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Virginia PROs & CONs

Northern Virginia is basically an extension of Washington DC. Arlington and Alexandria are built up, offer ample job opportunities, lots of culture and diversity, great food and entertainment.

On the political spectrum, most folks moving to Virginia’s northern region lean democrat.

Central Virginia is anchored by the city’s capital, Richmond. An affordable city with a population of 224,000. Richmond has a charming small town feel yet offers big city amenities like great cuisines, entertainment and jobs. This part of the state is a 2 hours’ drive from the beach, mountains and big cities (like DC), making weekend escapes an easy feat. Political leanings are right/moderate.

Eastern Virginia is calm most of the year but Virginia Beach and Williamsburg are huge draws during the summer months. Home to nearly 500,000 residents, Virginia Beach is the most populous city in Virginia. The area has beautiful coastlines, unmatched colonial history and overall peaceful vibes. In terms of politics, eastern Virginia tends to lean right.

PROS:

1. Virginia Medicare Advantage insurance adequately covers cost of needed pain management prescriptions.

2. Virginia has one of the lowest crime rates of any state in the country. Virginia is rated as the 13th safest state in the country. Some locals attribute this to the strong military presence in the state. Virginia is home to a plethora of bases, and you’re bound to see folks in uniform most days of the week.

Fort Belvoir

3. Virginia is a great place to get basic medical treatment. Some of the country’s top medical facilities are located in Virginia, with a history of providing the latest technology and state-of-the-art treatments to individuals who need them.

University of Virginia Medical Center

4. Virginians tend to be friendly folks, much aligned with the southern hospitality this part of the world is known for. The state is full of warm people that have been instrumental in making me feel welcomed.

5. Virginia has one of America’s best food products — country ham.

And the unofficial state dish, Brunswick Stew, especially when it’s made the “authentic” way with squirrels.

6. The state’s scenery is stunning, especially in the fall when the foliage is ablaze with color. The northwest region of the state is the most scenic and the coastline is very beautiful.

7. Fourth best air quality

8. Virginia has some of the best public schools in the country. However, materials covered may be more advanced than the national average.

9. Proximity to Washington DC offers a thriving job market that draws people from all over the world. The city’s incredible food scene, top notch museums and world-class events that host once-in-a-lifetime speakers like presidents and diplomats.

Smithsonian National History + Air Space Museum

10. Important Historical Sites to Explore. Like the homes of US Presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, William Henry Harrison, James Monroe and Woodrow Wilson.

George Washington’s Mt Vernon

CONS:

1. High cost of living

2. Nightmarish Traffic.

3. Terrible Drivers. Aggressive driving habits are one of the worst things about living in Virginia.

4. Challenging state for seasonal allergies. Being trapped between the mountains and the ocean creates ideal conditions for allergies, especially during summer due to high pollen count.

5. Summer heat and humidity. The average humidity of 68.7% is especially bad for homeowners because it causes mold, especially in basements.

6. Lots of public official corruption (only 5 states are worse).

7. Virginia is known for having an issue with noise pollution.

8. Has legalized recreational marijuana (also known as cannabis). Marijuana is intoxicating, causing behavioral changes and potential long-term negative health effects.