Many people choose to live in Virginia for various reasons.
It is a wonderful, well-established stay with many benefits for those who decide to move there.
However, there are also some cons to consider when making a decision.
Keep reading to learn more about the pros and cons of Virginia to help decide if it is the ideal place to settle.
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Pros of Living in Virginia
Those individuals wondering what the benefits of living in Virginia might be can check out these top reasons why Virginia might be the ideal place to live.
1. Low Crime Rate
Virginia has one of the lowest crime rates of any state in the country.
There are many reasons why they have a lower crime rate.
One particular reason is the military presence in the area.
Another reason is that they have a good job market with a low homeless population.
There may be occasional crimes in the most densely populated areas.
However, the suburbs in the more rural areas of Virginia are relatively safe and ideal for raising a family.
2. Friendly People
Virginia has plenty of southern charm that can be witnessed in the demeanor of the residents.
Virginia is a friendly state full of warm and welcoming individuals.
Anyone interested in moving to a welcoming place that is easy to settle into socially will love the atmosphere in Virginia.
3. Good Job Market
Virginia has an excellent job market and plenty of jobs in all sectors.
Those currently searching for plenty of job opportunities will have a pleasant surprise if they move to Virginia.
Because of this booming job availability, Virginia has a better quality of life for its residents and many related benefits that make it an ideal place to live comfortably.
4. Thriving Economy
Virginia has a wonderfully healthy economy that allows individuals to live comfortably and enjoy the benefits of the state.
The average salary for workers in the area, as opposed to tax rates, provides for better conditions and even better state infrastructure and programs than many of the other states in the
5. Excellent Schools
Virginia has a history of having excellent public and private schools across the state.
Excellent performing schools range from elementary to high school, and most cities and towns across the state receive high test scores compared to national averages.
This makes living in Virginia the top choice for individuals with growing families who want to provide the best educational opportunities.
Before moving to any town in Virginia, take some time to check out the state school rankings for any prospective schools to find the latest test averages among the students in the area.
This access to a good education will help individuals make the best choice for themselves and their children.
6. Top Medical Facilities
Not only is Virginia a great place to get good basic medical treatment, it is also an ideal place to get advanced procedures performed or seek treatment for chronic conditions.
Some of the country’s top medical facilities are located in Virginia, with a history of providing the latest technology and state-of-the-art treatments to individuals who need them.
Anyone with chronic conditions who wants to ensure they have access to top-quality medical care will want to consider living in the state.
7. Strong Military Presence
Virginia has a history of having a strong military presence due to the abundance of bases and other military installations across the state.
Anyone currently serving in the military or his family in the military will enjoy the sense of camaraderie and all the benefits of having a strong military presence in an area.
8. Beautiful Scenery
Virginia has some of the most scenic areas anywhere in the country.
This state is known for being particularly stunning in the fall months when the leaves change in the hills and mountains are filled with sweeping autumn colors.
Virginia is also a beautiful place to live and explore during the summer months when backpacking, camping, and hiking are some top outdoor activities enjoyed by the state’s residents.
Cons of Living in Virginia
Although there are many benefits to living in the state of Virginia, there are also some downsides or cons to know about before deciding to move to the state.
1. Heavy Traffic
Virginia is known for having heavy traffic in some areas, especially in the cities.
Anyone who is unfamiliar with the area should take the time to invest in a navigation app and spend some time learning the area to avoid confusion and running late to work or other obligations.
The best course of action is to plan ahead and leave with plenty of time to arrive should there be traffic jams or any other dangerous road conditions that take extra time to navigate.
2. High Tax Rate
Virginia has one of the highest tax rates in the country at 5.3%.
This tax is placed on all consumer goods and services throughout the state.
Although this is not the highest tax rate in the country, it is something to consider if you want to stick to a budget and move to the state.
3. High Cost of Living
The high cost of living in Virginia may impact your budget if you are planning to move to the area.
Products, services, and housing are higher than the national average and may be a financial burden for some individuals.
The best way to save on living expenses is to avoid living in the urban areas or cities and settle in areas with a less dense population.
4. Plenty of historical features
Virginia is a historical state that has been a member of the United States since its early beginnings.
Many historical figures have worked and resided in the state of Virginia, and there are several museums and sites across the state to visit and enjoy.
