Salary, Cost of Living & Best Neighborhoods in Virginia Beach, VA
Virginia Beach, VA
Salary And Cost Of Living In Virginia Beach VA
Virginia Beach, VA, is one of the most desirable coastal cities on the East Coast, known for its beaches, military presence, and growing business community. For professionals and families considering a move, understanding the salary levels, cost of living, housing market, neighborhoods, and schools in Virginia Beach, VA is essential for making an informed decision. The following guide provides a comprehensive overview, optimized for those researching relocation or employment opportunities in the area.
Average Salary In Virginia Beach VA
When evaluating a move to Virginia Beach, VA, it is important to compare local earnings to living expenses. Overall, the city offers competitive pay in many sectors, especially in military-related industries, healthcare, technology, and tourism.
Average salary in Virginia Beach, VA varies by industry, experience, and education level, but many workers find the compensation attractive when balanced with the region’s quality of life.
Below is an illustrative comparison of typical annual salaries for common roles in Virginia Beach, VA:
| Job Title (Virginia Beach, VA) | Estimated Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Registered Nurse | $70,000 – $82,000 |
| Software Developer | $80,000 – $100,000 |
| Public School Teacher | $52,000 – $65,000 |
| Military Contractor/Analyst | $75,000 – $95,000 |
| Hospitality/Hotel Manager | $55,000 – $70,000 |
| Administrative Assistant | $38,000 – $48,000 |
While salaries in Virginia Beach, VA, may be slightly lower than in major metropolitan areas like Washington, DC or New York City, the city compensates with a more manageable cost of living, shorter commutes in many areas, and a high quality of life near the ocean.
Cost Of Living In Virginia Beach VA
The overall cost of living in Virginia Beach, VA is generally considered moderate compared to other coastal cities in the United States. Housing costs are the largest expense for most residents, but daily necessities such as groceries, utilities, and transportation remain fairly reasonable.
The following table provides a snapshot of typical monthly expenses for an individual or small family in Virginia Beach, VA. These figures are illustrative and may vary by lifestyle and neighborhood.
| Expense Category (Virginia Beach, VA) | Estimated Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Rent (1-Bedroom Apartment) | $1,300 – $1,650 |
| Utilities (Electric, Water, Trash, Internet) | $200 – $300 |
| Groceries | $350 – $550 |
| Transportation (Gas, Insurance, Local Transit) | $200 – $350 |
| Healthcare (Out-of-Pocket) | $100 – $250 |
| Entertainment & Dining Out | $150 – $300 |
By national standards, Virginia Beach, VA offers a balanced cost of living, particularly attractive for households seeking coastal amenities without the premium pricing found in many larger seaside markets. Additionally, Virginia’s state income tax rates are moderate, which helps many residents maintain a comfortable standard of living.
Average Home Values And Rents In Virginia Beach VA
Real estate in Virginia Beach, VA, is diverse, ranging from oceanfront condos to suburban single-family homes and townhomes near military installations or business centers. The housing market has remained relatively strong, reflecting continued demand for homes in this popular coastal city.
The following chart-style table summarizes typical home prices and rents in Virginia Beach, VA across several property types:
| Property Type (Virginia Beach, VA) | Estimated Price or Rent Range |
|---|---|
| Single-Family Home (Median Purchase Price) | $380,000 – $450,000 |
| Townhome/Condo (Purchase Price) | $260,000 – $360,000 |
| Luxury or Waterfront Home | $700,000 – $1,500,000+ |
| 1-Bedroom Apartment (Monthly Rent) | $1,300 – $1,650 |
| 2-Bedroom Apartment (Monthly Rent) | $1,600 – $2,000 |
| Single-Family Rental Home (Monthly Rent) | $2,000 – $2,800 |
Homebuyers in Virginia Beach, VA, will find that prices can vary significantly depending on proximity to the oceanfront, quality of local schools, and age of the home. Renters have a broad selection, from modern apartments near Town Center to quieter communities further inland.
Best Neighborhoods In Virginia Beach VA
Choosing the right neighborhood is just as important as understanding salary and cost of living. Virginia Beach, VA, offers a variety of communities suited to different lifestyles, from young professionals and military families to retirees.
Below is an overview of several popular neighborhoods in Virginia Beach, VA and what makes each area appealing:
| Neighborhood (Virginia Beach, VA) | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Great Neck | Established area with strong schools, mature trees, and quick access to the Chesapeake Bay and oceanfront; popular with families and professionals. |
| Hilltop | Central location close to shopping, dining, and major roadways; convenient for commuters with a mix of townhomes, condos, and single-family homes. |
| Kempsville | Large suburban area with a variety of housing styles and price points; good access to Norfolk and the rest of Hampton Roads. |
| Red Mill | Family-friendly community in southern Virginia Beach with newer homes, shopping centers, and proximity to Sandbridge and bases like Oceana. |
| Oceanfront & North End | Coastal living steps from the beach, boardwalk, and nightlife; mix of condos, cottages, and luxury homes with a more urban, resort-style feel. |
| Chesapeake Bay/Chic’s Beach | Relaxed, beach-town atmosphere along the Chesapeake Bay; popular for those seeking water access without the busier oceanfront vibe. |
Many residents choose neighborhoods in Virginia Beach, VA, based on a combination of commute time, school quality, and proximity to recreational amenities such as beaches, parks, and shopping districts.
Schools And Education In Virginia Beach VA
For families considering a move, schools in Virginia Beach, VA are a major factor. Virginia Beach City Public Schools is one of the largest school divisions in the Commonwealth and is frequently recognized for academic achievement, specialty programs, and career and technical education.
Parents can select from a wide range of neighborhood schools and themed or magnet programs that focus on areas such as STEM, visual and performing arts, international baccalaureate programs, and advanced academic tracks.
The following table highlights some features of the education environment in Virginia Beach, VA:
| Education Feature (Virginia Beach, VA) | Description |
|---|---|
| Public School System | Virginia Beach City Public Schools serves a large and diverse student population with generally strong test scores and graduation rates. |
| Specialty Programs | Includes academies for Health Sciences, STEM, Global Studies, Visual & Performing Arts, and Technical & Career Education. |
| Private & Parochial Schools | A variety of private and faith-based schools offer additional educational choices across the city. |
| Higher Education Access | Nearby colleges and universities in Hampton Roads, including institutions in Norfolk and Chesapeake, provide options for higher education and professional development. |
Overall, the strong educational options in Virginia Beach, VA, add significant value for families and contribute positively to neighborhood desirability and home values.
Living And Working In Virginia Beach VA
In summary, Virginia Beach, VA, offers a compelling balance of salary levels, affordable to moderate living costs, and desirable coastal amenities. While wages vary by industry, many professionals find that their earnings go further here than in higher-cost metropolitan areas, especially when factoring in housing, transportation, and access to recreational opportunities.
The combination of diverse neighborhoods, a stable housing market, reputable schools, and year-round access to beaches and outdoor activities makes Virginia Beach, VA, an attractive destination for individuals and families alike. Whether you are drawn by the job market, the coastline, or the community-oriented lifestyle, understanding the salary and cost of living in Virginia Beach, VA will help you plan a smooth transition and find the right home for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Virginia Beach, VA
What is the cost of living like in Virginia Beach, VA?
What are the best neighborhoods to live in Virginia Beach?
What is the climate like in Virginia Beach throughout the year?
What is the job market like in Virginia Beach, and which industries are strong?
What is it like to raise a family in Virginia Beach?
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