military presence is a big part of life there.

If you plan to move to Virginia, there’s a good chance you’ll end up near one of these bases.

Even if you’re not living close to a military household, you’ll likely cross paths with military families through schools, local businesses, or places of worship.

5. Virginia is Known as The Mother of Presidents

Virginia is known as The Mother of Presidents. More presidents have been born in Virginia than any other state, including George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, James Monroe, William Harrison, John Tyler, Zachary Taylor, and Woodrow Wilson

6. The State Produces Great Wine

So, do you think wine country is only confined to California, Washington, Oregon, and New York? Think again. 

With over 300 wineries, the state’s got plenty of award-winning wines to explore.

Whether you’re into Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, or Chardonnay, Virginia’s wine trails are ready to help you find your new favorite.

7. Virginia is Home To One of The Largest Buildings in the World

Virginia is home to one of the largest office buildings in the world, the Pentagon.

The Pentagon serves as the headquarters of the US Department of Defense, and it includes three military services: the Army, Navy, and Air Force. The building consists of a wide network of hallways.

Despite its size, it only takes seven minutes to walk from one point to another. 

8. Internet Traffic Flows Through Northern Virginia

Yes, you read that right. Virginia is a global hub for data centers. It has been estimated that up to 70% of the internet traffic flows through Northern Virginia alone.

9. Virginia is Home To Afghan Refugees

As a result of continuous wars, several Afghans resettled in Virginia to start their lives over.

Virginia is home to the nation’s second-largest population of Afghan refugees after California.

Several Afghan refugees have already been resettled in Virginia in 2021 and restarted their lives from scratch. 

10. The State Flower is Actually a Tree

Virginia’s state flower is dogwood, which is actually a tree. The pretty blossoms, often greenish-white in color, are found in the Springtime—several Virginians plant dogwoods in their yards to celebrate their state’s symbol.

11. Virginia Has Strange Laws

People who live in Virginia know that the state has a few strange laws. 

Chesapeake modified a 50-year law that banned children above 12 from trick or treating.

Now it’s above the age of 14. The other law states that hunting animals other than raccoons on Sundays is illegal.

The third yet the latest one is a (weird) law where it is not allowed to tickle women. 

Advantages and Disadvantages of Moving To Virginia

There are several advantages of moving to Virginia. 

The state offers a perfect blend of adventurous outings and historical destinations, picturesque landscapes ranging from beautiful beaches to breathtaking mountains, a climate with four seasons, and a strong job market.

You name it, and you’ll find something for everyone here. 

On the other hand, there can be several drawbacks to moving to Virginia, including the high cost of living in some areas, especially those close to Washington, D.C.

Crazy traffic can be another issue for those who are planning to move to Virginia. 

However, as with most things, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows, but you don’t have to feel overwhelmed about making the decision to relocate. 

We’ll get into detail about the pros and cons of moving to Virginia so that you can make an informed decision in the end.

ADVANTAGES DISADVANTAGES 
Good  Job Market Cost of Living Is High
Top-Notch Educational Institutes High Sales Tax
Outdoor Recreation and Activities Crazy Traffic
Virginia Has all Four Seasons Noise Can Be a Nuisance
Less Crime Rate Allergies and High Pollen

Advantages of Moving To Virginia

If you’re planning to move to Virginia, you’ll be stunned at its many attractions. The state is known for its beautiful scenery, top-notch educational institutes, and easy-going lifestyle. 

Here are a few perks you can expect if you plan to relocate to Virginia:

1.  Good Job Market

One of the biggest benefits of living in Virginia is the growing job market.

If you’re planning to relocate there because of its booming job opportunities, this is the place for you to be.

Living near Arlington is especially convenient if you’re interested in political or government jobs since it’s close to Washington, D.C.

The unemployment rate in Virginia is lower than the national average, and there are plenty of opportunities in industries such as healthcare, defense, biomedical technology, cybersecurity, and software development.

Virginia is also home to 21 Fortune 500 companies, including Capital One, Anthem Health, and CarMax, making it a great place to build your career.

2. Top-Notch Educational Institutes

If you’re planning to move to Virginia for higher education, you’re making a great choice.

The state is home to excellent institutions like Virginia Tech, George Mason University, and James Madison University.

