If you’re looking for a place to call home, Virginia might have just what you need. With its scenic beaches and majestic Appalachian Mountains, it’s easy to see why this state is a popular choice for many. Virginia offers a diverse range of locations, entertainment options, and lifestyles. In this article, we’ll be highlighting ten of the safest and best places to live in Virginia. So, let’s dive in and explore what Virginia has to offer!
Safest Places to Live in Virginia
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- Purcellville
- Lexington
- Blacksburg
- Poquoson
- Manassas Park
- Herndon
- Leesburg
- Radford
- Warrenton
- Vienna
1. Purcellville
Purcellville, Virginia is considered one of the safest cities in the state, making it an ideal place to reside. Boasting a population of 8,200, Purcellville has a remarkably low crime rate of 467 per 100,000 residents, which is 72% lower than the state average. This peaceful town is a haven for local artists and outdoor enthusiasts alike, with its beautiful hiking trails and fantastic dining options. While the median home price in Purcellville may be slightly higher than the national average at $426,500, the town’s safety and serene atmosphere make it worth the investment.
2. Lexington
Living in Lexington, Virginia is not only affordable but also one of the safest places in the state. The city offers a perfect balance of security and low cost of living. With a crime rate of only 735 per 100,000, which is 69% lower than the national average, residents can enjoy peace of mind. Lexington is surrounded by George Washington & Jefferson National Forest, providing ample access to hiking trails. Additionally, the median home price in Lexington is just $230,500, which is 7% lower than the Virginia average, making it an excellent option for those looking for affordable living.
3. Blacksburg
Nestled in the picturesque Appalachian Mountains, Blacksburg has gained a reputation as one of the most desirable places to reside in Virginia. With a population of 43,973, the town boasts a low crime rate of 763 per 100,000, which is 67% safer than the national average. Blacksburg offers a plethora of hiking trails that are readily available for exploration. It is also home to Virginia Tech University, one of the leading academic institutions in the country, which contributes significantly to the city’s population.
4. Poquoson
Located along the coast near the Chesapeake Bay and within a short distance of Virginia Beach, Poquoson, or Bull Island, is a small town with a population of 12,460. Visitors can enjoy a day at the beach along with activities such as exploring the Island National Wildlife Refuge and visiting the Poquoson Museum. When it comes to safety, Poquoson has a low crime rate of 783 per 100,000, which is 66% lower than the US average.
5. Manassas Park
With a population of 17,772, Manassas Park is considered a safe city located in Virginia. It has a rich history in the Civil War as it houses the famous battlefields of Bull Run and Manassas. Moreover, the crime rate in Manassas Park stands at 863 per 100,000 people, which is impressively 63% lower than the national average. Visitors and residents alike also get to enjoy various shopping options in the area, including the Farmer’s Market and the Annual International Food Festival.
6. Herndon
With its close proximity to Arlington, Herndon is a charming city that boasts a population of 23,292 and is considered one of the safest cities in Virginia. The crime rate in Herndon is impressively low, at just 1,160 per 100,000, which is 51% lower than the national average and 30% lower than the state average. This picturesque suburb is home to numerous parks and clubs, making it an ideal place for outdoor enthusiasts. However, the median home price in Herndon is on the higher side at $401,700, which is 117% higher than the national average.
7. Leesburg
Located along the Potomac River, Leesburg is a safe and secure place to reside in Virginia with a population of 49,401. In fact, it is 49% safer than the average US city, making it one of the safest places to live. The residents here have a low risk of 1 in 84 of becoming a victim of any type of crime. Leesburg is popular among hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers, as it offers numerous hiking trails and parks, including the Rust Nature Sanctuary. Additionally, there is a dedicated app called the Tour Leesburg app for tourists, which provides information about the local attractions and their locations.
8. Radford
Radford, home to Radford University, exudes a youthful and secure atmosphere. The town, with a population of 16,000, boasts an impressively low crime rate of 1,306 per 100,000 individuals, which is 44% lower than the national average. Nestled between the peaks of the Appalachian Mountains, Radford houses five natural parks. Additionally, the town features a racetrack of its own, which hosts six diverse types of car racing.
9. Warrenton
Located in Fauquier County, Warrenton boasts a population of 10,027 and is steeped in Virginia’s state history. Its turn-of-the-century courthouse and jail are just a few of the many historical sites found here. Additionally, Warrenton is home to 11 Civil War sites, a winery, and the annual Warrenton Horse Show. With a crime rate of 1,326 per 100,000, Warrenton is 43% safer than the national average.
10. Vienna
Located in Fairfax County, Vienna is home to a population of 16,473. The crime rate in Vienna is impressively low, at 1,352 per 100,000, which is 42% lower than the national average in the US. The Potomac Appalachian Trail Club has made Vienna its headquarters, taking responsibility for the maintenance of the 2,000-mile trail. Vienna boasts a median home price of $662,200, well above the national average.
