Living in Virginia Beach: Get To Know “The Resort City”

What are the perks of living in Virginia Beach (also known as “The Resort City”)? For starters, you’ll get the perfect combination of classic coastal living and bustling urban life. Then there’s the fabulous dining scene (with all the seafood you could want!). And, of course, there are plenty of things to do in Virginia Beach, including visiting a variety of cultural attractions and joining in on beachfront activities (naturally). Think The Resort City is calling your name? Read on for more info about what it’s like living there.

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Virginia Beach at a Glance

• Virginia Beach is situated on the mouth of Chesapeake Bay in Southeastern Virginia.
• It’s the largest city in the state, with 245 square miles of land and a population of more than 459,000 residents. 
• Virginia Beach is thought of as one of the most affordable beach towns in the country. 
• The median age of Virginia Beach residents is 38.2 years old. 
• Celebrities like Gabby Douglas and Pharrell Williams have called Virginia Beach home.

18 Things to Know About Living in Virginia Beach

Is Virginia Beach a good place to live? We think so! Between the beachfront, local parks, and vibrant cultural atmosphere, there’s a lot to love about living in Virginia Beach. Here’s what we think you should know before you go.

The cost of living in Virginia Beach is just slightly higher than the state average.

1. The Cost of Living in Virginia Beach Isn’t Far From the National Average.

With a score of 104.8, the cost of living in Virginia Beach is just slightly higher than the state average and nearly 5 percent higher than the national index of 100. 

What is a livable salary in Virginia Beach? A family of four with two children and two working adults living in Virginia Beach should expect to make an annual income of at least $113,500 before taxes to maintain a living wage. A couple without children should expect to make at least $65,000 before taxes annually, while a person living alone in Virginia Beach should make an annual income of at least $50,000 before taxes. 

Q: Is it expensive to live in Virginia Beach? A: VA Beach’s cost of living might be higher than other parts of the state and country, but it’s cheap for beachfront living — especially when compared to other coastal areas like Miami and San Diego.

2. Living in Virginia Beach Has Pros and Cons.

Just like any city, there are pros and cons of daily living in Virginia Beach. Here are a few to help you decide if it’s the right fit for you.

Pro: You Can Take Day Trips to Other Major Cities.

Like taking quick trips? The Virginia Beach area is easily accessible to major cities like Washington, D.C.; Richmond; and Norfolk. You also have the railroads that connect the Northeast at your fingertips, making weekend trips to the Big Apple a great option.

Pro: You Can Feel Safe in Your Community.

Is Virginia Beach a safe place to live? Yes, Virginia Beach is safer than 27 percent of U.S. cities. It may not seem that impressive, but it is, especially compared to the nearby metros of Norfolk and Richmond, which are only safer than two and six percent of other U.S. cities, respectively. The residents of Virginia Beach also have numerous neighborhood watch programs in place. 

Pro: Local Beaches Are Havens for Dogs.

Pet owners can feel free to take their canine friends for a swim or a walk to enjoy one of the area’s several dog-friendly beaches. Hotspots include Sandbridge Little Island Fishing Pier and First Landing State Park. 

Con: There’s an Abundance of Tourist Crowds.

The summer season is a popular time of year for tourists to visit, and the influx is one of the not-so-fabulous things about living in Virginia Beach. Although it’s a great economic boost for the area, it can be hard to deal with the additional traffic and wait times at the restaurants, attractions, and beaches.

Con: Extreme Weather Is a Possibility.

VA Beach has a moderate climate most of the time, but remember that you’re choosing a coastal city. The area has been hit by some powerful storms in the past and experienced significant damage. Flooding is always a risk here, and if a hurricane hits, you’re more susceptible to storm surge.

Con: Allergies and Asthma May Become an Issue for You.

Those who suffer from allergies may encounter some difficulties in Virginia Beach. The parks and coastal areas are home to various plants and trees that can trigger an allergic reaction, and the high humidity levels can also create problems for people who struggle with asthma.

Oceanfront residents live right along the water with close access to everything VA Beach has to offer, including Neptune’s Park (pictured above) and the Virginia Beach Boardwalk.
(Source: Neptune’s Park via Facebook)

Q: Is Virginia Beach a good area to live in? A: Yes, with the beachfront, local parks, solid job market, and vibrant cultural atmosphere, there’s a lot to love about living in Virginia Beach.

7. You Can Enjoy Diverse Dining Options Throughout the Area.

Virginia Beach offers plenty of restaurants and bars that allow guests to enjoy panoramic views of the beach while chowing down on top-notch cuisines. Chick's Oyster Bar, for example, has been a popular waterfront establishment since 1998. It features live music, and the menu includes everything from crabby burgers to shrimp and tacos. Simple Eats, another popular pick, is where you’ll want to go when you're in the mood for some great brunch options, such as blackened shrimp and grits.

8. Public Transportation Is Limited in Virginia Beach.

People who live in Virginia Beach face the challenge of finding reliable public transportation, and the city may not be the best place to live for those who prefer walking either. The city's transit score of 21 and walk score of 33 indicate that, although there is a transit system and you can get around by foot, there’s a heavy reliance on personal vehicles. Access to certain parts of the city, as well as employment centers and top attractions, can be difficult for those who don't have cars.

