Discover 12 of the best places to live in Virginia

If you’re searching for a place to put down roots that blends small-town charm with the convenience of modern living, Northern Virginia and its surrounding areas offer a dynamic array of appealing choices. Whether you’re drawn to historic towns with timeless appeal or thriving suburbs with convenient access to major cities, this region most likely has a good fit for you. Here’s a look at a dozen of the best places to live in Virginia:

Bealeton, VA – Fauquier County

Located near several major highways, Bealeton offers residents convenient access to Fredericksburg and Warrenton. This picturesque town is renowned for its affordability, open spaces, and family-friendly atmosphere. The town’s most famous attraction is the Bealeton Flying Circus—a throwback airshow featuring vintage planes and aerial stunts. Bealeton is also home to a prominent branch of the Fauquier County Public Library, as well as the world’s largest roller skate. Nearby wineries, such as Morais Vineyards & Winery, further add to the town’s appeal.

Bealeton community to explore: Foxhaven

If you’re an active-duty service member or veteran considering a move near Fort Belvoir, be sure to peruse our Military Homebuyer Guide. With many of our communities located close to military bases, we’re proud to regularly be able to support members of the armed forces. As a token of our gratitude for your service, we’ve put together this guide to provide valuable insights that will help you make confident and informed decisions when buying your next home!

Orange & Locust Grove, VA – Orange County

Nestled in the heart of Virginia’s Piedmont region, near Charlottesville, Orange is a county rich in history and culture. The James Madison Museum and Historic Bloomsbury are notable local attractions, with several Civil War battlefield tours located nearby for history buffs to explore. Agritourism is a cornerstone of Orange’s economy, as are manufacturing and healthcare. Surrounded by forests, parks, and rivers, Locust Grove is a great place for nature lovers to live. The inviting town is home to a Germanna Community College campus as well as Elwood Manor, a National Park Service property. Meanwhile, Orange’s walkable Main Street, strong school system, and frequent festivals are among the reasons it is considered one of the best places to live in Virginia.

Orange County communities to explore: Seasons at Round Hill Meadows & Wilderness Shores

Culpeper, VA – Culpeper County

Named the “Prettiest Town in Virginia” by Architectural Digest in 2018, Culpeper is an attractive place to live for a plethora of reasons. Buoyed by a revitalized downtown with exciting shopping and dining options, Culpeper has seen a significant renaissance in recent years. The town’s economy currently centers around the manufacturing, agriculture, and technology industries and town officials are proactive in supporting small businesses. The county is also served by the Culpeper Regional Airport. Residents are able to enjoy access to the Library of Congress’ Packard Campus, experience a variety of events and frequent the popular Culpeper Colonnade. Culpeper also boasts train and bus stations offering service into major metropolitan centers, with several major highways augmenting its access to surrounding areas, including lively Albemarle County.

Culpeper community to explore: The Greens

Accokeek, MD – Prince George’s County

Just across the Potomac River in Maryland, you’ll find the charming town of Accokeek. Meaning “at the edge of the hill” in Algonquin, Accokeek boasts close proximity to both Washington, D.C. and Mount Vernon via I-495, making it a popular place to live for Capital Region commuters. Main attractions in the town include Piscataway Park, the National Colonial Farm and Accokeek Park. Boasting a strong and diverse economy, prominent employers in Prince George’s County include federal agencies, such as NASA, the I.R.S. and the U.S. Census Bureau, as well as high-profile private sector companies such as United Parcel Service, Verizon and Marriott International.

Accokeek community to explore: St. James

Williamsport, MD – Washington County

Also located just across the state line, Williamsport offers breathtaking scenery and a tranquil quality of life. Managed by the National Park Service, the town’s C&O Canal towpath is popular among hikers, bikers and joggers. If you enjoy fishing, select sections of the canal have plenty to offer, as does the nearby Potomac River. The Williamsport Historic District was officially recognized by the National Register of Historic Places in 2001, with Byron Memorial Park and Springfield Farm further adding to the town’s character. These amenities combined with easy access to employment hubs in Hagerstown and Martinsburg via I-70 and I-81 make Williamsport a great option for families and young professionals alike.  

