A Guide to 55+ Active Living Communities in Virginia

 

Immerse Yourself in History and the Great Outdoors in Virginia 

Early European colonists had the right idea when settling in modern-day Virginia, home of one of the first English settlements in America. The state is still an outstanding place to retire, especially for seniors who appreciate natural beauty, historic sites, and engaging outdoor activities.

Like nearby Washington, D.C., Virginia is filled with history! The state is an appealing location for downsizing empty nesters interested in learning about America’s wartime history and its early colonial period. There are war reenactments and living museums alongside historic sites, monuments, memorabilia, and art galleries.

As a coastal state, Virginia offers residents access to beaches and waterfront properties around the state’s lakes and rivers. The terrain varies from mountainous areas to acres of flat farmland, though you’ll also find pinelands and forests.

Virginia’s weather is equally diverse, with warm summers and colder winters. The state experiences all four seasons throughout the year.

Virginia’s national parks and natural lands are a big draw for active seniors, especially those who enjoy hiking. If you’re looking for adventurous outdoor activities, try wildlife and landscape photography, canoeing, fishing, camping, biking, or walking pet-friendly trails.

 

The Regions of Virginia

Virginia offers retirees an incredible variety, from mountains and lakes to farmlands and cities. Each region has something unique and appealing for its residents.

Northern Virginia

Northern Virginia has many upscale neighborhoods, with shopping malls filled with luxury brands and fine dining. It’s also known for high-class entertainment like golf courses, horse races, dressage shows, and polo matches.

Popular neighborhoods in Northern Virginia for 55+ retirees include Stafford, Locust Grove, Fredericksburg, Haymarket, Sterling, Woodbridge, and Ashburn.

Piedmont

Where Northern Virginia is more urban, Piedmont is significantly more rural, with many woodlands, river valleys, farmland, and pinelands perfect for hiking and birdwatching.

Towns like Ruckersville, Palmyra, and Keswick have communities located amidst nature with stunning scenic views.

Shenandoah Valley

In the northwestern regions of Virginia, you’ll find the Shenandoah Valley. Towns like Lake Frederick offer a perfect balance of natural majesty in Shenandoah National Park and opportunities for seniors to learn about local history.

Much of the area is less than two hours from Washington, D.C., and features wineries, horseback riding, nature tours, canoeing, and more.

Southwest Virginia

Cities in Virginia’s Southwest region, like Roanoke, have a more rugged and mountainous vibe, perfect for 55+ nature lovers who still want to be close to a city. The area offers a feel described as a “creative landscape,” featuring outdoor activities, arts and crafts, music, and even agritourism.

Southwest Virginia is often regarded as the birthplace of country music, and the area’s artisan spirit runs deep.

Southside

Southside in Virginia is best known for its farmland, as it was previously the site of many tobacco plantations. Today, it’s more of a college area with history and a quaint charm.

Suburbs like Danville offer 55+ active adult entertainment options such as live music, theater, art, and more!

Richmond/Central Virginia

History lovers adore Richmond/Central Virginia, which was the capital of the Confederacy during the Civil War and, as a result, has a vast array of memorabilia and historic sites.

Neighborhoods, including New Kent and Chesterfield, have history and art museums, natural beauty, and tasty brunch spots!

Tidewater/Hampton Roads

Virginia’s Tidewater/Hampton Roads area lies along the Atlantic Ocean and the Chesapeake Bay. The area has incredible seafood restaurants and is home to a few military bases.

Locations like Williamsburg and Gloucester are popular with seniors who love American history, and there’s a thriving agricultural industry here as well.

 

How to Spend Your Time During Retirement in Virginia

If you want to stay active as you age, Virginia is the place to be, with plenty of on-property and off-property things to do to stay fit and healthy!

Virginia is beloved for its natural vistas and is a paradise for outdoorsy retirees looking to stay active. Hike through parks teeming with animals and plant life, or stroll around a local grassy square with easy access to shops and restaurants.

Virginia is a significant historical destination, with close ties to the founding of America and the Revolutionary and Civil Wars. Learn about the history of Old Dominion and experience how the past still affects the present.

Explore Activities On 55+ Community Properties

Virginia’s 55+ active adult communities offer their residents a wealth of things to do without going far from their homes. Right on the premises, you’ll find various ways to spend your time, whether socializing with your neighbors or getting active at the clubhouse or on-site gym.

Stay Healthy with Indoor and Outdoor Fitness

Virginia’s natural beauty and well-appointed communities offer many ways to stay active inside and outside. Use exercise equipment and fitness rooms for yoga or try sports like tennis and pickleball. Some communities even have indoor and outdoor pools.

Outdoor on-property fitness options for seniors in Virginia include community walking trails, outdoor sports courts, and fitness classes.

Live a Low-Maintenance Retirement

Many 55+ active adult communities include lawn care and snow removal during winter. While the state experiences average rainfall and some snow in the winter, master-planned communities designed with seniors in mind require less time doing chores and allow for more time to retire!  

Visit with Neighbors at the Community Clubhouse

Community centers offer active seniors fun and games without having to leave the property!

