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Virginia Beach, VA, United States

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Est. Monthly Cost (1 Person)
$2,830
Retiree Score
58.0
Safety Index
70.1
Healthcare
11 facilities

With a population of 459,470, Virginia Beach is a sprawling resort town that may appeal to some, but its bureaucratic headaches and vulnerability to flooding cannot be ignored. Tourism drives much of the economy, but the city is also home to major defense contractors and military bases that employ over 171,000 people - though only 54% actually live within the city limits. While the climate is mild and the parks system is impressive, Virginia Beach has grappled with the challenges of rapid growth, including a land crunch that has led to floodplain development and lawsuits over rejected projects. Those drawn to the coastal charms and relative safety of this city may find the paperwork and climate risks to be persistent annoyances.

Can I afford Virginia Beach, VA?

$

Virginia Beach, VA

You could save

170/mo

Savings Rate6%

Monthly Costs

Rent $1,750
Living (Country Average Adjusted)$1,080

Attractiveness Scores

FIRE Score
(i)
6/100
Retiree Score
(i)
58/100
Lifestyle Score
(i)
50/100
💻Nomad Score
(i)
50/100
Meets United States Digital Nomad Visa Income Rule.
70
Safety
11
Healthcare
100
Walkability
20
Nomad

Grocery Basket

Milk (1L) $1
Bread (loaf) *$3
Eggs (12) $4
Rice (1kg) *$5
Chicken (1kg) *$12

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Eating Out

Meal (Inexpensive) *$18
Meal (Mid-range) $118
Cappuccino $6
Water (0.33L) *$2

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Utilities & Lifestyle

Utilities (mo) $209
Mobile Plan (mo) $54
Gym (mo) *$44
Cinema Ticket $12

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Housing

1BR Center (mo) $1,400
1BR Outside (mo) *$1,084
3BR Center (mo) $2,560
3BR Outside (mo) *$1,782

* Estimated based on regional averages.

🧳 Expat Life

English Proficiency
Widely Spoken
Expat Community
Large & Active
Top Neighborhoods
Oceanfront, Shore Drive
Best For
families, military contractors

Expat Life Notes

A popular coastal city with a high quality of life, large military community, and family-friendly vibe.

Pros

  • ✓ Beachfront lifestyle
  • ✓ Very safe environment
  • ✓ Universal English

Cons

  • ✗ High seasonal tourist crowds
  • ✗ Humidity
  • ✗ Car dependency

🌐 Infrastructure & Lifestyle

Avg Internet
—
Temperature
—
Annual Rainfall
1210 mm
Coworking Spaces
—
Best Months to Visit
May, Jun, Sep, Oct

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Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Virginia Beach, VA

Click any question to expand the answer.

Virginia Beach, VA has a population of approximately 459,470 people.

A single person can expect to spend around $4,375 per month in Virginia Beach, VA, including rent. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $1750/month.

The nearest airport to Virginia Beach, VA is ORF, approximately 20km away.

Virginia Beach, VA is considered relatively safe, with a safety index of 70.1. As with any city abroad, expats should research specific neighborhoods before committing to a location.

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