Most Affordable Places for Retirees in Virginia

History, variety, and a plethora of recreational activities make Virginia a popular place for retirement, especially those trying to escape both the harsh winters of the north and the humid summers of the south. And with a state that offers everything from mountains to bays, retirees can take their pick of scenery. While cost of living in the state is high on average, it varies from city to city, meaning there are many economical places to settle down for those golden years.

However, not all of the state’s cities are created equal. Here are the most affordable places for retirees in Virginia:

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Roanoke
With a cost of living 11.2 percent lower than the national average, according to MarketWatch, Roanoke is a great place for retirees. Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, the city offers more than just majestic views of mountains and rivers, but access to them. It’s an ideal location for active seniors who love to hike and bike, but without the price tag of colder and more expensive mountain towns in Colorado or Vermont. The median home price is just over $146,000 and retirement communities and volunteer opportunities abound.

Winchester
The average cost of living may be a little higher here than elsewhere, but home prices averaging $151,500 and sales tax of just 5 percent, together with all of the city’s cultural amenities and history, make it well worth it for many. AARP designated Winchester as one of 10 Affordable Cities for Retirement. Six major battles of the Civil War transpired in the surrounding area and the rural location offers not only parks and galleries but music, theater, dance, and nearby Shenandoah National Park.

Northern Neck
More of a region than a city, this area of Virginia includes parts of five counties, including several cities and smaller towns. The benefit of most of them is low property taxes. Home prices vary depending on proximity to the water and other big cities, but taxes are low, especially in the towns of Kilmarnock, Montross, Tappahannok, and Warsaw, according to Bay River Realty. The area sits between the Rappahannock and Potomac rivers, allowing easy access to the water, and offers a wealth of history, great for a quieter, more relaxed retirement.

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