Virginia Beach has a robust public school system that is regarded as one of the best in the state.
(Source: VBSchools via Facebook)

9. You Can Rely On Quality Education — From Public Schools to College.

Virginia Beach has a robust public school system that is regarded as one of the best in the state. Top-rated schools include Ocean Lakes High School and Old Donation School. There are also several top-notch higher-education institutions you can choose from, including Tidewater Community College and Regent University. The college of William & Mary is also just an hour away, and it’s the second-oldest institution in the entire nation. 

10. There’s a Beach That’s Perfect for You.

There are two main beaches in the area: The Virginia Beach Oceanfront and Sandbridge. Oceanfront is a bustling area that's famous for its vibrant and welcoming atmosphere, while Sandbridge is a quieter beach that's located south of the resort area. Those who flock to Sandbridge tend to enjoy less-crowded shores with plenty of picturesque beauty to admire all around. 

Q: What is so great about Virginia Beach? A: While the city has a lot to offer, the beaches are one of the major highlights beloved by the local residents.

11. The Area Has a Vast History.

The area was established in the late 1800s as a seaside resort, but it was originally the site of the first English settlers in 1607. Today, the local First Landing State Park is one of the city's most prominent historical sites, and visitors can enjoy a variety of activities there, including swimming, camping, and even engaging with the history of the indigenous tribes.

You can also take a guided tour of the Cape Henry Lighthouse, which was the first federally funded project in the country. And you can learn about how nautical elements have shaped the area's history by visiting the Surf & Rescue Museum, featuring a variety of maritime exhibits.

12. The Military Also Plays a Large Role.

Numerous facilities and bases have contributed to the military atmosphere in Virginia Beach for decades. The Military Aviation Museum, for example, has a large collection of aircraft from both World War I and II, which gives residents a glimpse into crucial events that took place within our nation's history. Want to experience the aircraft in flight? Sign up for a warbird ride around the city or buy tickets to the Oceana Air Show, which takes place at the nearby Navy Air Station Oceana.

Visit False Cape State Park to explore over 15 miles of trails.
(Source: False Cape State Park via Facebook)

13. You Can Easily Make a Day of Biking.

The city has over 300 miles of bike paths for residents to utilize. False Cape State Park, for instance, has over 15 miles of trails alone. If you’re looking for something with a little flair, try one of the many self-guided bike tours available in the area — like the Bikes, Brews & Art Tour or the Bikes, Brews & History Tour.

14. You Won’t Want To Miss Out On the Family-Friendly Attraction.

There are plenty of things for families to do in Virginia Beach, in particular. For example, you can explore an aerial adventure park or learn about the world beneath the sea with a close look at marine life at the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center. The whole family can also enjoy getting out on the water at Ocean Breeze Water Park — with access to the rafts and fun along the Adventure River — or seeing animals like orangutans, bears, and emus at the Virginia Zoo.

15. The Virginia Beach Boardwalk Is a Can’t-Miss.

There are so many things to do when you take a stroll along the Virginia Beach Boardwalk — including visiting museums, art galleries, restaurants, and shops — that it's hard to choose just one activity to do. Craving a bit of relaxation with great views? Spend a day fishing at the famous Virginia Beach Fishing Pier. Looking for something a bit more adrenaline-filled? Try a go-kart ride or take a ride on the ferris wheel at the Atlantic Fun Park.

16. The Housing and Rental Market Are Booming.

Whether you’re looking for a big waterfront home or a small townhome, you can find lots of options when you’re searching for a home in Virginia Beach. While the housing market is quite competitive, the average home price of around $401,000 is much more affordable than other coastal cities — including San Diego, where the average home price sits at over $1 million. Looking to rent instead? The average rent in VA Beach is around $1,700 for a one-bedroom apartment.

17. You Can’t Go Wrong With Attending a Local Festival.

Plenty of events take place during the summer season, of course, but during the winter months, you can spread some holiday cheer with the Holiday Parade at the Beach, which features floats, fire trucks, balloons, and a lot of excitement! You can also see a variety of live animals at the Winter Wildlife Festival or take part in a birding challenge. And you definitely don’t want to miss watching the talented artists compete in the sand sculpting competition at the Neptune Festival.

18. Residents Can Get Quality Healthcare in Virginia Beach.

One of the largest providers of healthcare services in the region is Sentara Healthcare. It has two hospitals and one outpatient campus, as well as the Sentara Heart and Vascular Center. For many years, U.S. News & World Report has named Sentara Norfolk General, in particular, one of the region's best hospitals, and it has received awards for its specialties in various medical fields like neurosurgery and thoracic surgeries. Sentara Norfolk is also a teaching hospital. 

With a PODS portable moving container, you can easily pack and load your things on your own schedule right in your driveway.

Move to Virginia Beach With PODS.

Deciding to relocate to Virginia Beach and enjoy all that it has to offer may not be a difficult choice, but actually moving and arranging all your belongings can be the challenging part. Luckily, with a PODS portable moving container, you can easily pack and load your things on your own schedule, or you can get in touch with local packing and loading services if you need the additional help. When you’re ready to make the move, you can have PODS deliver the container to your new home or keep it in a secure PODS Storage Center. In a nutshell, with PODS, you call the shots.