Looking for a place to retire in Virginia? These Virginia coastal towns offer mild winters, beautiful beaches, and affordable housing.
1. Cape Charles
population: 1,297
Percentage of population aged 60 and over: 27%
Median monthly rent: $482
Cape Charles is a small town on Virginia’s east coast that is popular with retirees for its quiet, laid-back atmosphere. Home prices are more affordable here than in many other parts of Virginia, so it’s easy on your wallet.
The town is home to beautiful beaches on the Chesapeake Bay and a community where many seniors choose to live. The cost of living is not too high, so you can relax and enjoy your retirement without constantly worrying about money. Overall, Cape His Charles is the perfect place for anyone looking for a quiet beachside retreat.
2. Colonial Beach
population: 4,002
Percentage of population aged 60 and over: 40.7%
Median monthly rent: $975
Colonial Beach is located along the Potomac River and is a quiet location popular with retirees. However, it’s not just about tranquility. There is also a sandy beach and an attractive promenade. Additionally, home prices are through the roof, which is great news for people on fixed incomes.
The town itself is peaceful, but if you feel like you need more options, it’s not far from larger cities like Fredericksburg and Richmond. A large portion of the town’s population is made up of senior citizens, making it a popular retirement location.
3. Virginia Beach
population: 454,289 1
Percentage of population aged 60 and over: 26.8%
Median monthly rent: $2,100
Virginia Beach is a popular vacation spot because it’s affordable and has a lot to offer. You can have the ocean without sacrificing the convenience of the city. Housing costs are also reasonable, so you can live comfortably without going over your budget. Sandbridge is a quiet area where many retirees prefer the quiet beach atmosphere.
The city is part of the Hampton Roads metropolitan area, so it has a mix of urban and rural areas. It’s an attractive option for retirees looking for a balanced lifestyle. Many people over the age of 60 live here, which explains its appeal to retirees. With its excellent medical care and activities, Virginia Beach is the perfect retirement destination on the Virginia coast.
4. Yorktown
population: 286
Percentage of population aged 60 and over: 73.1%
Median monthly rent: $1,073
Yorktown is a charming and historic town on the York River, part of the Historic Triangle along with Jamestown and Williamsburg. This town has a relaxed, slow pace that many retirees appreciate. Housing costs aren’t cheap, but nearby cities offer a quiet environment and great health care options.
Yorktown has a large population of older adults, which means it’s a popular place to retire. This town not only offers peace and quiet, but also a combination of natural beauty and historic buildings.
5. Chincoteague
population: 3,338
Percentage of population aged 60 and over: 49%
Median monthly rent: $850
Known for its wild ponies and pristine beaches, Chincoteague is a small town on Virginia’s East Coast that’s perfect for a quiet retreat. Although we don’t have specific data on housing costs, the town’s decent average household income means it’s likely to be an affordable place to live.
Many seniors call Chincoteague home, noting its appeal among retirees. The town hosts an annual pony swim and auction, which is popular with local residents. If you’re interested in nature, Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge offers plenty of opportunities to explore.
Dollar Sanity details:
9 fun retirement jobs that will help you make a little money
How to save $5,000 in 6 months on a low income
10 best luxury cars under $20,000
David Bakke is a personal finance expert and author of the book Don’t Be A Mule. He earned his bachelor’s degree in creative writing from the University of South Florida, specializing in money management, investing, retirement, income generation, and entrepreneurship. David started his own blog YourFinances101 in 2009. His work has been featured in Investopedia, Business Insider, US News, and Money Crashers.
