Moving to Virginia is a great decision for your family, as you’ll find a mix of historic charm, natural beauty, hiking trails, great schools and modern amenities. Here’s a guide to help you with your move, including costs and local recommendations.
1. Learn About Your Destination in Virginia
Virginia has diverse living environments that all could fit your family very well. I recommend doing a trial weekend in an airbnb to get a feel for the places and communities themselves.
- Northern Virginia: With bigger cities like Arlington and Alexandria, known for their proximity to Washington, D.C., you will have plenty of job opportunities but also expect a high cost of living.
- Richmond: The state capital with a great cultural scene, diverse population and more affordable housing compared to Northern Virginia. The commute to DC is longer though so take this into consideration if it matters for your job.
- Virginia Beach: Coastal living is at its finest, with many recreational opportunities and fun spots.
- Charlottesville: A party college town with a brilliant art scene and classic Virginia landscapes. It's a favourite for young families just starting out, as the prices seem to be a little lower.
- Roanoke: With its rural feel and access to outdoor activities in the Blue Ridge Mountains a favorite for families that want to get away from the hustle and bustle.
2. Housing Cost Approximations
Rent:
- 1-Bedroom Apartment: Expect to pay around $1,500 to $2,500 per month in Northern Virginia; $1,200 to $1,800 in Richmond: $1,000 to $1,800 in Virginia Beach.
- 2-Bedroom Apartment: $2,000 to $3,500 in Northern Virginia; $1,500 to $2,500 in Richmond; $1,200 to $2,200 in Virginia Beach.
To Buy Your Home:
- Median Home Prices: Homes are more affordable in Virginia than the surrounding states.
- Northern Virginia: $600,000 to $800,000.
- Richmond: $350,000 to $500,000.
- Virginia Beach: $350,000 to $500,000.
- Charlottesville: $400,000 to $600,000.
Utilities:
- Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage: $150 to $250 per month for an apartment all together.
- Internet: $50 to $100 per month as around the rest of the US.
3. Transportation
Car Costs:
You will need a car. While you do have some public transit options in my opinion it isn’t enough to get you around especially with kids.
- Gas: Approximately $3.50 to $4.00 per gallon.
- Insurance: $80 to $150 per month, depending on your driving record and car.
Public Transit:
- Northern Virginia: The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority runs all the buses and Metro services. Monthly passes cost between $80 to $150.
- Richmond: Greater Richmond Transit Company offers bus services. Monthly passes cost about $70.
- Virginia Beach: Hampton Roads Transit runs the local bus services. Monthly passes are around $60. This can be good for the kids to get to and from the beach or school alone.
- Parking: In urban areas like Northern Virginia, parking might cost $100 to $200 per month. In smaller cities, parking is usually cheaper or even free.
4. Cost of Living Averages
Depending on where you are moving to Virginia, you may feel you are getting huge savings or that prices are similar. Budget for any additional costs or savings to know the rest of your spending habits are in line.
Groceries:
- Monthly Grocery Bill: $300 to $500 for one person.
- Common Grocery Prices:
- Milk: $3.00 to $4.50 per gallon.
- Bread: $2.50 to $4.00.
- Eggs: $2.50 to $4.00 per dozen.
Eating Out:
- Basic Restaurant: $12 to $20 per meal per person.
- Mid-Range Restaurant: $25 to $50 per meal per person.
- Coffee Shop: $3.00 to $5.00 for a small coffee. Much cheaper than costal cities.
5. Weather
Overall in Virginia, winters can be cold with snow; summers are hot and humid. You get a taste for all four seasons.
- Central Virginia: More moderate temperatures with cold winters and hot summers.
- Southern and Coastal Virginia: Mild winters and hot and humid summers.
6. Education
- Childcare Prices: Are considered on the lower side here in Virginia with high quality of care.
- Full-Time Daycare: $1,000 to $1,800 per month per child.
- Preschool: $800 to $1,500 per month.
- Public Schools: Are always free, but there are costs for extracurricular activities and supplies. The public school system here is seen as a great option with good teachers.
- Private Schools: $10,000 to $30,000 per year. This is pretty average around the US or on the lower side of pricing.
7. Entertainment Approximate Costs
- Basic Gym: $30 to $60 per month.
- Premium Fitness Club: $70 to $150 per month.
- Concerts/Sports Events: $30 to $100 per ticket, depending on the event and seating. Virginia gets some top name concerts.
- Haircut: $20 to $50 for a standard cut.
- Clothing: Prices vary. Expect to spend $50 to $100 on casual clothes and more for specialty or designer items.
- Basic Home Repairs: Costs vary. Budget $100 to $300 for minor repairs.
8. Taxes: Always a Fun Subject
- Sales Tax: 5.3% state sales tax, with localities adding up to 1% more. In Northern Virginia, the total can be up to 6.0%. Many people travel here to buy expensive electronics or to DC to save on the sales tax.
- Income Tax: Virginia has a progressive income tax system with rates ranging from 2% to 5.75%, based on income levels.
