Virginia Towns and Cities That Make Ideal Homes for Families

Virginia is an East Coast state with much to offer, from its sandy beaches to its historical locations. It is a scenic state that provides culture, natural appeal, and a powerful economy, making it alluring to a variety of people. There are plenty of desirable towns and cities for families, with high safety ratings, family-friendly attractions, and excellent schools. Let’s look at some of these popular options.

Virginia Beach, famed for its soft-sand Atlantic beaches and stellar surf, is a dream home option for families that love living by the coast. This major city is home to around 460,000 and is the biggest in the state. It has many family-friendly attractions, notably the 3-mile-long Virginia Beach Boardwalk, a bustling hub throughout the summer, and the famed Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center. 

Suffolk is a big city with a small-town feel, home to around 95,000 residents. It boasts strong safety ratings, excellent schools, and many family-friendly activities. Suffolk has top-notch art and history museums, including the Phillips-Dawson House, headquarters of the Suffolk-Nansemond Historical Society. It also has ample fishing and swimming options along Lake Meade and plenty of parks.

Lynchburg is a thriving city home to around 80,000. It is a short drive from the Blue Ridge Mountains and is notable for its history and many family-friendly activities. Lynchburg has many preserved homes and buildings open for visitors, including the nearby Poplar Forest, which was once Thomas Jefferson’s private retreat. Amazement Square is a hands-on children’s museum that is a blast for all ages. Lynchburg also has a delectable food scene that includes many family-friendly restaurants.

Staunton is a peaceful little town that is home to around 25,000. This quiet, laid-back community is ideal for families seeking a safe and affordable home. Staunton has a strong school system and many family-friendly entertainment options. There is also a thriving theater and live music scene, as well as plenty of parks and green spaces to explore. 

Hampton is one of the bigger cities in Virginia. It a scenic metropolis on the water that is home to around 138,000. It is a busy city with much for families to enjoy with its renowned festivals, museums, and bustling downtown. Hampton is home to the Virginia Air and Space Center; the Hampton Coliseum, a multipurpose entertainment arena; and a thriving arts district, which includes The American Theatre. Its location on the water makes it ideal for families to enjoy fishing and boating.

Norfolk is a major city located just across the water from Hampton, home to around 235,000. With a picturesque waterfront location, it is a beautiful place to make a home. Real estate prices in Norfolk are mostly affordable, and it has numerous family-friendly attractions, including the Virginia Zoo and the Nauticus, a maritime discovery center and museum. Norfolk has more than 125 miles of navigable waterways, making it a hub for boaters and fishers.

Manassas is a town in Northern Virginia famous for its many historical attractions. It was the site of pivotal battles in the Civil War, and museums and monuments throughout the town showcase its history. Old Town Manassas is a quaint national historic district with plenty to explore. This town, with a population of around 43,000, a low crime rate, and top-notch education options, makes for an appealing place for families.