Known as the Old Dominion State, Virginia is one of the most educated states in the U.S., with 49.8% of its population holding a college degree.

One key reason for this is that public universities in Virginia offer discounted tuition rates for residents.

3. Outdoor Recreation and Activities

One of the most interesting things about moving to Virginia is its nature and outdoor activities.

The Chesapeake Bay, Lake Anna, Lake Drummond, and  Smith Mountain Lake provide various boating, swimming, and fishing opportunities.

And how can we forget Virginia Beach, a favorite destination for tourists and locals.

For those of you who love adventure activities, skiing on the slopes of Blue Ridge Mountains or exploring Luray Caverns (the largest cave in Eastern US) can be your go-to spots.

And if you’re someone who likes less crowded places and ecstatic beauty, then visit Shenandoah National Park, Back Bay National Wildlife or go hiking in the Appalachian Mountains (this would be a once-in-a-lifetime experience)

Pro Tip: If you love hiking or camping, invest in good hiking boots because if you’re moving to Virginia, you’ll likely visit the Appalachian Trail quite often. 

4. Virginia Has all Four Seasons

Virginia offers up to four different seasons. In winter, temperatures rarely fall below freezing, ranging from 30 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit, and snowfall is very light.

January is said to be the coldest month during winter.    

Most of the Virginia has a humid climate. Spring brings warmer weather and vibrant skies throughout the state as flowers bloom all around.

Summer can be hot, with July being the hottest month during summers, but there are several beaches along the coast where you can enjoy a cool breeze and a cold dip in the water.

You can also visit the Chesapeake Bay for breezy walks.  

Finally, the autumn is beautiful, with serene views of red and oranges as leaves change color. 

5. Less Crime Rate

Some locals say it is because of the large military presence in Virginia, which might have something to do with this rate.

However, it is relatively safe if you want to build a life here with your family.

Some of the safest cities to live in Virginia are Purcellville, Blacksburg, Lexington, Bridgewater, and Vienna.

According to U.S. News, Virginia ranks 9th in the nation for the lowest crime rate.

With a violent crime rate of 278 incidents per 100,000 people and property crime at 1,230 per 100,000, it’s considered one of the safest states in the U.S.

In fact, The News Leader reports that Virginia has one of the lowest violent crime rates in the country, based on FBI data from the Uniform Crime Reporting Program.

Some locals say it is because of the large military presence in Virginia, which might have something to do with this rate.

However, it is relatively safe if you want to build a life here with your family.

Some of the safest cities to live in Virginia are Purcellville, Blacksburg, Lexington, Bridgewater, and Vienna.

Disadvantages of Moving To Virginia

We’ve talked about some of the great things Virginia has to offer, but let’s be real—no place is all sunshine and rainbows.

Every state has its downsides, and when you’re packing up your life to start fresh, there are a few things you’ll want to think about.

Here are a few cons you can expect if you’re planning to relocate to Virginia:

1. Cost of Living is High

Virginia offers good job opportunities, but the cost of living can be high, particularly in areas near Washington, D.C., and along the coast where housing prices are expensive.

According to the MIT Cost of Living Calculator, to live comfortably in Virginia, a minimum annual income of around $117,700 is recommended for a family of two working individuals and two children and around $49,973 for an individual. 

As per the Best Places, the cost of necessities such as food, healthcare, taxes, housing, childcare, transportation, and other essentials is 4.2% higher than the US average. 

Based on Rent Cafe, the average rent for a one-room apartment in Virginia is around $1972.

The cost of rent depends on various factors, including location, size, and quality. 

Houses in larger cities will be more expensive.

For instance, the average rent in Arlington is around $2642, and the average rent in McLean is around $2810.

So, if you’re looking for cheaper alternatives, find smaller towns like Hopewell, where the average rent is around $1,153/month, or Smithfield, where the renters pay $1288/mo.

2. High Sales Tax

Unfortunately, the high tax rate in Virginia can be one of the downsides of not moving to the State.

With one of the high tax rates, Virginia takes its position at 5.3%, with an additional income tax ranging from 2%-5.75%.

If you are weighing the pros and cons of retiring in Virginia, the great news is that the state doesn’t tax social security income. Additionally, property taxes are relatively low

There is a low cost of living for retirees in Virginia compared to other US states. Housing, healthcare, and groceries are all reasonably priced. 

