Called “The Old Dominion State,” Virginia is historically known for being the birthplace of eight U.S. Presidents. And now, it’s gaining a reputation as one of the nation’s top retirement destinations. That’s because more and more active adults are seeking milder climates and slower paces of life than we find in hot spots like Florida and Arizona.
We get it: the snowbird lifestyle is very appealing to retirees, but remember, it’s not the only option. A Virginia retirement offers a different lifestyle, with breathtaking scenic beauty, historical interest, and a comfortable four-season climate. Just as importantly, there are many affordable places to retire in Virginia, in different parts of the state.
Virginia also boasts access to excellent health care and countless recreational and cultural opportunities. It’s considered a retirement-friendly state as well:
- Sales tax rates are low: Currently, they are 4.30 percent, plus a mandatory 1 percent local add-on sales tax rate.
- Property taxes are low.
- Virginia doesn’t tax Social Security retirement benefits.
- Retirement account and pension income withdrawals are deductible up to $12,000 for seniors.
Virginia is smaller than Arizona and Florida, and all three have distinct regions to explore. We’ve broken down Virginia’s main areas, profiled them, and shared some of our best 55+ communities in each. It’s best to compare these regions and see what the communities offer; some have age restrictions while others don’t.
Fredericksburg Area
Some of the most affordable places to retire in Virginia are in Fredericksburg. This city is an excellent choice for retirees who appreciate a historic setting and a lower cost of living. It is well known for its colonial-era charm, vibrant downtown, and access to the Rappahannock River.
One of the most significant advantages of retiring in Fredericksburg is its proximity (a two-hour drive) to Washington, D.C.—close enough to visit without the high costs associated with living there. Fredericksburg is also home to Mary Washington Hospital and attractions like its Old Town, Fredericksburg And Spotsylvania National Military Park, and Motts Run Reservoir Recreation Area.
Summerlake
Low $300ks – High $300ks
With 161 resale single-family and attached homes ranging from 1,462 to 1,969 square feet, Summerlake offers low-maintenance living with desirable community amenities. Residents here enjoy a clubhouse with activity rooms, a stocked fishing lake, a park, and a heated swimming pool.
Turnberry East at Lee’s Hill
Low $300ks – Mid $300ks
Tucked into the Lee’s Hill master-planned community, Turnberry East is a luxury active lifestyle community with golf course access. It has 60 resale attached homes sized from 1,670 to 1,710 square feet. This neighborhood also offers two community centers, tennis courts, a sand volleyball court, two outdoor pools, and activities like its 55 Club trips & events.
The Villas of Salem Church
Low $300ks – High $300ks
We recommend touring this Fredericksburg property if you’re looking for affordable villa-style homes with a close-knit feel. It has 45 new attached models with open-concept floor plans and attached one-car garages. And what a location—the property is close to downtown Fredericksburg, which is full of shopping, dining, and entertainment venues.
Richmond Area
Drive 60 miles south of Fredericksburg, and you’ll arrive in Richmond, Virginia’s capital. Housing costs are significantly lower here than in Northern Virginia, so it’s a viable option for retirees looking to stretch their savings.
Richmond balances urban amenities and suburban affordability. It has a dynamic cultural scene, with art galleries, theaters, and historic sites offering plenty of activities for retirees. The city also has excellent healthcare facilities, including the renowned VCU Medical Center. Outdoorsy types appreciate the James River Park System, which offers walking trails, kayaking, and scenic picnic spots; other attractions include the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts and Kings Dominion.
Cobblestone
High $200ks – Mid $300ks
Here’s a cozy, budget-friendly community with walking trails and regular social events about 21 miles south of Richmond proper. Cobblestone has 154 resale single-family and attached homes ranging from 1,240 to 2,159, with features like screened-in porches and two-car garages. This community’s indoor and outdoor amenities include a clubhouse and walking trails.
The Villas at Virginia Center
Low $300ks – High $300ks
This neighborhood offers lovely low-maintenance homes in a convenient location near shopping and dining. There are just 72 resale attached properties, ranging from 1,110 to 1,654 square feet, with attached two-car garages. These homeowners enjoy on-site offerings like a clubhouse, an outdoor pool, and a patio.
