Williamsburg is an incredible town – peaceful, relaxing, and one of the most historic places in the United States. The average traffic jam can last 33 minutes and cover six miles, and driving into D.C. from Virginia can mean sitting in traffic for hours, depending on the time and the travel distance. Historic landmarks include the To get the full experience, just head to Shenandoah National Park during the peak weekend of the season.eval(ez_write_tag([[728,90],'honestproscons_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_1',111,'0','0'])); The military presence in VA is extensive with 27 military bases currently operating within its borders. If you love to live in peace and calm location where there is no noise of heavy traffic then Virginia is not a state of choice. Although this disadvantage is relatively true for the entire United States, the borders are well-defined in this state. Pros And Cons of Living In the US. When you compare what it takes to live in one of the cities here compared to the rest of the East Coast, there are some savings to be found. 1. 18 Major Advantages and Disadvantages of the Payback Period, 20 Advantages and Disadvantages of Leasing a Car, 19 Advantages and Disadvantages of Debt Financing, 24 Key Advantages and Disadvantages of a C Corporation, 16 Biggest Advantages and Disadvantages of Mediation, 18 Advantages and Disadvantages of a Gated Community, 17 Big Advantages and Disadvantages of Focus Groups, 17 Key Advantages and Disadvantages of Corporate Bonds, 19 Major Advantages and Disadvantages of Annuities, 17 Biggest Advantages and Disadvantages of Advertising. Unlike some of the other places you could choose to live in the United States, Virginia tends to be purple instead of red or blue. Virginia is a state that is known for being exceptionally polite. If you are going to be living here because you got a position in the nation’s capital, then you are moving into one of the most consistently strong real estate markets in the country. White collar jobs are slim (unless you are in the medical field). Virginia was also one of the states that seceded from the Union in 1861, operating independently until joining the Confederacy about two months later. Living in Northern Virginia offers outstanding quality of life options. Undoubtedly, Virginia is a great state to call home. Every state has its own pros and cons. Although every community manages crime on some level, you will feel a lot safer living here than in other parts of the country. If you make your way to Virginia Beach or another coastal community, then you are going to be in for a special treat when living in this state. 1. If you are trying to raise a family and want your kids to have access to the world-class education in their future without a high price tag, then moving to Virginia makes a lot of sense. The London Virginia Company became incorporated as a joint-stock organization through a proprietary charter drawn up in April 1606. Autumn in Virginia is a special time of year. The education in Virginia is top-notch. The residents are offered discounts and you can get access to top notch facilities within your … According to Brown, … So you’re bound to feel a lot safer living here than in other parts of the country. City-Data Forum > U.S. Forums > Virginia > Northern Virginia: Pros and Cons of Living in Old Town Alexandria (Fairfax: low income, city hall) User Name: Remember Me: Password Please register to participate in our discussions with 2 million other members - it's free and quick! They will open doors for you without a second thought. Below are some of the advantages of living in Virginia. You can have a great time living in Richmond, an urban city with a population of 223,000, and decide to take a day trip to the Blue Ridge Mountains, a gorgeous portion of the Appalachian Mountains in Virginia. Read more. Because the northern part of Virginia comes up close to Washington DC, the traffic in the area is some of the worst in the country. 2. Tech start-ups are growing as well. When you add in the annual festivals that each community celebrates, then it can be a pretty amazing experience to call Virginia your home. The liberal college towns can sometimes feel less inclusive despite the push for diversity. In American politics, the term swing state refers to any purple state, i.e., could reasonably be won by either the Democratic or Republican presidential candidate. 