Are you nearing retirement age and trying to decide where to call home? If so, you may be wondering which is the best place to retire in Virginia.
There are many factors to consider when making this decision, including the cost of living, climate, healthcare options, and more. In this blog post, we will outline the best places to retire in Virginia based on these criteria and help make your decision a little bit easier!
1. Fairfax County
Fairfax County may be the ideal area to retire if you want to live in the great outdoors. Many national parks are located in the area, including Great Falls National Park and Mason Neck National Wildlife Refuge, the nation’s first bald eagle sanctuary. The Smithsonian Air and Space Museum is certainly worth a visit.
You’d also have access to more than 300 miles of hiking trails to be fit. The Fairfax County Park Authority, in reality, manages almost 400 parks on more than 20,000 acres. Some have operating farms and nature preserves. However, nature isn’t Fairfax’s only asset. There are also around 200 regional retail malls in the area.
Virginia’s retirement system is one of the world’s top 50 public or private pension plans. Because Virginia is a retiree-friendly state, you should invest in tax-advantaged savings vehicles such as a 401(k) or individual retirement account (IRA). These might be useful additions to a comprehensive retirement strategy, especially if you have a pension.
Several Fairfax entertainment establishments, including an ice rink and Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts, are available to spend your hard-earned money. You may also bring the grandchildren, as there are over 800 playgrounds.
With more than 13 medical centers per 1,000 residents, Fairfax is also a health-conscious option.
2. Abingdon
If you’re looking for a retirement destination that’s full of culture and history, Abingdon is definitely worth considering. It’s possible that it’s even one of the greatest destinations for creatives.
The town offers a number of unique events throughout the year, including the Virginia Highlands Festival, which dates back to the 1980s. When you’re not marching, you may enjoy the various cycling and hiking paths that Abingdon has to offer. Several fiddlers conventions are held in the town. You may also go horseback riding or trek the Virginia Creeper Trail and the Appalachian Trail.
Since it’s a small town, the cost of living is relatively low and you’ll have your pick of places to live. You may purchase a home for as little as $100,000 or less. The median property taxes in Virginia are also some of the lowest in the country. Abingdon also has its own regional airport, and you’re only a short drive from larger airports in Knoxville, Tennessee, and Charlotte, North Carolina.
3. Falls Church
Falls Church is a great option for those who want to be close to the action of Washington, D.C., but don’t necessarily want to live in the city. It’s also one of the most walkable and bikeable cities in Virginia.
You’d also get access to over 55 retirement communities and premium golf courses. According to Niche.com, the median rent is $1,867 per month. Research also says that 42% of inhabitants rent their houses while 58% buy them. As a retiree, you may also be eligible for a number of discounts, including discounted rates on public transportation.
Falls Church has an urban vibe. As a result, it’s ideal for someone who enjoys a lively city lifestyle. You can visit the National Gallery of Art or take a tour of the U.S. Capitol. If you’re a fan of the arts, you’ll be happy to know that the city is home to several theaters and performing arts centers. There are also many restaurants and cafes to choose from.
4. Bedford
If you’re looking for a small town with a lot of charm, Bedford is worth considering. The town has a rich history dating back to the Revolutionary War.
Bedford is also home to a number of historical organizations and museums. When you’re not admiring history, there are enormous swaths of wildlife to discover. It even has attractions such as Thomas Jefferson’s Summer House.
Bedford is home to more national parks than many other cities. The Peaks of Otter, along the Appalachian Trail, are also worth exploring. This popular alpine getaway is surrounded by more than 6,900 acres of the national park and about 21,000 acres of national forest. Bedford has approximately three medical facilities per 1,000 people in case you get hurt along the road.
5. Williamsburg
Williamsburg is an excellent spot to keep fit in retirement. In fact, it obtained a high grade for healthcare from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Virginia is a tax-friendly state in general. Opening a health savings account is one method to take advantage of the state’s tax benefits as well as Williamsburg’s extensive healthcare options (HSA).
If you use your earnings or withdrawals for eligible health costs, the federal government will not tax them. You may also keep healthy by taking advantage of Williamsburg’s numerous workout activities. William & Mary, one of the country’s oldest colleges, is also located here. Seniors are welcome to audit classes for free.
With its temperate climate, you can enjoy the outdoors all year long by exploring the College of William & Mary’s Botanical Gardens or take a walk through one of the many historic sites. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes to keep you entertained.
The best places to retire in Virginia offer a wide range of activities and amenities for retirees. From small towns with a lot of charm to cities with an urban vibe, there’s something for everyone. Consider what’s important to you in retirement and choose the location that best suits your needs. With its low cost of living and tax benefits, Virginia is a great state to retire in. And, with so many beautiful places to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect spot to call home.
Do you have any other recommendations for the best places to retire in Virginia? Let us know!
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