Winchester Area
More off the beaten path and one of our favorite affordable places to retire in Virginia, Winchester is in the Shenandoah Valley, about 90 miles west of D.C. It’s a lovely region known for historic architecture and is called the “apple capital of the world.” Winchester has historic plantations, battlegrounds, the requisite Old Town, and Winchester Medical Center.
This town offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation, such as hiking in Shenandoah National Park and fishing and paddleboarding at Clearbrook Park.
Willow Lawn Cottages
Mid $300ks – Mid $300ks
Retirees seeking quaint, affordable homes in a peaceful setting fall in love with Willow Lawn Cottages. This friendly community has 120 resale single-family homes ranging from 1,132 to 1,644 square feet and a welcoming community clubhouse. Residents gather there to use the exercise room and attend parties with their neighbors.
Cross Creek Village
Low $300ks – High $300k
Cross Creek Village homeowners like to stay active, and the on-site amenities here help them pursue their passions. There are 90 spacious resale homes, ranging from 1,500 to 2,600 square feet, with features like private backyards and covered porches. The community perks include a clubhouse with a fully stocked catering kitchen and a multipurpose room.
Woodbrook Village
Low $300ks – High $300ks
Woodbrook Village has everything retirees want: low-maintenance homes with easy access to Winchester’s shops and restaurants. This charming setting has 81 resale attached residences, walking and biking trails, and a clubhouse; neighbors spend time together at holiday parties, socials, and game nights.
Charlottesville Area
Located just over an hour west of Richmond and Home to the University of Virginia, Charlottesville is another affordable retirement setting. While some parts of the city lean toward the higher end of the housing market, many surrounding areas provide budget-friendly living options.
Charlottesville is known for its strong healthcare system, anchored by UVA Health, which offers top-tier medical services. The university enriches the region’s cultural scene with concerts, lectures, and arts events open to the public; outdoor lovers take in breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains while exploring local wineries and nature trails.
Village at Meadow Pointe
Mid $200ks – Mid $300ks
Budget-friendly with a strong sense of community, Village at Meadow Pointe offers 136 resale attached homes ranging from 1,400 to 2,700 square feet with attached one- or two-car garages. One of this community’s best-liked features is its botanical garden; other outdoor amenities include a lake, children’s playground, and trails. There’s also an indoor activity center.
Downey Knolls
Low $200ks – High $200ks
If you’re looking for new construction, Downey Knolls will have 76 well-designed single-family and attached homes on a quiet property in Elkton, VA. It’s designed for retirees seeking a low-maintenance lifestyle; the homes range from 1,000 to 1,480 square feet, and there’s easy access to a neighboring shopping center. When work is complete, there will be a 9-hole golf course, a clubhouse, RV parking, and trails on the grounds.
Norfolk Area
Our southernmost region in Virginia is close to North Carolina, on the east coast. If you dream of living near the water, Norfolk is an affordable alternative to pricier beach towns. It also has a strong military presence at Chesapeake Bay, providing additional benefits for retired service members.
The Norfolk area is home to Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, the Norfolk Botanical Garden, the historic Attucks Theatre, and the Elizabeth River Trail. Compared to other East Coast beach towns, Norfolk has a strong community feel and a lower cost of living without sacrificing the benefits of a coastal lifestyle.
The Commons at Hunningdon Lakes
Mid $200ks – Low $300ks
This well-maintained Norfolk-area 55+ community has 87 resale attached homes averaging 2,300 square feet and a prime location outside downtown Chesapeake. Each home has a modern floor plan and an attached two-car garage; the property offers excellent walking trails.
Monarch Walk
Mid $100ks – Low $200ks
This small, friendly gated community of 62 resale attached and condo homes is conveniently close to Norfolk’s shopping and dining. The floor plans range from 1,257 to 1,650 square feet and offer perks like large loft spaces, backyard patios, and attached one-car garages. There’s also a clubhouse with a grilling area, a golf practice area, a fitness center, and a gathering room.
Explore the Most Affordable Places to Retire in Virginia
Virginia offers retirees and soon-to-be retirees a sense of history, local flavor, and affordable retirement communities. We’ve given you a good start with five regions and 55 + properties to visit. These areas provide reasonable housing costs, access to quality health care, and ample recreational opportunities to encourage a fulfilling retirement. Browse affordable real estate options in Virginia, or contact us to find the perfect 55+ community for your budget and lifestyle.
