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In recent years, Virginia has been quietly gaining ground as a top contender for retirees looking for an affordable and comfortable place to spend their retirement years. With lower cost of living, mild climate, and rich cultural history, it is no wonder that Virginia is giving Florida a run for its money as the best retirement state in the country.
In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the pros and cons of retiring in Virginia, how much it may cost, and some of the best places to retire in the state. In addition, we will explore the top retirement communities in Virginia. So, without any further ado, let’s take a look at what makes the “Old Dominion” such an ideal place to retire!
Retiring in Virginia: pros and cons
Retiring in Virginia can be a great choice for many seniors, but like any state, it has its unique set of advantages and disadvantages to consider. Here are some of the pros and cons of retiring in Virginia:
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How much would it cost to retire in Virginia?
The cost of retiring in Virginia can vary widely based on factors such as location, housing costs, healthcare needs, and lifestyle choices. That said, the estimated retirement cost in Virginia is $1,140,824, slightly higher than the national average. Besides, it is good to note that the state imposes a 5.75% income tax and a flat 6% corporate income tax rate. However, Virginia’s housing cost has been low compared to some other states, which helps seniors on fixed incomes.
Best places to live in Virginia for retirees
Virginia has many great places for retirees to live, each with its own unique character and attractions. Here are a few of the best places to live in Virginia for retirees:
1. Charlottesville
Located in the heart of Virginia’s wine country, Charlottesville is a charming small town with a rich history and culture. It is home to the University of Virginia, as well as numerous museums, galleries, and performance venues. Housing costs in Charlottesville are higher than the state average, but the town’s many amenities make it a popular choice for retirees.
2. Williamsburg
Known for its historic sites and museums, Williamsburg is a popular destination for retirees who are interested in American history. The town is also home to numerous golf courses and other recreational opportunities, as well as a range of housing options, from historic homes to newer developments.
3. Roanoke
Located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Roanoke is a vibrant city with a thriving arts and culture scene. It offers easy access to outdoor activities like hiking and fishing, as well as a range of housing options, from urban apartments to suburban homes.
4. Virginia Beach
For retirees who are looking for a coastal lifestyle, Virginia Beach is a great option. It offers miles of sandy beaches, as well as numerous shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Housing costs in Virginia Beach are higher than the state average, but the town’s many amenities make it a popular destination for retirees.
5. Richmond
Virginia’s capital city, Richmond, offers a mix of urban and suburban living, with a range of housing options and a thriving arts and culture scene. It is home to numerous museums, galleries, performance venues, and a range of outdoor recreational opportunities.
What are the best places to retire in West Virginia?
West Virginia is a state with beautiful natural scenery, a low cost of living, and a relatively mild climate. Here are some of the best places to retire in West Virginia:
- Morgantown: This college town is known for its lively downtown area, beautiful parks, and proximity to outdoor recreation opportunities.
- Lewisburg: This small town has a charming downtown area with boutique shops and restaurants, as well as access to nearby hiking trails and scenic drives.
- Shepherdstown: This historic town is home to Shepherd University and has a lively arts scene, with galleries and theaters showcasing local talent.
- Charleston: The capital city of West Virginia has a low cost of living, a beautiful riverfront district, and a variety of cultural attractions, including museums and music venues.
- Wheeling: This riverfront city has a rich history and a variety of cultural attractions, including the Wheeling Symphony Orchestra and the Oglebay Resort and Conference Center.
Other notable places to retire in West Virginia include Berkeley Springs, Harpers Ferry, Parkersburg, and Beckley.
Top retirement communities in Virginia
Virginia is home to some of the best retirement communities in the country, offering a range of living options, amenities, and services to meet the needs of seniors. Whether you’re looking for a luxury retirement community with resort-style amenities or a more affordable option with personalized care, a retirement community in Virginia is right for you. Here are our top picks:
1. Brookdale Lake Ridge
Brookdale Lake Ridge is a top-rated senior living facility located in Woodbridge, Virginia. The facility provides multiple services for seniors, including assisted living, independent living, memory care, and skilled nursing care. They are staffed by trained professionals who are committed to providing person-centered care and support. Brookdale Lake Ridge offers restaurant-style dining, exercise programs, art classes, and other brain-stimulating activities, among many other amenities.
