If you desire a peaceful, historic, and welcoming community for retirement, Williamsburg, Virginia, could be the ideal destination. Whether you’ve heard about its charming Colonial past or modern amenities, this city is beautifully suited for retirees seeking active, fulfilling lifestyles. And even if moving to Williamsburg, VA isn’t on your radar, you might change your mind after reading this guide.
Overview of Williamsburg, Virginia
Williamsburg blends history, affordability, and outdoor activities. Attractions like Colonial Williamsburg and the Governor’s Palace immerse residents in colonial charm. Also, the cost of living is reasonable, with diverse housing options. Nature lovers enjoy nearby parks and scenic drives, while Richmond and Norfolk offer urban conveniences within reach. However, a quieter social scene, tourist crowds, and minimal public transportation may pose challenges for some retirees.
Why Do People Retire in Williamsburg?
Williamsburg’s appeal as a retirement destination goes beyond its historical significance. With a slower pace of life, a rich cultural scene, and a favorable climate, it offers a low-key, rewarding lifestyle. Many are drawn to Williamsburg for its proximity to beaches, parks, and outdoor activities. Its combination of history, recreational opportunities, and practical benefits like taxes and health care makes it an ideal place to settle down.
Retiring in Williamsburg: Pros and Cons
Pros
- Rich History and Culture – Colonial Williamsburg immerses history lovers in America’s past. Sites like the Governor’s Palace and lively reenactments bring colonial history to life. Retirees explore museums, historic buildings, and cultural events, experiencing the charm and richness of early American history.
- Affordable Living – Despite its historic appeal, Williamsburg remains affordable compared to other retirement spots in Virginia. Housing options range from classic homes to newer developments in active adult communities.
- Access to Outdoor Activities – Williamsburg’s natural beauty and parklands make it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Active adults explore hiking trails, go birdwatching, or take scenic drives on Colonial Parkway.
- Close to Major Cities – Although Williamsburg is quiet and quaint, it’s conveniently close to Richmond and Norfolk. You can enjoy a peaceful lifestyle close to bigger-city attractions.
Cons
- Limited Health Care Options – Although Williamsburg has hospitals and medical practices, specialized care often requires a trip to Norfolk, about 45 minutes away.
- Quiet Social Scene – Williamsburg’s small-town charm may feel too calm for some retirees who seek livelier social scenes. The town offers many activities, but those accustomed to big-city vibrancy may find the pace here more relaxed.
- Tourist Influx – While Williamsburg’s historic appeal draws visitors, it can lead to crowded streets and longer waits at popular spots, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Limited Public Transportation – Williamsburg’s public transit is limited, which may be challenging for retirees who don’t drive. Still, the town is walkable in many areas.
Williamsburg Climate
Before moving to Williamsburg, VA, it’s important to consider the climate and weather conditions throughout the year. Spring and fall are especially beautiful here, with mild temperatures and colorful foliage. Summers tend to be hot and humid, with temperatures reaching into the 80s and 90s. Winters are generally cold but rarely see significant snowfall.
Average Temperatures
- Summer (June-August): 80°F to 90°F
- Fall (September-November): 60°F to 70°F
- Winter (December-February): 40°F to 50°F with occasional cold snaps
- Spring (March-May): 60°F to 70°F
Common Weather Conditions
- Occasional thunderstorms in the summer months
- Mild but rainy winters
- High humidity during the summer makes it feel warmer than it is
Popular Outdoor Activities for Active Adults
Retirees moving to Williamsburg, VA, are drawn to the area’s abundant outdoor activities. Kayaking enthusiasts can explore the serene waters of the James and York Rivers, where picturesque views and opportunities to spot local wildlife abound. For those who love to hike or simply enjoy being immersed in nature, the area is also home to several state parks, such as York River State Park and Waller Mill Park, offering well-maintained trails surrounded by scenic woodlands.
Golfing is another favorite pastime, with Williamsburg boasting several championship golf courses, including the renowned Golden Horseshoe Golf Club and Kingsmill Resort. Whether on the water, in the woods, or on the greens, Williamsburg provides countless opportunities for an active and fulfilling lifestyle.
Williamsburg Taxes
State Income Taxes
Virginia has a progressive income tax, with rates ranging from 2% to 5.75%. However, there are tax exemptions for retirees. For instance, retirement income from government pensions, military pensions, and Social Security is exempt from state taxes up to a certain amount.
Sales Taxes
The sales tax rate in Williamsburg is 5.3%, which is fairly standard for Virginia. However, essential items such as groceries and prescription medications are exempt.
Property Taxes
The average property tax rate in Williamsburg is about 0.8%, which is relatively low compared to other parts of the country. However, it’s important to check the specific property tax rates in the area you plan to buy, as rates vary by county and city.
Williamsburg Health Care
Williamsburg has several medical facilities, including:
- Sentara Williamsburg Regional Medical Center – A well-regarded facility offering a variety of services, including emergency care, surgery, and diagnostics.
- Riverside Doctors’ Hospital Williamsburg – Another key hospital in the area, offering specialized care and services like oncology and cardiology.
Additionally, Williamsburg residents have access to specialized medical care in nearby Richmond and Norfolk, where major medical centers and universities provide advanced treatment options.
Where to Live in Williamsburg
Williamsburg is divided into several neighborhoods and nearby areas, each offering its own personality.