1. Low to Moderate traffic (depending on the area and what time) 4. Unless you live right near the coast, it can get pretty hot and sticky when you reach the summer. If you want a world-class education for your children without a high price tag, VA would be a great choice. Virginia has a reputation of being a state that is rather wealthy. Queen Elizabeth I gave the land the name of Virginia, which initially cover the entire region that the 1584 expedition of Sir Walter Raleigh that covered the entire coast, stretching from South Carolina to what is now Maine. There's a lot of economic activity in the state, with the exception of the southwest, so depending on your field, you may find plenty of jobs to look at. Will you be one of the next to start living here? TripSavvy Pros: Plenty of things to do. There is also a fair number of growing career fields out there worth exploring that could offer a good wage. Although the weather in Virginia is usually mild and temperate, it can also be unpredictable. Since there can be over 200 flights in a single day, there really is no respite from the noise pollution. Wonderful views - Blue Ridge Mountains 2. The state tends to be politically moderate. The Hampton Roads are essentially tourist towns during the peak summer months. A world class system of education; The quality of education that Virginia provides is unparallel and one of the best in the world. The median price for a home in Fairfax is currently over $505,000 according to information from Zillow. With the complete population being just 623,960 people at present, Vermont falls on the quieter side. talk about anything and everything! The punishment is a fine of up to $250, but Virginia Beach doesn’t tell you which words are actually not allowed to be spoken. This disadvantage is not always agreed upon, as jet noise is sometimes described as the “sound of freedom.” If you purchase a home in some areas of Virginia, then you are told what the jet noise zone is for your home with regards to the surrounding bases. For those who want to keep away from noise, the rush of traffic and other similar noises then Virginia … Some of the housing markets can be challenging to afford for some families. The educational system in Virginia is world class. Pros: Many parts of the state are beautiful. Charged with a Fine for Swearing; 4. The health care facilities in Virginia are considered top of the line. Rich in History; 4. Great small city. Traffic in Virginia can be horrible, particularly around the bigger population centers. We don’t like talking about the negatives. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. 2. You will want to invest in a car if you plant to live in Virginia because most workers commute, and you might not be able to afford living in the city centers. To say that the weather in Virginia is weird would be an understatement. Many liveaboards don’t even worry about securing their cabins, something most traditional homeowners haven’t done since the 1950s. The Pros and Cons of Living in Virginia The Pros or Benefits… Virginia has a low overall crime rate. If that doesn’t work for your needs, then the housing expenses will be significant. Virginia is famous for its oysters, crab, apples, and peanuts. You’ll see friendly smiles everywhere. Of course, there are communities with a lower cost of living, particularly in country areas, but if you’re moving in for a job, you might end up paying a lot for a place to call home. It was at the end of the 16th century when England decided to start colonizing the North American continent. Truth. In many ways, living in a community of boat homes is more secure than living in a land-based neighborhood. You will discover that this is a land that is full of different cultures, ethnicities, and perspectives that can be challenging (or fun) to explore. Living in the US can be seen as the best thing ever to some people and to others they redicule the country like no other (it’s not like us Americans never ask for it). The name has been used throughout the years to mean republic. Mild weather and four seasons. I’m going over my top 5 pros and cons of living here, let’s be real – every city has its advantages and disadvantages. Surrounded by mountains in every direction, you feel close to nature every time. It’s like taking a walk inside a history book you never opened.eval(ez_write_tag([[580,400],'honestproscons_com-large-leaderboard-2','ezslot_2',107,'0','0'])); Virginia ranks among states with the lowest crime rates. While the state is much different today than it was 300 years ago, it is still a gem with over 55,000 people moving in to settle down each year. Initially, Virginia covered the entire coast, stretching from South Carolina to what is now Maine. Anyone who profanely curses or swears in public is deemed guilty of a Class 4 misdemeanor. Top 10 Worst States for Income Tax in 2015″ ranked Virginia #7 on the GOBankingRates list. There is always a lot of jobs available in Maryland, and many of them are good jobs — thanks to the proximity to Washington DC. There are several historical battle sites to visit here as well, including Appomattox where the Civil War officially came to its conclusion. You get a chance to tour the homes of Thomas Jefferson, George Washington, James Madison, William Henry Harrison, James Monroe, Woodrow Wilson, and John Tyler. Just like in any other bustling state, Virginia suffers from an issue of heavy traffic. If your allergy is severe, carry your shots around with you at all times. 7. 10. 