Clubhouses often have various board games and TVs and host hobbyist groups like sewing and book clubs. Others have recreational equipment, tennis courts, pickleball courts, and more, so you can stay active alongside like-minded community residents.

Nearby Activities and Fun Things to Do

Virginia is a perfect match for seniors looking to experience life to the fullest by staying active as they age!

The state offers retirees off-property parks showcasing Virginia’s natural beauty, museums filled with stories about its past, and casinos where you can win big!

Go Hiking

Virginia has many sunny days that are excellent for hiking. Fall colors usually peak in mid-October, offering active retirees visiting one of Virginia’s many parks and nature preserves a picture-perfect experience.

Virginia is also an exceptional location for viewing local wildlife or birdwatching, so bring a camera and binoculars! Notable hiking spots with scenic views include Shenandoah National Park, Old Rag Mountain, and the Appalachian Trail.

Immerse Yourself in History

Virginia, often called ‘the birthplace of the nation,’ is the site of one of the earliest colonial settlements from European explorers. The state has a storied history filled with Native American tribes, military conflicts, developments, and more. Seniors can learn about this history at museums and other historical points of interest throughout the state.

Visit the modern-day location of Jamestown, watch a Civil War reenactment, and step back in time at Colonial Williamsburg.

Visit Virginia’s Beaches

Spend the summer during your retirement relaxing along the Atlantic Ocean coast or swim in the calm, temperate waters of the Chesapeake Bay.

Whether you head to Virginia Beach or one of the many other coastal areas, picturesque shores are plentiful! 55+ active adults don’t have to own oceanfront property to sunbathe, walk along the shore, or play beach volleyball.

 

There’s Lots to Love About Virginia

Virginia is a famous state to retire for 55+ seniors looking for ways to stay active healthy, and to make the most of retirement!

The state is a hub of history and early American culture, with many historic sites that harken back to the country's founding. Its proximity to Washington, D.C., makes it easy to visit landmarks, memorials, and museums, whether planning a vacation or just a day trip.

Virginia also has many areas that feel rural but are still close to city centers. Empty nesters looking to downsize and live simply can enjoy the benefits of privacy and low-cost housing while enjoying easy access to dining, shopping, and entertainment.

Virginia may be for lovers, but it’s also a fantastic choice for retirees!

 

55+ Communities to Choose From in Virginia

No matter what kind of new home you’re seeking for retirement, you will find something fitting your preferences and budget in Virginia!

The state has housing options for seniors ranging from budget-friendly rural communities to high-end luxury residences with ready access to modern urban amenities.

Check out Virginia’s 55+ communities designed with active adults in mind, or explore community options for all ages.

Golf Course Communities

Virginia’s large fields of flat, undeveloped land and regular rainfall make it an ideal state for golf courses. Unsurprisingly, golf course communities, perfect for retirees, have popped up nationwide!

These communities typically cater to 55+ empty nesters, some age-restricted communities, while others simply attract a senior-aged crowd. The best golf course communities offer greens, driving ranges, and top-tier amenities like onsite dining.

Manufactured Homes Communities

If you’re looking for an affordable home with amenities suitable for active 55+ residents, check out Virginia’s manufactured homes communities.

These residences, also known as mobile home communities, offer a kind of freedom you won’t find with other types of housing. Costing less than traditional home options and often located in age-restricted communities, manufactured homes can be found in Virginia’s most scenic woodland locations.

Luxury Apartment Rentals

Are you seeking a place to retire that feels a little more upscale? Consider a luxury apartment rental with top-quality amenities, spacious accommodations, and unparalleled service for tenants.

Many luxury rentals for seniors in Virginia have community areas complete with state-of-the-art fitness equipment, and some even host daily workout classes. Apartments often come with covered parking, luxury pools, elevators to upper-floor units, an array of floor plans, and private balconies or patios.

Condominium Communities

Virginia’s condominium (condo) communities offer seniors a sense of community and access to shared recreation equipment and on-site pools while allowing residents to own their units.

They’re an excellent choice for 55+ retirees who want the benefits of home ownership with less hassle, thanks to HOAs that cover yard work and exterior maintenance services.

Virginia’s premier condo communities are also waterfront communities along the ocean, bay, or lakeside.

 

Expenses and Costs of Living

Virginia’s cost of living for retirees is average overall, with highly affordable options available in the state’s more rural areas. Virginia offers a variety of active adult communities, rentals, and other living arrangements suitable to just about any budget.

As a retiree, it’s important to note that Social Security benefits aren’t taxed in Virginia, and pension payouts are tax-deductible up to $12,000, so the tax burden is very low for seniors.

All considered, Virginia can be a very financially-friendly state for retirement. More expensive areas are rare, and the cost is typically balanced out by better access to attractions such as fine dining and high-end shopping districts alongside beautiful nature preserves and parks.

 

Virginia Health Services

Seniors can find high-quality healthcare facilities in Virginia, whether they require a general practitioner, a specialist, emergency care, or chronic condition management. The state has acclaimed health centers like Bon Secours and VCU Health.

Additionally, healthcare costs are cheaper compared to what you’ll find in some other states. However, those needing financial assistance can still use Medicare, Medicaid, and programs like the Virginia Health Care Foundation.