- Historic Williamsburg – The heart of the city, ideal for those who want to live near Colonial Williamsburg.
- James City County – A more suburban area, offering larger homes and access to parks and golf courses.
- York County – A quieter, rural option just outside the city, with more space and larger lots.
Featured 55+ Communities in Williamsburg
Colonial Heritage – Williamsburg, VA
High $300ks – Mid $700ks
When work is complete, Colonial Heritage will have 1,800 attached and single-family homes. This is a prime location near Williamsburg Botanical Garden, Two Rivers Country Club, grocery stores, and Sentara Williamsburg Regional Medical Center.
Lennar designed several single-family floor plans for Colonial Heritage, ranging from 1,366 to 2,816 square feet with two to four bedrooms, two- to four-and-a-half baths, and attached two- to three-car garages. Features include tempered glass showers and hardwood floors.
You won’t be disappointed in the amenities in this community. In addition to the Arthur Hills-designed golf course, there’s a clubhouse, a restaurant, two swimming pools, and a fitness center.
Ford’s Colony – Williamsburg, VA
High $400ks – Low $3Ms
There’s something for every retiree homebuyer at Ford’s Colony. With 3,250 condos, attached, and single-family homes, you’re sure to find an ideal floor plan. This gated community offers models from different builders and a sought-after location near the James and York Rivers.
Ford’s Colony has a main section with subdivisions, and here’s a peek at three of them:
- Eaglescliffe: Seven buildings with units ranging from 1,700 to 2,100 square feet, with one to three bedrooms, two full bathrooms, and private, covered parking. Features include upgraded appliances, granite countertops, and 24-hour gated security.
- The Links at Ford’s: Eighty attached one and two-story resale townhomes, from about 1,300 to 2,200 square feet.
- Ford’s Colony: Over a dozen neighborhoods in this main area, with single-family homes sized between 2,686 and 3,524 square feet, offering three to five bedrooms, two- to three-and-a-half bathrooms, and attached garages.
This neighborhood is not age-restricted but boasts an active adult lifestyle we know you’ll like. The onsite amenities include Ford’s Colony Country Club, three 18-hole golf courses, two pools, and 14 tennis courts. The expansive property even has a 200-acre wildlife preserve.
The Governor’s Land at Two Rivers – Williamsburg, VA
High $600ks – Low $3Ms
Here’s a luxury gated golf course community with 750 single-family homes by multiple builders. Like Ford’s Colony, it has no age restrictions. If you’re in the market for a waterfront location, you’ve found a winner: The Governor’s Land at Two Rivers is between the James and Chickahominy Rivers.
The elegant floor plans offer considerable living space; some have four bedrooms and baths. Look for refined features like covered porches, private backyards, and stunning eat-in-kitchen with bay windows in these residences. You can also work with a builder to design your own dream home.
In addition to an 18-hole championship golf course, residents enjoy a private beach, a marina, swimming pools, and sports courts. There’s also a restaurant, a bar, a wine shop, and a fitness center.
Kingsmill – Williamsburg, VA
Low $300ks – Low $2Ms
Can’t decide if you want to downsize or upsize? Kingsmill offers 2,354 condo, attached, and single-family homes from multiple builders. This gated community doesn’t have age restrictions, but it does have impressive floor plans and desirable amenities like optional memberships to three golf courses. Kingsmill has resort-style amenities in addition to the golf course, like outdoor pools and on-site restaurants. There are also fishing lakes, a private beach, and a large marina for residents who own boats.
The Surrounding Williamsburg Area
The Groves at New Kent – New Kent, VA
High $300ks – High $500ks
With an affordable price point and 455 single-family homes, this 55+ community was started by K. Hovnanian and is being finished by Ryan Homes. The Groves at New Kent is part of a larger, master-planned community, called New Kent Vineyards. Residents have use of a Rees Jones championship golf course and the other amenities at New Kent Vineyards, including a winery, a fitness center, pools, and sports courts.
There are 10 floor plans offered, with a total of 14 main-level living models:
- K. Hovnanian: Ten models ranging from 1,434 to 3,238 square feet with up to five bedrooms and four bathrooms.
- Ryan Homes: Four models ranging from 1,338 to 1,696 square feet with two to three bedrooms, two bathrooms, dens, and attached two-car garages.
The Cottages at Viniterra – New Kent, VA
Mid $400ks – High $600ks
The Cottages at Viniterra is a smaller 55+ community with 118 single-family residences from CraftMaster Homes and Mungo Homes. This too is part of a larger, master-planned community, called Viniterra.
The first phase of these beautifully designed homes offers one or two-story models, with open-concept floor plans sized from 1,594 to 3,407 square feet. They offer two to five bedrooms, two to four bathrooms, and attached two-car garages. Features include kitchens with central islands, covered porches, lofts, basements, and first-floor primary suites.
Residents will have onsite access to luxury amenities like The Club at Viniterra, a championship golf club, a restaurant, a clubhouse, a swimming pool, pickleball courts, and tennis courts. The grounds will also feature a dog park and trails. New Kent Winery and Talleysville Brewery are also within this community.
Explore Williamsburg Homes for Sale
Whether you’re drawn to the area’s rich history, vibrant culture, or peaceful charm, discover the perfect Williamsburg 55+ community for your next chapter. Let 55places.com be your go-to resource for simplifying your move and finding the perfect place to call home. Start your journey today!
