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If you are looking for a state that is rich with history, natural beauty, and diverse terrains, Virginia might be your answer. This Southern state is where the story of Chesapeake Bay unfolds, and the love story of Pocahontas and John Smith flourish. It is nicknamed the “Old Dominion” and at times referred to as the “Mother of Presidents” with 8 US presidents having been born here. For active adults choosing a state for retirement, Virginia can be a thrilling experience. There are so many things happening in Virginia that you are unlikely to miss the State that you left behind. Here is some related information on this state that you may need to know in order to make the right decision.

Some Facts about Virginia

Virginia is a popular state with many famous people being born here, including 8 US presidents. If you live in Virginia, you can say you come from the land of the likes of Warren Beatty, Ella Fitzgerald, and Moses Malone. Famous people aside, there are other worthwhile facts that you ought to know about the place you may be considering for senior living in your 55+ age.

Geography – Virginia is in the South Atlantic Region of the United States. It is the 35^th largest state in terms of land area and is bordered by North Carolina, West Virginia, Washington DC, Maryland, Kentucky, and Tennessee. Virginia is also blessed with a coastline that borders the Atlantic Ocean.

Flora and Fauna – 65% of the state are covered with forests. You will see many tulip poplars, chestnut, and maple, as well as, a wide array of ferns. Fauna includes the eastern cottontail rabbit, gray and red foxes, white-tailed deer, coyote, bobcat, and raccoon. Bald eagles, white turkeys, and brown pelicans are extremely common sights in Virginia. There are more than 210 species of freshwater fish and rocky bottom brooks full of crayfish and salamanders.

Climate – Virginia has five different climate regions. Southern and eastern Virginia experiences mostly humid and warm weather. On average, there are approximately 205 sunny days per year in Virginia. It can get a bit cold in the winter months with some significant snowfall in the mountain areas. February is considered the coldest month of the year.

Economy – Virginia has diverse sources of income. These range from farming, military, business, etc. The unemployment rate is at its lowest in Virginia recording 5.6% as of March 2012. Property taxes are set and collected at local government level and vary accordingly through the Commonwealth.

What to Do in Virginia

Virginia offers you a myriad of things to do and see. For example, for nature lovers and outdoor types, there are 35 parks in Virginia. These parks are ideal for camping, cabin stays and within these parks, you will find more than 500 nature trails. There is a wide range of fishing opportunities that include trout streams and ponds, small lakes and reservoirs. Golf is something you should not miss out on when in Virginia, as you will find some of the best resort golf courses here. You can experience great beauty and geographic diversity if you consider Virginia for golf. Virginia also has a number of beautiful and well-maintained beaches. You have to take a walk down the 3-mile oceanfront Boardwalk where you will find many hotels and restaurants all overlooking the Atlantic. There are many art shows and festivals almost every weekend here that will keep art lovers well occupied. Seniors who are into nature can spend the day at the First Landing State Park. There are also cycling trails or one admires the array of animals at the 8,000 acres Back-Bay National Wildlife Refuge.

These are just a small fraction of the things that one can see and do in Virginia. However, we believe it should suffice to get you to make your mind up about a move to Virginia during your retirement years. If you are interested, check outActiveAdultLiving.com and find out more on what Virginia has in store for you. There are over 150 Virginia communities (including 55+ age-restricted, as well as age-appropriate active lifestyle communities) that can offer you nothing short of blissful senior living. Visit these community pages active adult communities can offer for you.

Birchwood at Brambleton – Brambleton, VA
Trilogy® at Lake Frederick by Shea Homes – Lake Frederick, VA
Regency at Dominion Valley by Toll Brothers – Haymarket, VA
The Evergreens at Smith Run – Fredericksburg, VA
The Crest of Alexandria – Alexandria, VA

Before you decide on the community you wish to settle in, decide on the lifestyle you wish to live your beautiful 2^nd youth. Ascertain the budget you are comfortable in spending and then start your search based on these criteria. The ActiveAdultLiving.Com Virginia State directory page allows you to find the perfect community that fits your needs and preferences as well as the budget.