8 Best Places To Retire In Virginia
Finding the best places to retire in Virginia means identifying towns that cater to the needs of older adults. Key factors include affordability, quality healthcare, safety, and a mild climate. Additionally, opportunities for recreation, cultural activities, social connections, and access to senior services are important for an ideal retirement spot. Virginia’s rich history, scenic landscapes from the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Chesapeake Bay, and proximity to both the tranquility of nature and urban amenities make it an ideal choice for retirees seeking a balanced lifestyle. Since every retiree has unique priorities, it’s essential to carefully weigh these considerations when choosing the perfect place to enjoy their golden years.
Bedford
Bedford, a charming town with a rich historical heritage and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, offers a variety of attractions. The town is also known for its reasonable cost of buying a home, which is $269,763, making it an attractive option for retirees. With 19.2% of the population over the age of 65, Bedford provides a comfortable setting for seniors. The town also boasts excellent healthcare facilities at Centra Bedford Memorial Hospital. It also provides great options for senior living, such as Cardinal Senior Living. Residents over the age of 50 can enjoy a variety of senior programs provided by The Bedford County Parks and Recreation Department, in partnership with local organizations. Activities include senior picnics, dancing, the AARP Safe Driving course., and access to leisure at the Bedford Country Club golf course.
Bedford is home to various senior-friendly attractions and activities. For history enthusiasts, the National D-Day Memorial offers a meaningful experience, while the Bedford Museum provides insight into the town's rich past. Seniors can also enjoy good dining options at Olde Liberty Station and Bedford Social Club, while Bedford Country Club golf course provides an excellent option to spend an enjoyable day.
Waynesboro
Waynesboro, in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley, offers a welcoming atmosphere, historic charm, and scenic beauty. The historic downtown area is a delightful spot for leisurely strolls, featuring charming boutiques, inviting local restaurants, and bustling galleries and museums. Seniors can also enjoy the iconic Wayne Theatre, a cultural gem that hosts a variety of musical productions, shows, and events year-round, adding to Waynesboro’s vibrant arts scene.
Waynesboro provides a variety of attractions and activities perfect for retirees. Ridgeview Park, with its scenic trails and river views, is ideal for a relaxing afternoon. For those who enjoy panoramic vistas, Rockfish Gap is a beautiful spot, and Veritas Vineyards and Winery offers a lovely venue to enjoy local wines. With 17.4% of the population aged 65 and older, Waynesboro has a friendly community for seniors to easily connect with neighbors. Owning a home is also appealing here, with a median price of $289,897, well below the Virginia state median. For specialized care, Visiting Angels offer a range of elder care services, helping retirees maintain independence, dignity, and comfort while receiving compassionate, regular assistance.
Petersburg
A historic town south of Richmond, Petersburg offers a serene environment with a rich past. With 16.9% of the population over the age of 65, it’s easy for retirees to find peers and build friendships here. The median house price in Petersburg is $239,056, making buying a home quite reasonable for retirees looking to settle down in this charming town.
The town provides plenty of engaging activities for seniors and visitors alike. History enthusiasts can explore the Petersburg National Battlefield or visit the National Museum of the Civil War Soldier to gain a deeper understanding of the area’s historical significance. Pamplin Historical Park and the US Army Women's Museum are also local highlights, while the grand Centre Hill Mansion offers tours that showcase the town’s storied past. For any medical needs, retirees can rely on Bon Secours Southside Medical Center, ensuring quality care is close at hand.
Staunton
Staunton, nestled in the scenic Shenandoah Valley, is a vibrant town with a strong sense of community. Known for its rich historical heritage, Staunton features attractions such as the Frontier Culture Museum and the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library & Museum. The town provides a variety of housing options, including affordable homes with a median price of $289,471, and top-notch assisted living facilities like Birch Gardens Assisted Living and Brightview Baldwin Park. Excellent healthcare services are available at Augusta Health, a Mayo Clinic Care Network member.
Staunton is also a cultural gem, home to the American Shakespeare Center, which performs in the Blackfriars Playhouse, a replica of Shakespeare's Blackfriars Theatre. Each August, the Staunton Music Festival hosts concerts spanning Renaissance to contemporary music. Additionally, Staunton is a hub for artists, featuring numerous galleries and art schools, including the respected Beverley Street Studio School and its Co-Art Gallery. Seniors in Staunton can also enjoy the Gypsy Hill Golf Course or explore the historic Downtown area with its charming shops and eateries. With 21.1% of its population over the age of 65, Staunton offers a welcoming environment for retirees, making it an ideal destination for those seeking an engaging, comfortable retirement.
