Virginia Beach, Virginia

What's the cost of living in Virginia Beach, VA?

The overall cost of living in and around Virginia Beach falls in line with the national average. Groceries and transportation costs run below what the average American pays, while utilities, health care, housing and other miscellaneous goods and services run higher than in other major metro areas. However, while some industries (such as production and manufacturing) offer above-average salaries, area residents tend to make less than the average American.

What's the best way to get around Virginia Beach, VA?

Hampton Roads residents can reach quite a few places on bike or by foot. Still, most residents rely on their cars to get around, and traffic in the area's tunnels and on the Interstate 64 and 664 corridors isn't uncommon.  

Hampton Roads Transit offers a wide variety of mass transit options including buses, ferries, trolleys and other shuttle services to almost all of the major points of interest. VB Wave is an affordable hybrid-electric trolley system that makes daily (seasonal) shuttle runs along Atlantic Avenue in Virginia Beach.

The Norfolk International Airport and the Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport offer daily flights to destinations around the country, including New York City, Chicago and Atlanta. Amtrak and Greyhound both service the area as well.

Who lives in Virginia Beach, VA?

Although Virginia Beach and the Hampton Roads area have one of the highest percentages of millennials of any metro area in the country, people of any age group will feel at home in this friendly city. The area's low levels of crime, desirable weather and lower-than-average tax rates also make the region attractive for retirees, as those 65 and older make up roughly 13 percent of the population.

The Virginia Beach metro area is home to nine military installations, and a fair percentage of the population is active-duty military, retirees, dependents and civilian military employees.

The majority of Hampton Roads residents do not identify with a particular religion, but Evangelical Protestants and Catholics make up the largest portion of those who do.

What is there to do in Virginia Beach, VA?

With its impressive over 38-mile coastline, Virginia Beach provides residents a choice of three clean and easily accessible family- and pet-friendly beaches.

The Hampton Roads area also boasts cultural attractions such as the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art and the Virginia Aquarium. Shoppers visit the Virginia Beach Boardwalk, as well as The Shops at Hilltop, Town Center and Lynnhaven Mall.

In general, residents are outdoorsy and enjoy horseback riding, fishing, kayaking, waterskiing and stand-up paddleboarding during almost any season. Sporting events like the East Coast Surfing Championship and North American Sand Soccer Championship bring the community together and shine a national spotlight on the area. Nature and sports enthusiasts enjoy dozens of hiking, cycling and jogging trails, while skateboarders and BMX bike riders have access to three skate parks.