Anyone excited by our national history and who likes to visit no notable sites will love living in this state.
5. Exceptional Autumn
When people think of colorful Autumns and sweeping landscapes of red, orange, and yellow trees, they envision a landscape like Virginia.
During Autumn, Virginia is breathtaking and filled with colors and sites.
Anyone who enjoys Autumn and its fun activities will love living in Virginia during this festive season.
6. Difficult housing market
Finding adequate and affordable housing in Virginia can be quite a challenge.
Individuals who plan to move to this area may take some precautions by shopping for an apartment or a home before moving there.
It is also worth mentioning that the cost of living is higher than in most other areas in the country, so be prepared to spend a little more on accommodation.
7. Noise Pollution
Although Virginia is a beautiful area, it is also known for having an issue with noise pollution.
Anyone who wants to avoid additional noise from populated areas should consider moving to the suburbs or a rural area where it isn’t as prevalent.
8. Sparse Public Transportation
Many states across the country have a robust public transportation system.
However, Virginia is not one of those states.
Some of the more populated areas may have public buses or similar methods of getting around, but the rural and suburban areas do not have comprehensive public transportation.
Anyone interested in moving to Virginia will likely need a vehicle to get them from one place to another without issues.
Pros and Cons of Living in Virginia – Summary Table
| Pros of Living in Virginia | Cons of Living in Virginia |
|---|---|
| 1. Low Crime Rate | 1. Heavy Traffic |
| 2. Friendly People | 2. High Tax Rate |
| 3. Good Job Market | 3. High Cost of Living |
| 4. Thriving Economy | 4. Plenty of historical features |
| 5. Excellent Schools | 5. Exceptional Autumn |
| 6. Top Medical Facilities | 6. Difficult housing market |
| 7. Strong Military Presence | 7. Noise Pollution |
| 8. Beautiful Scenery | 8. Sparse Public Transportation |
Virginia Safety Overview
READ THE FULL REPORT: Virginia Safety Review
Safety Index:
- OVERALL RISK: LOW
- TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
- PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW
- NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
- MUGGING RISK: LOW
- TERRORISM RISK: LOW
- SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM
- WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the average summer temperatures in Virginia?
Virginia is an area that can experience warmer than average summer temperatures of approximately 86 degrees.
However, Virginia can range in temperature from the lower to mid-60s to the mid-90s depending on climate activity and the location’s elevation.
What is the most densely populated area of Virginia?
Virginia Beach is the most densely populated area in Virginia, with just over 450,000 residents.
This makes Virginia Beach a moderately large city with an urban-like feel.
However, a few other cities in the state have similar populations.
Anyone who wants to avoid a heavily populated area should consider moving to the suburbs or surrounding towns near Virginia Beach to have easy access to the city without having to deal with the hassles of living in a populated area.
What is the average winter temperature in Virginia?
The average winter temperature in Virginia is 26 degrees Fahrenheit.
However, Virginia can experience brutal winter conditions if there are snow storms.
In some cases, Virginia can experience winter conditions when temperatures plummet into the negative digits and produce significant snow and ice.
Anyone considering moving to this area should take the appropriate precautions and buy protective gear for themselves and their vehicles to prevent dangers to their person or property.
Individuals who choose to move into rural areas or a region with a higher elevation should consider stocking up on emergency supplies and providing adequate maintenance and preventive measures for their vehicle when traveling can be dangerous.
Which city has the highest crime rate in Virginia?
The city in Virginia with the highest crime rate is Hillsville.
This area tends to have more frequent criminal activity and arrests than any other city or town in the state.
Anyone considering moving to the city should carefully investigate the neighborhood to determine if it suits their needs.
It is always important to use caution when living in an area with a crime or consider moving to a nearby location with less crime.
What is the most popular beach in Virginia?
Virginia Beach currently has the most popular beachside areas for residents and tourists.
This area is home to plenty of spacious and clean beaches and fun activities for the whole family.
Virginia Beach is also a densely populated city with plenty of entertainment and activities for anyone visiting who wants to enjoy the beach and see the city’s sights.
YOU NEED A CAR TO LIVE ON VIRGINIA
Crime in hillsville is low. Highest crime you’ll find in VA is Richmond.
I’m researching Virginia so this was pretty helpful. Thanks!
How exactly are historical features and exceptional autumns cons?