Virginia's 10 Best Retirement Towns Ranked

Between the Atlantic coastal plain and the Appalachian plateau, Virginia is endowed with beautiful little towns where fresh retirees can put down roots. Here, they can begin a new chapter with friendly communities demonstrating trademark Southern hospitality, learn their unique histories, and be part of their vibrant cultures. These are conveniently shielded from the urban bustle, providing a slower pace of life for senior citizens to thrive. However, this does not alienate them from vital health and social amenities available in the city.

With all the hallmarks of a perfect retirement pad, pensioners need not search far or wide when settling down. Whether you plan to spend the rest of your sunset years in relaxed rural hamlets like Buena Vista or historic Civil War settlements like Strasburg, here are Virginia's 10 best retirement towns.

Bridgewater

Despite its small size, Bridgewater has a variety of attractions that keep residents entertained regardless of their preferences. It houses a handful of natural spaces that encourage outdoor recreation, including Wildwood Park. This serene oasis lies on the banks of the North River and features lush expanses of quiet picnic areas. The Bridgewater Historical Society Museum brings new residents up to speed with the community's heritage. It has a collection of books, articles, stories, newspapers, and other memorabilia documenting past events.

The Bridgewater Retirement Community makes life much more comfortable for the elderly by providing crucial independent living facilities, allowing them to have fulfilling lives. Finally, the median home price in Bridgewater is $352,300, lower than the state average.

West Point

West Point, a small town near Richmond, is known for its picturesque river views and serene natural surroundings, with plenty of outdoor opportunities. Seniors can keep their bodies on the move with walks, jogs, or runs along the West Point River Walk Trail. This quarter-mile route runs along the Mattaponi River and features two observation platforms if you are interested in the views. Those new to the town can learn about its backstory at the Historical Society of West Point. This resourceful venue harbors over 2,000 exhibits documenting the social, cultural, and military history of West Point.

West Point has an upbeat atmosphere that shows during the many festivals it holds throughout the year. Crab Carnival is one of the most colorful events in the community, drawing thousands of attendees from the East for a fun day marked by delicious seafood treats. Finally, buying a home in West Point costs an average of $316,000.

Amherst

Only an hour from Charlottesville, this tiny village in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains is steeped in railway heritage and boasts a share of vineyards reflecting its lively wine scene. Newcomers can explore Amherst's past at the Amherst County Museum and Historical Society, which collects and preserves resources documenting its history, including lumbering and mining heydays. The modest population accords seniors the freedom to explore the open spaces, which they can do with rounds of golf at Winton Farm. This lovely 18-hole property stands out for its breathtaking panoramas of the Blue Ridge Mountain peaks.

Amherst's reputation as a wine lover's hub is sealed during the annual Labor Day Music & Wine Festival. This well-attended festival allows residents and visitors to mingle over sweet local wines while being entertained by revered musical acts. Finally, the median housing price here is $284,900.

Staunton

Unlike most college towns, Staunton has a laid-back feel that allows senior citizens to coexist peacefully alongside a majority of youthful residents. The town is often associated with the childhood home of President Woodrow Wilson. Retirees can enjoy exploring the president's legacy at the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library and Museum. Here, you can see his birthplace and browse various documents and memorabilia from his life and times. Gypsy Hill Park is the ultimate escape for outdoor recreation in Staunton. It sprawls over 200 acres and offers opportunities for swimmers, hikers, anglers, and picnickers.

Residents frequently converge inside the American Shakespeare's Blackfriars Playhouse to watch classic plays in an intimate indoor venue. The elderly can find assisted living help at AVIVA Baldwin Park, while those thinking of investing in a home can set aside around $325,000 for the acquisition.

Buena Vista

Buena Vista has a rich natural setting in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, flanked by majestic views and a relaxed rural atmosphere. It offers several outdoor escapes for seniors who embrace an active lifestyle, led by Glen Maury Park. This 315-acre nature area serves as the local recreation hub and accommodates everything from hiking and mountain biking to camping. Those interested in a cultural lesson can stop by Art on Magnolia to browse a thought-provoking art collection. The quaint venue showcases original paintings by artists from Virginia and around the world.

Buena Vista hosts a delightful Visitors Center that gets newcomers acclimatized to their new home. This resourceful location shares vital information regarding the history, culture, attractions, and overall state of the community. Meanwhile, retirees looking to acquire a home can expect to pay around $259,000 for a decent property.