Williamsport community to explore: Elmwood Farm

Spotsylvania, VA – Spotsylvania County

Situated between bustling Richmond and cosmopolitan Washington, D.C., Spotsylvania blends suburban comfort with vintage charm. Having played an important role in American history, its heritage lives on at landmarks like the Spotsylvania Courthouse Battlefield. In addition to a compelling past that attracts a large quantity of tourists, Spotsylvania also has a thriving present and a bright future. Popular stores, restaurants and breweries currently call Spotsylvania home, as do several entertainment and recreation-based businesses. All in all, it’s easy to see why Spotsylvania is one of the best places to live in Virginia.

Spotsylvania community to explore: Keswick

Ruther Glen, VA – Caroline County

Renowned for its affordability and low crime rate, Caroline County’s Ruther Glen has a lot to offer prospective residents. Golfers will appreciate the impressive local options, while outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the area’s numerous parks and walking trails. The award-winning county has seen significant population growth in recent years, with the Virginia State Fair now being held at its Meadow Event Park. Additional family-friendly events taking place regularly in the area include a popular farmer’s market, an agricultural fair and a harvest festival. Prominent employment hubs in Metro Richmond are less than an hour away from Ruther Glen via 1-95, with several local businesses playing a large role in the area’s recent economic growth. The county’s culinary fare is wide-ranging, with everything from seafood to gourmet Italian to classic American cuisine readily available to residents.

Ruther Glen community to explore: Pendleton

Middletown, Winchester & Stephens City, VA – Frederick County

Part of the scenic Shenandoah Valley, Middleton bills itself as being the “gateway to Cedar Creek and Belle Grove National Historical Park.” The Belle Grove Plantation is another notable local attraction, as is Heritage Park. The Backroom Brewery is a popular Middleton watering hole, with the Sly Fox Golf Club providing residents with the opportunity to hit the links when they so desire.

Highlights of beautiful Winchester include an inspired Old Town district, a vibrant nightlife scene and myriad family-friendly entertainment options. The administrative center of Frederick County, Winchester is home to several noteworthy restaurants, museums, orchards and historical landmarks. Residents can enjoy outdoor activities along the Winchester Green Circle Trail and at nearby nature preserves. With its top-rated schools, a dynamic healthcare sector, and exciting annual events like the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival, Winchester is truly a must-see for Northern Virginia house hunters.

Just south of Winchester, Stephens City’s popular attractions include Newtown Commons, Bel Air Street Park and Sherando Park. The town’s impressive economy includes a variety of businesses and has seen substantial growth in recent years, a trend which aligns with the progress of the rest of Frederick County.

Frederick County communities to explore: Seasons at Middletown Place, Abrams Pointe & Fairfax Downs

Fredericksburg, VA – Stafford County

Often referred to as “America’s Most Historic Small City,” Fredericksburg is closely tied to George Washington—whose family lived nearby at Ferry Farm and Kenmore—and the Revolutionary War. The city continues to preserve over 350 historic sites, including the Fredericksburg Town Hall and Market Square. Its charming downtown features cobblestone streets, boutique shops, well-regarded restaurants, artisan distilleries and cultural attractions. With strong commuter access via the Virginia Railway Express and abundant recreation opportunities along nearby Rappahannock River, Fredericksburg truly offers the best of both worlds in terms of rural charm and urban convenience.

Fredericksburg community to explore: White Oak Reserve

Living in Northern Virginia offers an enticing blend of convenience, charm, and opportunity. With its strategic location, temperate climate, thriving economy, and family-friendly ambiance, it’s easy to see why so many people are drawn to the region. From the Civil War-era architecture of Winchester to the rustic appeal of Bealeton and the vibrant cultural scene in Fredericksburg, each town listed above offers something unique. Whether your priorities include a short commute, notable schools, outdoor recreation, or a deep connection to history, there’s likely a good match for your lifestyle on this list of the best places to live in Virginia. Happy house hunting!

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Want more information? Our knowledgeable New Home Specialists can be reached at 888.799.8322. They’re happy to help you learn all about Richmond American’s quick move-in options and the best places to live in Virginia!