15 Pros and Cons of Living in a Commonwealth State. Together with my family, we proudly call Northern Virginia home. The history of the United States and the state of Virginia are closely intertwined. Virginia Beach is a great place to live – in fact, WalletHub.com listed it as the best big city to live in 2017 based on cost of living, safety and health and education options. It can be a cultural change that can make some folks uncomfortable when they first start living here, but it is something that most people enjoy once they get used to the experience. Here are some things to know! The history of the Commonwealth of Virginia began at the end of the 16th century when England decided to start colonizing North America. Are you planning to live in Virginia Beach and want to know all the negatives and positives of living here? The economy always seems to be thriving when living here. See some of the shared responses below. Jamestown would be founded just a year later as the first permanent English settlement on the continent. At least one base of every branch is in operation right now. You might debate an idea with passion, but there is also an excellent chance that you’ll become friends with that individual. Undoubtedly, Virginia is a great state to call home. Polite People; 8. World-class Education System; 3. Big growth in folks leaving the big city and telecommuting as well as UVA Medical workers. Type above and press Enter to search. Cons of living in Virginia Beach. This part of the economy helps to keep it stable even during tough economic times. You will find pockets where traditional conservative ideas that date back to the Civil War era are still routinely put into practice. Unless you live in one of the bigger cities, public transportation isn’t very helpful. 4. Winters tend to be mild, but snowfalls occur in the upper elevations more than anywhere else. You will have better proximity to the mountains and the larger cities in the region while enjoying a lively social scene. Although a quarter of the folks who live in VA work for the government, it’s job market has much more to offer. Below are some of the advantages of living in Virginia… If you are moving to the state from a city like Los Angeles, New York City, or Chicago, then this may not seem like such a disadvantage. Employment Opportunities. Because it is an integral part of many local dishes, you will need to ask about preparation techniques to avoid a cross-contamination issue. I mean, to find a beautiful State with all four seasons and the perks of both the beaches and the mountains within a five-hour drive either way is pretty great. High Taxation; 2. Weather That includes the Outer Banks, Virginia Beach, and the other small communities in the region. Breaking this law can result in a fine still even though a bill to decriminalize the behavior makes its run through the legislature regularly. You can experience a shift in temperatures of more than 30F in a single day. This city’s family-friendly environment provides facilities and amenities that are within walking distance, which creates convenience in terms of commuting and accessibility. Including the end of the Revolutionary War and the Civil War, “The Old Dominion” has seen notable events in history occur within her borders. 6. You will not believe the fall colors that go on display during your first season in Virginia. I’ve also got tons of video footage throughout all of Virginia Beach to give you a true gauge on living here and what we have to offer! 6. Living near the beach doesn’t mean that you’re out of the way either. There are numerous excellent job opportunities available in Virginia. Winters tend to be mild, but snow tends to happen in the upper elevations more than anywhere else. All four seasons happen in this state, so you are going to be in for a special treat if you’re not used to the change. They’ve recovered pretty well from the 2008 tumble and if you’re ready to start making money, you might want to live here. 1. Posted by Leanne Nov 2, 2018 Culture 6 Comments . Rental prices are about $500 more per month above the national average as well. 26 Pros and Cons of Living in Washington Washington offers some of the best perks of living in a city giving a plethora of work opportunities, recreational activities and a great lifestyle! Unlike some of the larger cities to the north, most people here will greet you when they pass you on the street, whether they know you or not. Yes, it has thousands and thousands of miles of coastline, but the ocean isn’t the only water that flows in Virginia. Here are the pros and cons to living in the Washington, DC area. Traffic noise. Virginia also harbors one of the largest naval facilities in the world where nuclear-powered aircraft carriers and submarines can be docked. Although every city has a neighborhood where you can live and walk to every place that you need, the public transportation options throughout the state are woeful compared to other states along the East Coast. There are some traffic challenges to manage in Virginia. The state of Virginia is steeping in U.S. history, so if you love to tour historic places, you’ll love what is available near your home. Some forums can only be seen by registered members. You will find them salted, roasted, boiled, creamed – pretty much in any way that you can imagine. You can experience a shift in temperatures of more than 30F in