Abingdon

This tight-knit community in Washington County has a rich art and culture landscape and lovely nature areas. Several art centers dot the downtown region, inviting seniors for an eye-opening cultural lesson. Prominent among these is Barter Theatre, a 1930s venue serving as the local hub for performance art. It treats audiences to musicals, plays, and dances. Abdingdon's welcoming attitude towards strangers shows during the Abingdon Farmers Market, where a modest gathering of local farmers sells everything from fresh farm produce and craft beers to handmade souvenirs.

Meanwhile, residents can head to Munchkin Park to escape the crowds and revel in a chill atmosphere. Also, those feeling unwell can readily access quality medical care at the Johnston Memorial Hospital. When considering investing in a home, remember that the local housing average is $349,000.

Strasburg

Strasburg offers a delightful blend of rich historical heritage and a strong cultural base, making for one of Virginia's 10 best retirement towns. At the Strasburg Museum, guests can explore the community's evolution since its establishment in the 19th century. Its vast collection of artifacts ranges from Civil War memorabilia and Indian artifacts to colonial farms and old buildings. Residents receive a sustained supply of fresh, sweet-tasting local wines from Star in the Valley Winery. While enjoying refreshing wines at the site, you can dwell in the picturesque views of the lush Shenandoah Valley.

Strasburg's Civil War history is well-preserved at Hupp's Hill Historical Park. The area harbors archaeological gems related to the Battle of Cedar Creek. Seniors can benefit from helpful programs at different assisted living centers in town, including Cambridge Landing Memory Care. Lastly, the median home cost of $348,500 is below the United States average.

Radford

Popularly known as "New River City," Radford is an admirable town along the New River Valley with abundant recreation opportunities to keep senior citizens active. Its rich park system includes nature spaces like Bisset Park, which offers 57 acres of riverfront space with picnic shelters, paved nature trails, and breathtaking water views. Glencoe Museum is an excellent stop for pensioners with a penchant for retro experiences. The beautiful Victorian mansion takes guests back to the 19th century with its elaborate display of period furnishings in the former home of Confederate Brigadier General Gabriel Wharton.

Local movie enthusiasts get their dose of Silver Screen magic at the Radford Theatre. This historic venue dates back to 1935 and screens first-run Hollywood productions in a family-friendly setting at affordable prices. The town also has plenty of assisted living facilities, including Commonwealth Senior Living at Radford. Lastly, homes in the town cost an average of $268,700.

Warsaw

Warsaw, a town north of Norfolk, has a relaxed rural atmosphere that pairs with mild weather around the year to guarantee retirees a comfortable lifestyle. Senior citizens here stay active with fun walks on the Tom Rhodes Tree Carving Trail. This unique wooded pathway stands out for the dozens of characters that have been carved into trees lining the route, making for a wonderful outdoor experience. The Warsaw Town Park presents a pleasant space where residents can laze around with friends or family. It offers a fair share of public amenities, from a gazebo and playground area to picnic tables.

Warsaw is also home to Menokin, an 18th-century plantation owned by Francis Lightfoot Lee, one of the founding fathers of the United States who signed the Declaration of Independence. The site and its relics provide a rare look into the early time periods. A decent home in Warsaw costs around $339,900.

Pearisburg

Pearisburg's popularity as an ideal retirement destination stems from its affordable cost of living and wealth of outdoor adventures. The town is known for being hiker-friendly, a credit to the 57-mile New River Trail State Park. This linear park allows bikers, hikers, anglers, and rivertubers to immerse in the great outdoors. Every June, the community hosts the Pearisburg Festival at the Park, bringing together families with an array of fun activities, including carnival rides, craft exhibitions, live music, and more.

Seniors have guaranteed access to sweet local wines to fuel their mellow-paced journey into the golden years. These are readily available at JBR Vineyard, which produces two grape wine varieties and sources ingredients locally. Also, the area's median home cost is only $279,500.

Final Thought

Whether a history lover, outdoor adventurer, or culture vulture, Virginia's 10 best retirement towns provide an option for everyone. From the picturesque natural setting in Radford to the rich cultural scene in Abingdon, retirees have access to all the ingredients needed to maintain an active lifestyle amidst a vibrant, welcoming community, resulting in a high quality of life. Settling down in any of the highlighted little towns is an opportunity to live out your sunset years as you envisioned them.