Warsaw
Warsaw, a welcoming town in Virginia, offers a charming lifestyle for seniors, surrounded by natural beauty and rich history. The Rappahannock River Valley National Wildlife Refuge is a popular destination, providing scenic walking trails, a kayak launch, and fishing spots with picturesque views. Seniors can enjoy the refuge’s well-maintained paths, vibrant birdlife, butterflies, and flowering plants. Warsaw Town Park offers another place to relax or take a stroll, while Menokin, the historic home of Francis Lightfoot Lee, offers a glimpse into local heritage.
Housing in Warsaw is affordable for retirees, with a median home price of $235,637—considerably lower than Virginia’s state median. Medical needs are met with Family Medicine at Warsaw, ensuring quality healthcare within reach. Additionally, Visiting Angels, a leading provider of senior home care, offers a variety of services. From companion care, providing social interaction and companionship on outings, to personal care that includes meal preparation, light housekeeping, and help with grooming.
Pearisburg
Pearisburg, nestled in the scenic landscape of southwestern Virginia, is a charming town with a warm community atmosphere. Seniors have several housing options, including Old Orchard, which provides comfortable townhomes and apartments for residents aged 62 and older, with water, sewer, and sanitation included in the rent. Excellent healthcare is available at Carilion Giles Community Hospital, ensuring easy access to medical services.
Pearisburg offers an array of attractions and activities for seniors. The Giles County Senior Center, a clean and accessible facility for those aged 50 and up, hosts a variety of engaging events such as Rummikub card games, free low-impact exercise classes, and delightful summer day trips to nearby areas. For outdoor enjoyment, the New River Water Trail offers beautiful views, Angel's Rest Trailhead provides scenic hiking, and Whitt Riverbend Park is perfect for leisurely walks and picnics. With a median home price of $195,003, Pearisburg is a great place for seniors looking to settle in a picturesque, affordable community.
Lexington
Lexington, a quaint and historic town in Virginia, offers a warm, inviting atmosphere with a rich cultural heritage and a scenic backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Senior-friendly living options include Kendal at Lexington’s Webster Center and The Mayflower, both providing comfortable environments for those who prefer a supportive community with peers. For those interested in home ownership, Lexington remains accessible, with a median home price of $324,099. Carilion Rockbridge Community Hospital is available locally for any medical needs, ensuring peace of mind.
Lexington offers seniors plenty of attractions and activities to enjoy. The Jackson House Museum, VMI Museum, and University Chapel & Galleries all provide fascinating insights into local history and culture. Annual events such as the Rockbridge Beer & Wine Festival and the Nothin' Fancy Bluegrass Festival add to the town’s charm, while nature lovers can explore the beautiful landscapes of the surrounding area.
Abingdon
Abingdon, a picturesque town in southwestern Virginia, is celebrated for its rich history, lively arts community, and scenic Appalachian Mountain backdrop. The town’s historic district along Main Street features charming galleries and museums, including the Abingdon Arts Depot and Barter Theatre, as well as the renowned Martha Washington Inn. Abingdon's heritage shines at sites like the Historical Society of Washington County, Virginia, established in 1936, which holds an impressive library with over 7,000 books, 200,000 digital images, and over one million indexed records.
Abingdon hosts the popular Virginia Highlands Festival, started in 1948 by Barter Theatre founder Robert Porterfield. The festival includes over 200 events, from the Antiques & Vintage Market to an Arts & Crafts showcase. Other notable attractions include the William King Museum of Art, the Southwest Virginia Cultural Center & Marketplace, and The Crooked Road: Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail. With 23.8% of its population aged 65 or older, Abingdon offers a friendly community for retirees, and home ownership is accessible with a median price of $278,057, well below the Virginia state median.
Wrapping Up
Virginia has something to suit every retiree’s dreams, whether it’s the rich history and cultural charm of Abingdon or the modern conveniences and vibrant community of Petersburg. With a variety of safe, welcoming towns and scenic spots, each offering a unique lifestyle, Virginia is ready to help you craft your ideal retirement. Whether you’re drawn to the arts, outdoor adventures, or simply looking for a friendly neighborhood to call home, Virginia’s diverse towns are sure to bring you closer to the retirement life you’ve envisioned.