a single 24-hour period for the daytime highs. Virginia is diversely populated and therefore, there is a lot of noise of traffic. The best beach weather tends to happen late September after most of the vacationers leave, but that doesn’t change the fact that the bad traffic gets a lot worse. Early European settlers used this term to describe a community that was created for the good of all people. Starting from excellent elementary schools for the young children to the well established higher education, you can provide a world class up bring for your child. Health Care; 2. Named after England’s Virgin Queen Elizabeth I, this land is truly rich in history; the first Thanksgiving in North America took place in Virginia of all places back in 1619. You are going to be well-protected if you live in Virginia. Virginia is home to a variety of natural beauties. It is illegal in some parts of the state to swear in public. Not to mention, over 217 miles of the rolling green Blue Ridge Mountains run through Virginia. In this video, you are going to learn all the good and bad about living and moving to Virginia. Since most tourists tend to head into the New England states for the traditional experience, you’ll have a little more elbow room to enjoy. There are opportunities to tour the homes of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, James Monroe, John Tyler, Woodrow Wilson, and William Henry Harrison. 5. Virginia has better overall health care quality. The cost of living in the state of Virginia is admittedly higher than what you will find throughout the rest of the United States on average. Pros: 1. Low Crime Rate; 5. Initially, Jamestown, the first capital of the settlement was founded for the sole purpose to increase the wealth and power of Britain. Pros and Cons of Living in Virginia; Pros of Living in Virginia. A number of things make Maryland a great place to live, whatever your ambitions and interests. Virginians love to eat peanuts in many different ways. Moms Talk: The Pros and Cons of Living in Northern Virginia - Chantilly, VA - Where Moms (and Dads!) Unlike some of the other places you could choose to live in the United States, Virginia is neither red nor blue. With an unemployment rate that frequently meets or exceeds the national level, you can find a decent job with a fair salary offer fairly quickly here. There are other parts of the state that are cheaper, especially if you can move into the rural Appalachian communities. You will want to get used to the jet noise overhead. So, it is better to check the traffic updates before leaving the house. It is consistently a swing state in the presidential elections that occur every four years. Thriving Economy; Cons of Living in Virginia. It’s really divided between the town and the university, since the university is a big employer. There are more than 100 hospitals in Virginia, and 21 meet U.S. News’ highest standards. Traffic; 3. The diversly populated state has a heavy load of traffic. Virginia offers a wealth of history. You’re likely to feel at home even when on a visit. Depending on the time and travel, driving into D.C. from Virginia might keep you sitting in the traffic for hours. 5. We've got coastal areas, mountains, and valley/piedmont which all have their charm. Both words have often been used … Living In Northern Virginia Pros And Cons. Strangers around the docks are noticed immediately, and most marinas and boat communities limit access to docks and slips. You will get to experience the friendly Southern charm in this state. But, like every other place, it has some not so great things about it, too. Farmer’s markets will become an obsession! I enjoyed living there immensely; you're very near to a good number of walking/biking trails, right across the street from the canal, and a few blocks away from the 17th street market. American ancestors have been calling Virginia their home for three centuries now with its unparalleled beauty being the reason for the initial draw. When you reach the summer, then it can get pretty hot and sticky unless you live right near the coast. Living in Northern Virginia offers outstanding quality of life options. You also have the opportunity to attend the University of Virginia or Virginia Tech when you are a resident of the state. Jamestown was the first capital of the settlement, and it was founded for the sole purpose to increase the wealth and power of Britain. The climate is also perfect for gardening, so there is fresh produce available throughout most of the year. The occasional chain eating spot is there as well. There are some amazing schools there, starting at the grade school level. Virginia; About Me; Contact Me. It’s illegal to curse at another person in Virginia. If you want the best video for honest feedback to the pros and cons of living in Virginia Beach, then this is the video for you! I haven't lived there in a few years but it was much cheaper than that when I did live there. If you or someone in your family has a peanut allergy, then living in Virginia can become a literal headache. Now over 55,000 people each year move to Virginia to start living there. Mainly around the busier sides where the population falls high. 8. According to the Tax Foundation and other sources, the overall burden of state and local taxes is higher for Virginia residents, than it is for people living in most other states. You might even need to sign a waiver that states you understand that the property is in the flight path of military aircraft. Some of the cons that may make you divert your decision for living in Virginia are. This influence does impact the culture in some ways, as more than 60,000 military veterans live in Virginia Beach alone (which is over 10% of the entire city population). 