2. The Colonnades at Charlottesville
The Colonnades at Charlottesville is an affordable retirement community in Virginia. Set in a 59-acre campus, this Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) provides a secure, structured environment with trained staff who are available 24/7 to provide personalized care and support. In addition, the community has a packed activities calendar, gourmet meal options, and on-site amenities such as pools, salons, and community garden.
3. Commonwealth Senior Living At Williamsburg
Commonwealth Senior Living at Williamsburg offers assisted living, independent living, memory care, and short-term respite care to its residents. The facility provides customized care, and support for seniors who need help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and medication management. Their respite care program is designed to provide caregivers with a break while ensuring that their loved one receives the care and support, they need. On top of that, Commonwealth Senior Living at Williamsburg is a pet-friendly community, so older adults can bring their furry friends along!
4. Harmony at Independence – Virginia Beach
Harmony at Independence is another excellent retirement community located in Virginia Beach. They offer independent living, assisted living, and memory care services to seniors. The facility emphasizes on providing an active and independent lifestyle while receiving assistance with daily activities to its residents. It has a range of amenities, including restaurant-style dining, a beauty/barber shop, a library, a fitness center, and outdoor spaces for gardening and walking.
5. Discovery Village at the West End
If you are looking for affordable retirement communities in Virginia, then Discovery Village at the West End is for you. Located in Richmond, Virginia, this 55+ community allows seniors to maintain an active and independent lifestyle while enjoying the benefits of community living. It offers three nutritious meals a day, fitness classes, outdoor spaces, and 24/7 emergency services, among many other amenities.
6. The Waterford at Virginia Beach
The Waterford at Virginia Beach is another great choice for seniors looking for retirement communities at Virginia Beach. The facility offers senior living options such as independent living, assisted living, memory care, and short-term stay. Apart from 24/7 care and support, the community strives to ensure a home-like atmosphere with several activity programs, garden clubs, education and recreation projects, coffee rooms, and more.
7. The Park Oak Grove
The Park Oak Grove in Virginia is a luxury retirement community located in Roanoke, Virginia. Their services include independent living, assisted living, memory care, rehabilitation services, and skilled nursing care. The community offers a range of amenities, including 24-hour emergency maintenance, dining options, warm-water pools, wellness classes, and many more.
Final thoughts
As we wrap up our exploration of the top retirement communities in Virginia, it’s clear that the state offers a wealth of options for seniors looking to enjoy their golden years in comfort and style. From luxury communities with resort-style amenities to more affordable options with personalized care, there’s something for everyone in Virginia.
We hope this overview of Virginia’s top retirement communities has been helpful and informative. But these are just a few examples of the many excellent options available throughout the state. It is always recommended to do your research and take the time to visit communities in person. If you need assistance finding senior living facilities near you, call us today to book a free consultation.
FAQs
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- What is the tax rate on retirement income in Virginia?
According to SmartAssets, Virginia has a progressive income tax system with around 2% to 5.75% tax rate. However, some retirement incomes aren’t taxed in the state, for example, Social Security benefits. Besides, Virginia also offers additional tax breaks for seniors who are 65 or older.
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- What is the retirement age in Virginia?
The retirement age in Virginia is not set by state law. Instead, retirement age is determined by individual employers and retirement plans. However, the most common retirement age in Virginia is 65, which is also the age at which individuals become eligible for Medicare. In addition, Social Security benefits can be claimed as early as age 62.
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- Is military retirement pay taxable in Virginia?
In Virginia, military retirees who are 55 years of age or older and receiving military retired pay can make use of a graduated income subtraction. For the tax year 2022, such residents can subtract $10,000 from their Virginia taxable income.
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- Is West Virginia a good state to retire in?
West Virginia can be a good state to retire in for several factors. That includes:
- West Virginia Has top-notch healthcare system
- It has a rich cultural history
- It has a lower crime rate
- Has a relatively low cost of living
- Is known for its scenic beauty