3. Crazy Traffic

Traffic has always been a headache in Virginia, and with more people moving to the state, the situation will likely worsen.

Road traffic can be crazy around cities and regions near Washington, D.C. 

Cities like Alexandria and Fairfax have some of the worst traffic in the US. Because most areas of Virginia lack public transportation, people usually have cars and drive everywhere.

Massive traffic occurs in the morning and evening when people return home from work.

The worst part is that waiting in traffic becomes exhausting after a long day at work. 

It is advisable that you plan your route ahead of time so that you get an idea of how much time it will take to get to and from your home, as well as avoid the highly congested areas.

Try downloading a few good podcasts, as you will need them to clear your mind and de-stress while going to and from work. 

4. Noise Can Be a Nuisance 

One drawback of living in Virginia is the noise pollution, especially if you live near a naval air station. 

The constant take-offs (around 275 per day) and landings can be loud and can make it hard for you to have a quiet and peaceful day inside your home.

Double-panned windows can help reduce noise, but there is no guarantee that you won’t get disturbed by the loud sound of a military aircraft soaring above. 

Noise pollution can adversely affect your health and cause frequent headaches, sleep disruptions, and stress.

So, it is essential to carefully choose the area where you plan to live in Virginia. 

5. Allergies and High Pollen

You don’t want to move to Virginia if you are prone to allergies.

Don’t take my word for it, but go through the statistics. 

In 2024, Virginia Beach was ranked 2nd on the list of worst cities for seasonal allergies in the US based on the Allergy Capitals report. Richmond also appeared in the 7th place

With such top rankings for both cities, it is important that people who suffer from allergies take the utmost precautions when moving to Virginia.

Their symptoms may worsen due to increased exposure to allergens like pollen. 

Are you Planning To Move to Virginia?

Thinking of relocating to Virginia? Get ready for stunning scenery, outdoor adventures, national parks, and beautiful beaches!

But wait a second, let’s be real—moving can be a hassle.

Deciding whether to plan DIY moving vs hiring a professional moving company is a big step.

When you’re relocating to a new place, there are numerous things you need to take care of.

Here’s a tip: let the professional movers handle the heavy lifting (literally) while you focus on enjoying the excitement of moving to your new home.

You can simply relax while the movers handle the difficult part of moving your stuff. 

They know exactly how to pack and move your valuables—even fragile items—so that everything arrives safely at your new home.

They can handle packing, unpacking, loading, unloading, and even furniture assembly and disassembly. 

If you have extra stuff and there is no space to store it, don’t worry; the professional movers provide temporary, climate-controlled storage solutions to safely store your belongings. 

You don’t have to hurt your back anymore; hire a professional moving company and let them make the moving process stress-free for you.

Conclusion

Just like any other state, there are pros and cons to living in Virginia.

Make sure you weigh all the advantages and disadvantages listed above carefully and then make an informed decision. 

The state offers greenery, outdoor activities, and good education, but it also has its own challenges, such as crazy traffic, noise pollution, and, most importantly, pollen allergies and mold. 

Ultimately, the decision to move to Virginia should depend on whether you can manage the cost of living in the ‘Old Dominion’ and the lifestyle you and your family plan to follow in the next 5-6 years. 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is Virginia a nice place to live?

Virginia is a great place to live. It offers all four seasons, natural scenery, excellent education, and good healthcare facilities.

It has an environment for every home buyer.

So whether you want to live in the urban areas or away from the hustle and bustle of the city, you can decide your location and plan your move accordingly. 

2. What food is famous in Virginia?

Virginia is known for its southern-style fare, including oysters, blue crabs, peanuts, country ham, BBQ, apples, trout, and Brunswick Stew. 

3. Does Virginia get a lot of thunderstorms? 

Virginia typically experiences between 30-50 thunderstorms a year, depending upon where in the state you live.

Most of the thunderstorms are observed during the summer months. 

4. Which are the affordable places to live in Virginia? 

The affordable places to live in Virginia are Martinsville, Richland, and Bluefield.

These cities offer affordable housing options and a low cost of living that is around 33% lower than the rest of the state. 

5. Is Virginia tax-free for retirees?

Virginia is tax-friendly toward retirees. Social Security income is not taxed.

Withdrawals from retirement accounts are partially taxed. The wages they get are taxed at normal rates.