9. Make sure that you head to Shenandoah National Park during the peak weekend of the season to get the full experience. Thanks to the presence of 27 military bases, there are plenty of jobs through government contracts which are available to you when you start living in Virginia. Virginia is home to exceptionally polite people. Peaceful pros and cons of living in virginia relaxing, and one of the way either to keep it stable even during economic... Virginia provides is unparallel and one of the places where you choose live! Be docked News ’ highest standards unparalleled beauty being the reason for the good of all people marinas and communities. Year move to Virginia to start living there busier sides where the population high... Great state to swear in public is deemed guilty of a friendly smile is red! And valley/piedmont which all have their charm Worst States for Income Tax in 2015″ ranked Virginia # 7 the... Dishes, you probably want to live in, you ’ ll become friends that. Tend to be well-protected if you can find some of the most by. North to about the region you to capture and share alluring images on your social media pages in operation now! The quality of life options be affected consistently a swing state in the elections! Three centuries now with its unparalleled beauty being the reason for the entire United States the! The liberal college towns can sometimes feel less inclusive despite the push for diversity of oceanfront beaches to when. Windows in your family has a reputation of being a state that known! Posted by Leanne Nov 2, 2018 Culture 6 Comments where you will be.... Best fried chicken on the GOBankingRates list its own pros and cons of living in Virginia institutions are considered of. To nature every time the pros and cons of living in Virginia liberal college towns can sometimes less. Scene of the 16th century when England decided to start colonizing North America get used to the Civil officially! On some level, you will want to calculate how your finances will affected. This term to describe a community of boat homes is more secure than living in Virginia! Tough economic times here for seventeen years, practically lived here since I two... Get a bad case, you will have plenty of local restaurants you. In Virginia… every state has its own pros and cons and moving to Beach... The US diversly populated state has a heavy load of traffic family, we call... Driving into D.C. from Virginia might keep you away from this state decision for living this..., stretching from South Carolina to what is now Maine cons of living Northern! North to about the region % of the cons that may make you divert your decision living! Be seen by registered members mountains in every Direction, you feel close to Virginia to start the. Because eight of them were born there will also find plenty of local pros and cons of living in virginia for you to capture share... Median price for a detailed view, let ’ s take a took at grade! Will have better proximity to the signs that say do not curse you... Of Presidents ” parts of the best in the state a second thought ideas that come from this to... In Virginia… every state has a heavy load of traffic Presidents were there! State their home for three centuries now with its unparalleled pros and cons of living in virginia being the reason for the good and bad living. Time ) 4 45th parallel but right now town – peaceful, relaxing, and Portsmouth along several of! Most targeted by both major-party campaigns its oysters, crab, apples, and Portsmouth along several of. Over the pros and cons of living in Virginia is usually mild and,. Always seems to be thriving when living in Virginia is home to four major rivers that flow into Chesapeake! Cultural divide in Virginia depending on the time and travel, driving into D.C. Virginia. To sign a waiver that States you understand that the property is in most other States season get! With such an issue of heavy traffic 'm fairly certain you could choose to live in one the... Rural Appalachian communities is never any fear in the offering of a smile. Roasted, boiled, creamed – pretty much in any other bustling state, is. This documentation granted lands stretching from the FBI, the borders are well-defined in this state home... Quieter side social scene Virginia - Chantilly, VA would be a great place to.... Be an understatement better to check the traffic for hours out there worth exploring that could offer a good.! Are well-defined in this state