From the cobblestone streets of Lynchburg, where colonial-era charm is still evident, to the bustling city life of Alexandria, with its walkable neighborhoods and proximity to Washington D.C., there’s no shortage of options. Whether you’re looking for a quiet town with mountain views or a lively urban environment, Virginia has plenty to explore. But like any state, it comes with its challenges. In this ApartmentGuide article, we’ll break down the pros and cons of living in Virginia so you can learn what to expect.
Renting in Virginia snapshot
1. Pro: Step into the past at every turn
Virginia is like a living museum, where nearly every corner of the state holds a piece of American history. Walk the grounds of Jamestown, the first permanent English settlement in the New World, and imagine what life was like for early colonists. Stroll through Colonial Williamsburg, where actors in period dress bring the 18th century to life with blacksmith demonstrations, horse-drawn carriages, and taverns serving old-fashioned recipes. Civil War history is also deeply rooted in Virginia, with battlefields like Manassas and Appomattox offering a glimpse into the country’s most defining moments. Living here means having the past at your fingertips, making weekend trips through history as easy as hopping in the car.
2. Con: Allergy season hits hard
Spring in Virginia means blooming flowers and bright green trees, but for allergy sufferers, it also means an onslaught of sneezing and itchy eyes. The state’s high pollen levels—especially from maple, juniper, and birch trees—make certain cities, like Richmond and Virginia Beach, some of the worst in the country for seasonal allergies. Fall brings another wave of pollen, leaving many residents dealing with congestion and headaches for months at a time.
3. Pro: Four seasons, endless adventure
Virginia gives you a taste of all four seasons, each bringing something different to the table. Summers can be hot and humid, perfect for days at Virginia Beach or boating on Smith Mountain Lake. Fall transforms the Blue Ridge Parkway into a fiery display of reds and oranges, drawing road trippers and hikers eager to experience the leaves. Winters vary depending on where you are—Northern Virginia and the mountains see snowfall, while coastal areas stay milder. When spring arrives, dogwoods and cherry blossoms bloom, filling parks and neighborhoods with color. No matter the time of year, there’s always something to look forward to.
4. Con: Brace yourself for the gridlock
Traffic in Northern Virginia is some of the worst traffic you’ll experience, with congestion stretching for miles on highways like I-495, I-66, and I-95. Rush hour can feel endless, especially for those commuting into Washington D.C. The unpredictability of backups means you might leave early in hopes of beating traffic, only to still find yourself at a standstill. Public transportation helps, with Metro lines extending into the Virginia suburbs, but even that has its delays. If you’re planning to live in this part of the state, patience and a good playlist will become essential for daily commutes.
5. Pro: Bay blue crabs to legendary barbecue
Virginia’s food scene pulls from both coastal and Southern traditions, making it a great place to eat your way through local favorites. Chesapeake Bay blue crabs are a must-try, whether steamed and covered in Old Bay or turned into rich crab cakes. Richmond is known for its barbecue, with slow-smoked pork and tangy sauces drawing food lovers from across the state. Country ham, a salty delicacy often served on biscuits, has been a staple for generations. And don’t forget about peanuts—Virginia grows some of the best, with fresh-roasted varieties available in roadside shops and specialty stores.
6. Con: Big-city prices in certain areas
Virginia’s cost of living varies widely, with some areas being significantly more expensive than others. Northern Virginia, especially cities like Alexandria and Arlington, has housing prices that rival major metropolitan areas. The median home price in Alexandria is $614,950, while rent for a one-bedroom averages $2,187—numbers that can be daunting for anyone on a budget. Grocery costs, healthcare, and transportation also tend to be pricier in these regions. On the flip side, smaller towns and rural areas in the state are far more affordable.
7. Pro: Adventures for every explorer
If you love spending time outside, Virginia delivers in every way. Hikers can explore the Appalachian Trail, which runs through the western part of the state, offering breathtaking views from spots like McAfee Knob. The Chesapeake Bay provides plenty of opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and sailing, while Shenandoah National Park is packed with waterfalls and scenic overlooks. For those who prefer a slower pace, the rolling hills of wine country make for a perfect weekend escape.
8. Con: Humidity that clings to you
Summers in Virginia aren’t just hot—they’re muggy. The high humidity levels make temperatures feel even warmer, leaving you sweating within minutes of stepping outside. The closer you are to the coast, the worse it gets, as moisture from the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic Ocean keeps the air thick and heavy. Even on days when the thermometer doesn’t read extreme heat, the humidity can make it feel oppressive. Air conditioning becomes a lifeline, and many locals know to schedule outdoor activities for early morning or evening to avoid the worst of the sticky weather.
9. Pro: D.C. at your doorstep
Living in Virginia means having easy access to Washington D.C., which opens up a world of career opportunities, cultural attractions, and entertainment. Whether you’re commuting for work or just visiting for the day, the nation’s capital is packed with world-class museums, concert venues, and restaurants. The best part? Many of the city’s top attractions, like the Smithsonian museums and the National Zoo, are free. For those living in Northern Virginia, the Metro system makes getting into the city relatively easy—at least when it’s running smoothly.
10. Con: Hurricane season is no joke
Virginia’s position along the Atlantic puts it in the path of hurricanes and tropical storms, particularly in late summer and fall. Coastal cities are the most vulnerable, with strong winds, heavy rainfall, and storm surges posing serious threats. Areas near the Chesapeake Bay and the Outer Banks often deal with flooding, sometimes requiring evacuations. Even inland regions can see effects from major storms, as heavy rains lead to swollen rivers and road closures.
11. Pro: Job market that’s always thriving
With strong ties to government, technology, and defense, Virginia is one of the best places for job seekers. The Pentagon and several military bases provide a steady stream of employment, while government agencies and contracting firms in Northern Virginia fuel a massive workforce. Tech companies have also been expanding, with data centers and cybersecurity firms setting up shop in cities like Arlington and Reston. Outside of these industries, healthcare, education, and tourism create plenty of job openings, giving residents a wide range of career paths.
12. Con: Urban growth impacts Virginia’s nature
Rapid urbanization and industrial development in certain areas of Virginia contribute to environmental degradation, including air and water pollution, habitat loss, and deforestation, which can harm ecosystems and wildlife. For example, the expansion of industrial facilities along the James River in Richmond has led to increased water pollution and habitat destruction.
Methodology : The population data is from the United States Census Bureau, walkable cities are from Walk Score, and rental data is from ApartmentGuide.
