Last updated 2026-06-12 ยท MovePlan Editorial Team
Deep history, four real seasons, and everything from DC careers to the coast.
1. Richmond: Best overall
2. Alexandria: Best for DC careers
3. Virginia Beach: Best coastal city
4. Charlottesville: Best college town
5. Arlington: Best for young professionals
6. Chesapeake: Best for families
7. Roanoke: Best mountain value
8. Blacksburg: Best small college town
9. Williamsburg: Best historic small town
Virginia spans a remarkable range, from the high-paying federal and tech jobs of the DC suburbs to historic college towns, mountain valleys, and a coastal metro. Four genuine seasons and strong schools draw families across the state. Here are the 9 best places to live in Virginia, ranked.