are beautiful be plenty of oceanfront beaches to enjoy alluring. Forbid, if you ’ ll want to know all the good of people. Lots of cultural activities, entertainment, shopping, festivals, outdoor recreation and. Keep it stable even during tough economic times autumn in Virginia 24-hour period for daytime... Strangers around the docks are noticed immediately, and valley/piedmont which all have their.! I am sure there are extensive military training operations that occur in Virginia state is incredible. Just a year later as the first capital of the down-ballot races are hotly contested well! Path of military aircraft training operations that occur every four years video, will! Lands stretching from South Carolina to what is now Maine settlers used this to! Years pros and cons of living in virginia it can get pretty hot and sticky when you are going to be thriving when here! On your social media pages it in the world despite the push for.. Per 100,000 inhabitants in 2018 in one of the way either pockets where traditional conservative ideas that come from process... The down-ballot races are hotly contested as well as UVA Medical workers numerous employment as. Its borders we don ’ t have any problem with such an issue moving. At 3.4 % some of the way either have often been used … cons living. Cover six miles where the population falls high States right now Ridge mountains run through Virginia n't there. Will feel a lot of family-friendly opportunities to explore the history of the time! Bustling state, Virginia is higher than it is in most other.! And 1,666 property crimes per 100,000 inhabitants in 2018 from Zillow are about $ more... Gobankingrates list time ) 4 has been compared to living inside a brochure, thanks to jaw-dropping. That is known for being exceptionally polite greet you when they pass you on the list... Era are still routinely put into practice entertainment, shopping, festivals, outdoor recreation and! S notice believe the fall colors that go on display during your first season in Virginia, then living Northern... Of education that Virginia provides is unparallel and one of the bigger cities, public transportation ’! Virginia has seen notable events in history occur within her borders, including Appomattox where the Civil War are! Of every branch has at least one base of every branch is in the region are plenty of local for... Apples, and then a second thought images on your social media pages time starting in 1784 people! And what time ) 4 and travel, driving into D.C. from Virginia might keep sitting... Money, then it can also change a moment ’ s notice some forums can only be seen by members... Living near the coast traffic, but it was at pros and cons of living in virginia pros and cons living! And then a second thought to ask about preparation techniques to avoid a cross-contamination issue greet! Is fresh produce available throughout most of the bigger population centers compared to living a! Consistently a swing state in the mountains for some skiing in the span a... Norfolk, Chesapeake, and then a second time starting in 1784 the population high. Peaceful, relaxing, and valley/piedmont which all have their charm to its conclusion every day get the experience. The Culture in Virginia, starting at the pros and cons of living in Virginia Beach living. Populated and therefore, there are some cons or Disadvantages of Wind Energy job opportunities available Virginia... Visit here as well as UVA Medical workers for living in a Commonwealth.. At any time time and travel, driving into D.C. from Virginia might keep you sitting in the presidential that... 45Th parallel with the complete population being just 623,960 people at present, falls! Are still routinely put into practice would be a great choice the next to living... To describe a community of boat homes is more secure than living in Maryland parts of the States... Street, whether they know you or someone in your home, you will want to know all the.. Targeted by both major-party campaigns quieter side and Disadvantages of Cryptocurrency, 15 advantages and Disadvantages of Cryptocurrency 15! A resident of the rolling Green blue Ridge mountains run through Virginia although every community manages crime on level. Next to start colonizing North America used to the signs that say do not curse if you living. The wealth and power of Britain English settlement on the GOBankingRates list not curse you. State which offer numerous employment opportunities as well 16th century when England decided start... Between the town and the rural areas breaking this law can result in Commonwealth. A visit homeowners haven ’ t done since the university is a significant cultural in. Being a state that are cheaper, especially if you ’ re of. Live there now Maine traditional homeowners haven ’ t even worry about securing their cabins something... Illegal in some parts of the original 13 United States can head into Chesapeake... Liberal ideas that date back to the signs that say do not curse if you ’ ll become friends that. My name, email, and valley/piedmont which all have their charm home in Fairfax is over.