Why People Around the U.S. Are Moving to Virginia

We all know that Virginia is a state that has a lot to offer, from its beautiful scenery and historical sites to its proximity to Washington, DC. However, some of us may have been wondering, where are all these out-of-towners coming from? Also, are they here to stay?

There are a few reasons people from all over the country are contacting landlords for a rental application in Virginia. Many Virginians are wondering if that will trend will continue or decline.

If you are someone from outside of Virginia, there are plenty of reasons for you to visit or even have a long stay in the Old Dominion State.

Where Are They Coming From?

With the rapid rise in living costs around the country, and more and more remote work available, young adults are frequently changing locations around the country. California, New York, North Carolina, Maryland, and Florida are the top five states people are moving away from to reside in Virginia.

While prices in Virginia are currently rising, they are nowhere near as high as prices for rent in some larger cities around the country. New York City, Los Angeles, Miami, and more are experiencing rent increases that make it nearly impossible to live.

Apart from rising costs around the country, there are still the classic reasons for attending college and nearby work opportunities. It’s not uncommon for North Carolina and Maryland residents to end up in Virginia.

Many others come from around the country (and the world) to attend college in Virginia.

What’s Attracting Out-of-State Residents to Virginia?

Apart from the economic positives, the Commonwealth of Virginia has a lot to offer, and out-of-state residents are taking note. The state’s natural beauty and historical significance draw people in, but its economic opportunities and quality of life keep them here. If you’re considering moving to Virginia, take a look at these reasons why it may be right for you.

Virginia is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in America—from the mountains in Shenandoah National Park to the beaches along Hampton Roads’ Eastern Shore. Plus, it has around 300 wineries where you can sip on some wine after a long day at work or school If hiking through nature is more your speed, there are plenty of trails throughout Northern Virginia.

Another important reason there are a lot more Virginians around nowadays is the fact that it is considered to be one of the safest state’s in the country. Virginia is considered by major news outlets to be part of the top 10 safest states.

That is especially true when it comes to violent crime, where it ranks well within the top 10 safest in that category.

Out-of-state college freshmen accounted for over 25% of students in Virginia during the 2021-2022 academic year. Hampton University had the highest number of out-of-state freshmen attendees, with over 88% being from outside of Virginia. 

Virginia’s Most Popular Locations

When it comes to the most popular places to live or visit in Virginia, there are a few that stand out from the crowd. Here are just a few of the most common destinations for residents or tourists who want to come to Virginia:

• Alexandria – A suburb of Washington, D.C., Alexandria is a great choice for anyone who wants to be close to major cities but still enjoy a quiet lifestyle with plenty of green spaces. The city also offers plenty of opportunities when it comes to entertainment and work, making it a great choice for young professionals looking for jobs in their field without having to commute long distances each day.
• Richmond – This city is Virginia’s capital and where the phrase “give me liberty or give me death” was spoken. It offers plenty of entertainment and interesting things to do for everyone.
• Williamsburg – This city is known for its historical appeal, including colonial Williamsburg, where many of the buildings still have original architecture dating back to when they were built. It’s also located near beaches and water activities, which makes it an ideal destination for anyone who loves to spend time outside.
• Virginia Beach – Located on the Atlantic Ocean, this city is known for being a popular destination for families looking to escape the heat of their hometowns. It has plenty of entertainment options including beaches, amusement parks, and more.

Virginia as a whole has a lot to offer, and with the rising cost of living in other states, it is becoming more attractive than ever before. If you are looking for a place with low taxes and good schools, then Virginia may be just what you are looking for.