10 Best Places To Retire In Virginia
Virginia. With a history dating back to 1607 and the site of the first English settlement, it carries quite a reputation. In 2024 alone, Virginia welcomed over 44.7 million overnight visitors. The state known affectionately as “A Place for Lovers” is also a place for retirees. One in five Virginia residents is over 60. Many people think about destinations such as Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, or Norfolk as prime real estate. But these are far from being the only options for viable places to live. If you are thinking about retiring in “The Cavalier State”, consider these towns.
Abingdon
Abingdon is a haven for retirees who appreciate history, the fine arts, and outdoor beauty. The town’s Barter Theatre, America’s longest-running professional theater, brings Broadway-caliber performances to a small-town setting. The Virginia Creeper Trail, a 34-mile multi-use trail stretching 34 miles through the countryside, is perfect for leisurely walks or bike rides. Retirees can also explore the William King Museum of Art or enjoy seasonal farmers' markets and community events in the historic downtown. Abingdon offers retirees culture and comfort with its mild climate, friendly residents, and quality healthcare.
Lexington
Lexington charms retirees with its history, intellect, and stunning mountain scenery. This college town is home to both Washington and Lee University and the Virginia Military Institute, which bring lectures, concerts, and sporting events that are open to the public. The downtown area is lined with boutiques, bookshops, and cozy cafes, all within walking distance of the town’s leafy streets. History buffs can explore the Stonewall Jackson House or tour local Civil War sites. With a strong sense of community and an active cultural calendar, Lexington offers a stimulating yet peaceful retirement destination.
Staunton
Staunton’s historic architecture and lively arts scene make it a standout choice for retirees seeking immersive experiences in history and the performing arts. The town is home to the American Shakespeare Center’s Blackfriars Playhouse, where residents enjoy live performances in a replica of Shakespeare’s original indoor theater. The Frontier Culture Museum of Virginia offers an up-close look into early American life with hands-on activities, while Gypsy Hill Park provides ample space for picnics, strolls, and outdoor concerts. Staunton’s walkable downtown, friendly atmosphere, and thriving arts community make it a perfect fit for retirees who value culture and connection.
Bedford
Located between the Blue Ridge Mountains and Smith Mountain Lake, the town of Bedford offers retirees mountain landscapes out of a Bob Ross painting with a warm, small-town spirit to match. The National D-Day Memorial is a centerpiece of local pride and history, honoring the town’s World War II heroes. Smith Mountain Lake provides endless opportunities for boating, fishing, and lakeside relaxation, while nearby Peaks of Otter offers hiking trails with panoramic views. Bedford’s supportive community, active civic organizations, and easy access to Lynchburg and Roanoke make it a peaceful yet well-connected place to spend retirement.
Christiansburg
Christiansburg sits in the heart of Virginia’s New River Valley, giving retirees both natural beauty and modern conveniences. Retirees can enjoy the town’s many parks, greenways, and the popular Huckleberry Trail, which links Christiansburg to nearby Blacksburg. The area also hosts cultural and sporting events through Virginia Tech, bringing world-class entertainment close to home. Art and history appreciators can also enjoy the history and rotating art exhibits at the Montgomery Museum of Art and History. With several fitness centers, golf courses, and a community recreation center, staying active in Christiansburg is easy. Christiansburg is a great choice for retirees who enjoy a balance of leisure and liveliness.
Danville
Danville is a revitalized riverside town where historic architecture meets natural wonder. The Dan River runs through town, and its Riverwalk Trail offers a peaceful retreat for walkers and cyclists. The community has embraced its cultural roots with the Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History, featuring the artistic and historical achievements of the region's citizens. The Danville Science Center provides more opportunities for intellectual engagement, and the beautifully preserved Danville Millionaires’ Row mansions showcase the crowning jewels of Victorian and Edwardian architecture in the South. Danville provides affordable living, low traffic, and plenty of green space for retirees who want to spend more time connecting with nature and fellow residents in a town that makes one feel at home.
Martinsville
Martinsville is a charming town where retirees can enjoy both quiet living and a broad range of engaging activities. The Virginia Museum of Natural History and Piedmont Center for the Arts bring education and creativity to the community. Outdoor enthusiasts appreciate the Smith River Trail System for hiking, cycling, and birdwatching. The town is also known for the Martinsville Speedway, which hosts NASCAR races and community events. Martinsville’s warm residents and active civic organizations make it easy for newcomers to find social circles and volunteer opportunities, creating a close-knit and fulfilling retirement environment.
Waynesboro
Waynesboro sits between the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Shenandoah Valley and offers retirees endless access to outdoor adventures. The Appalachian Trail is a couple of hours out from Waynesboro, and Shenandoah National Park is just minutes away. The South River Greenway provides eye-pleasing paths for daily walks. The downtown area is rich in local art, highlighted by the P. Buckley Moss Gallery and the restored Wayne Theatre, which hosts live performances and film screenings. Waynesboro’s community is known for its welcoming spirit, vibrant festivals, and love of the outdoors, making it a natural fit for active, nature-loving retirees.
Radford
Radford mixes the easygoing speed of small-town living with a youthful energy thanks to Radford University. The town sits along the New River, where retirees can kayak, fish, or enjoy picnics at Bisset Park. The Glencoe Mansion Museum and Gallery provides a glimpse into local history dating back to the Civil War and features exhibits of art and works of contemporary Appalachian artists from around the New River Valley and Southwest Virginia. The nearby Claytor Lake State Park offers boating and fishing opportunities. The university brings cultural events, continuing education opportunities, and access to modern amenities. For retirees who want all the benefits of having a university close by while having ample quiet spaces and a reasonable cost of living, Radford delivers this kind of balance.
South Boston
South Boston offers a neighborly atmosphere where retirees can enjoy the slower pace characteristic of small-town Southern life. The Prizery, a beautifully restored tobacco warehouse, now serves as an arts and cultural center with live performances and exhibits. Outdoor lovers can explore Staunton River State Park nearby, known for kayaking, hiking, and some of Virginia’s best stargazing. The town’s walkable downtown features antique shops, locally owned cafes, and regular community festivals like the annual Harvest Festival. South Boston’s warm hospitality, plentiful natural spaces, and thriving arts community make it a compelling place to call home.
Retirement should be a time to reap the fruit of your labor. It should also be a time to get around to doing things you may have previously put off due to career or family obligations. So, maybe it is time to hike through the Shenandoah Valley, or look at the next meteor shower at Staunton River State Park, or spend hours absorbing the exhibits in the William King Museum of Art. Or, find a new adventure altogether. Whatever that next adventure may be, chances are, Virginia has a place for it, and more importantly, a place for you.
