Virginia Beach, VABest Places To Live in the U.S. in 2023
The coast is calling in Virginia Beach. Sun-soaked shorelines, a welcoming coastal lifestyle and abundant outdoor activities contribute to Virginia Beach’s reputation as a city where relaxation meets excitement, all while maintaining a low cost of living.
Virginia Beach, VA, Is One of the Best Cities To Live in America
Thousands flock to Virginia Beach, VA, each year to enjoy its beaches, but the more than 450,000 residents who call this coastal area home get VIP access to the area’s amenities year-round, from a colorful arts district to a culinary scene with festivals like a springtime she-crab soup classic.
Excellent health care is one of many reasons Virginia Beach is one of the best places to live in the U.S. Sentara Health Care operates top-ranked hospitals in the region. Those who move here can stretch their dollars further, too, as the cost of living in Virginia Beach clocks in lower than it does in other Mid-Atlantic and Northeastern cities. In addition, good schools, a highly educated workforce and an economy powered by a variety of diverse industries add to the quality of life.
Residents have much to explore in Virginia Beach, too. The area has seven unique districts, including Oceanfront, where you’ll get your fill of snow cones, spot street performers and catch some waves. But for a quieter day on the water, locals love to slip away to Sandbridge, where there are sand dunes, sea oats and a gorgeous boardwalk. Creatives are helping shape The ViBe Creative District, a lively arts and culture district bursting with color from the murals to the art-filled parking lots. Even utility boxes have been morphed into masterpieces!
Virginia Beach, VA Quality of Life LivScore
Virginia Beach, VA Top Categories
Economy
Transportation
Health
Virginia Beach ranks highest for economy, transportation and health.
Weather and Outdoor Activities in Virginia Beach, VA
Beach season is in full effect from Memorial Day to Labor Day when daily highs reach the 70s and 80s. Winters are cold, but that doesn’t stop locals from doing a Polar Plunge to support Special Olympic athletes. The average highs and lows are 85°F and 69°F (summer) and 52°F and 34°F (winter).
The average annual snowfall in Virginia Beach is relatively low at roughly 5 inches per year.
The average annual rainfall in Virginia Beach is 45 inches. Most of the rainfall in Virginia Beach occurs during the summer months, with August being the wettest.
Virginia Beach averages 217 sunny days a year.
Go on a guided dolphin-spotting tour via a kayak with Go Kayak.
Virginia Beach Weather
217 days
Average Annual Sun
45 inches
Average Annual Rain
5 inches
Average Annual Snow
Things To Do in Virginia Beach, VA
Become a regular at the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art, which offers new exhibitions every few months. Or create your own tour. From world-class installations to colorful creations, numerous pieces of outdoor art are waiting to be explored. For example, “Seashore Cathedral” is a series of murals on the underpass columns of Rudee Walkway. Be sure to grab some shots for Insta.
Climb and zipline in the treetop trails at The Adventure Park at Virginia Aquarium.
Embark on the Blue Pete’s Dinner Tour, which includes an out-and-back kayak trip before dinner at the waterfront restaurant in Pungo.
Burgers, seafood, beers and cocktails are calling your name at South Beach Grill.
The Local and State Economy in Virginia Beach, VA
Tourism and hospitality, military and real estate are among the largest industries in Virginia Beach. Virginia Beach is home to several military installations, including Naval Air Station Oceana and Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story, making the military a significant employer.
In 2023, the sales tax rate in Virginia Beach is 6%. Virginia Beach has one of the country’s lowest combined state and local sales tax rates.
Yes, Virginia has a state income tax.
Virginia Beach residents have access to several top-notch hospitals and providers at Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital, one of the region’s highest-ranking hospitals. Additionally, the Virginia Beach-Norfolk-Newport News area has a variety of providers in different specialties.
There are several colleges and universities in Virginia Beach, VA, including Regent University, Virginia Wesleyan University, South University-Virginia Beach, Bryant & Stratton College, and The Art Institute of Virginia Beach.
Quick Facts About Virginia Beach, VA
- Median Household Income
- $82,163
- Median Home Value
- $340,344
- Average State Property Tax
- $2,420
- Total Population
- 458,883
- Median Rent/Mo.
- $1,263
- Average Commute
- 20.98 minutes
Excellent health care, good schools and a diverse economy make Virginia Beach one of the best places to live in the U.S. Learn more about what makes Virginia Beach special and plan a trip to enjoy its hidden gem beaches. Another moving resource: The Ultimate Guide To Finding Your Best Place To Live.
