Suffolk, VA 55+ Active Adult Retirement Communities

If you're considering retiring to Suffolk there are a few local resources that can help you learn more about the area. The official website for the City of Suffolk publishes information about local events, attractions, and services. The Suffolk tourism website provides additional information about things to do in the area and highlights the town's unique history and culture. For those looking to connect with the local community, the Suffolk News-Herald website offers up-to-date news and events, as well as features on local people and places. Finally, the Suffolk Public Library website provides information about the town's library system, which offers a wealth of resources for residents of all ages.

Affordability and Cost of Living

Active adults seeking to retire in southeast Virginia may find Suffolk an affordable and tax-friendly option worth careful consideration. Most taxes and expenses in Old Dominion fall below national averages, which makes Suffolk a reasonable and desirable place to live. The state income taxes range from 2 percent (on income up to $3,000) to 5.75 percent (on amounts more than $17,000). These taxes also apply to pensions and annuities. However, the state exempts Social Security benefits from any income taxes, which helps keep more money in the pockets of retirees. Residents do not have to worry about any estate or inheritance taxes, either.

The overall cost of living in Suffolk closely aligns with national averages, which reflects the affordability of the area. Everyday expenses such as healthcare, housing, and groceries fall near the median costs when compared to the rest of the country. Sales tax in Suffolk is 6 percent, which includes 4.3 percent from the state, 1 percent from the city, and 0.7 percent in special taxes. In terms of property taxes, homeowners are taxed approximately 0.77 percent of their home’s assessed fair market value. The cost of living in Suffolk falls along the middle of the road, which makes it a well-balanced choice for active adults searching for their next home.

Climate and Geography

Suffolk has a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot and humid summers and mild winters. The average high temperature in July, the hottest month, is typically in the high 80s, while the average low temperature in January, the coldest month, is in the low 30s. The area experiences an average annual rainfall of around 48 inches, with most of the precipitation occurring during the summer months. On average, there are 210 sunny days per year in Suffolk, providing ample opportunities to enjoy the outdoors throughout the year.

Suffolk is located in the Coastal Plain region of Virginia, with the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge located southeast of town. This area is characterized by flat terrain, with gently rolling hills and numerous streams and waterways. The town is also located just a short drive from the Chesapeake Bay, providing easy access to beaches and water activities. The abundance of natural beauty in and around Suffolk, including parks, nature preserves, and wildlife refuges, provides ample opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and other outdoor activities. Additionally, the town's location on major transportation routes, including US Route 58 and Interstate 664, make it easy to access other parts of Virginia and beyond.

Recreation, Shopping, and Entertainment

Suffolk is a vibrant community with a range of recreational, cultural, and entertainment options for residents and visitors alike. Whether you're looking to explore the great outdoors, learn about local history and culture, or simply enjoy shopping and dining, Suffolk has much to offer active adult homebuyers interested in Virginia’s Coastal Plain.

Golf and Racquet Sports:

• Suffolk Golf Course
• Sleepy Hole Golf Course
• Elizabeth Manor Golf & Country Club
• Lake Meade Park Tennis Courts

Hiking, Biking, and Boating:

• Lone Star Lakes Park
• Suffolk Seaboard Coastline Trail
• Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge
• James River

Museums and Historical Sites:

• Suffolk Seaboard Station Railroad Museum
• Riddick's Folly House Museum
• Suffolk-Nansemond Historical Society
• Constant's Wharf Park & Marina

Performing Arts:

• Suffolk Center for Cultural Arts
• Hugh R. Copeland Center
• The NorVa

Shopping:

• Oak Ridge Shopping Center
• Suffolk Farmers Market
• Shoppes 174
• Kensington Square Shopping Center

Parks and Gardens:

• Cypress Park
• Coulbourn Park
• Planters Park
• Botetourt Gardens

Festivals and Fairs:

• Suffolk Peanut Fest
• Suffolk Restaurant Week
• Nansemond Indian Nation Annual Pow Wow
• Suffolk Earth and Arts Festival

Health and Wellness

Suffolk has several hospitals and medical centers that provide high-quality care to residents. There are several options for primary care, preventive care, and specialty care services in the area. Sentara Obici Hospital is a full-service hospital located in the heart of Suffolk, offering a wide range of medical services, including emergency care, surgery, cancer care, and more. This hospital is staffed by highly trained healthcare professionals who are committed to providing the best possible care to their patients. In addition to Sentara Obici Hospital, residents of Suffolk have access to other major medical centers in nearby cities, including Chesapeake Regional and Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center.

For those looking to maintain their health and wellness, Suffolk has several options for self-care and keeping fit,  including gyms such as Suffolk Family YMCA and Anytime Fitness, which offer a range of fitness classes, personal training, and other wellness services. There are also several parks and trails throughout the city, providing opportunities for walking, jogging, and cycling. The Suffolk Parks and Recreation Department offers a variety of programs and activities, including fitness classes, sports leagues, and more. Additionally, the city has several mental health resources, including counseling services and support groups, to help residents maintain their emotional and mental well-being.

Recommended Itinerary for Visiting Area 55+ Communities

Day One

Morning:

• Start your day with breakfast at Huddle House, a diner-style restaurant that serves biscuits and gravy, waffles, sweet cakes, and more.
• Visit the Suffolk Seaboard Station Railroad Museum, which showcases the city's rich history as a transportation hub.

Afternoon:

• Have lunch at Mason’s Grill and Smokehouse, a local favorite for pulled pork, brisket, and baby back ribs.
• Take a stroll through Lake Meade Park, which offers scenic views of the lake and trails for walking or biking.

Evening:

• Have dinner at Vintage Tavern, a restaurant specializing in farm-to-fork cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients.
• Catch a show at the Suffolk Center for Cultural Arts, a performing arts venue that hosts concerts, plays, and other events.

Day Two

Morning:

• Start your day with breakfast at Reynold’s Cafe, a local favorite near the downtown area.
• Visit the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, a beautiful natural area with trails for hiking and wildlife viewing.

Afternoon:

• Have lunch at the River Stone Chophouse, a restaurant known for its steak and seafood dishes.
• Meet with a local 55places real estate expert to learn about the various 55+ communities in Suffolk.

Evening:

• Enjoy dinner at Harper’s Table, which serves a varied selection of entrees and has a fantastic cocktail menu.

Getting to Suffolk, VA

Suffolk, VA is easily accessible by car or plane. Major highways into the area include I-64, US-58, and US-13. For those arriving by air, Norfolk International (ORF) is the closest major airport, located approximately 30 miles east of Suffolk. Airlines that fly into Norfolk International include American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and Southwest Airlines. This airport serves as a primary hub for Delta, offering flights to and from major cities across the United States, including Atlanta, Detroit, Minneapolis, and New York. Ground transportation options from the airport to Suffolk include rental cars, taxis, and shuttle services.