Zillow.com recently looked at the most scenic places in Virginia and ranked them in affordability. Also factored in were natural scenery, access to state parks, and civic features. Take into account that experts predict home values will increase 1.2% in 2024 in Virginia, so these averages will increase slightly as the year progresses.
Here are the top 10, along with the average home price and highlights of what makes them so beautiful.
10. Hampton - $253,911
Hampton is one of Virginia's most-populated cities, coming in at just over 137,000. The average home value, though, is only $253,911.
Situated on a peninsula surrounded by beautiful views of the Chesapeake Bay and the Hampton River, nearby Sandy Bottom Nature Park is one of the reasons Hampton is in the top 10.
9. Lynchburg - $239,254
Lynchburg has a population of 80,000 residents and is home to Liberty University - the largest college in the Old Dominion. Situated on the James River and the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, there are many outdoor opportunities to hike and take in the scenery. An historic city, Lynchburg also has many storied sites and museums to visit.
8. Portsmouth - $238,161
Part of the Hampton Roads region, Portsmouth is situated on the banks of the Elizabeth River, which cuts through multiple parts of the city. Home to 98,000 residents, home values are surprisingly affordable, at an average of $238,161.
Olde Town Historic District, the Children's Museum of Virginia, and the Portsmouth Arts and Culture Center are just some of the highlights of this picturesque area.
7. Farmville - $233,972
Many Virginians make several road trips each year to Farmville to wander through the numerous buildings of furniture that make up The Greenfront mart. With a population of 7,000, Farmville offers small-town charm at an affordable price.
For outdoor lovers, the High Bridge Trail and Bright Eyes Alpaca retreat are popular destinations, but for many, it is the bucolic farmlands and woods that surround Farmville that offer the most enjoyment. Of course, as the home to two Virginia colleges, the town's population surges when classes are in session, but these institutions also offer cultural opportunities many other small towns don't.
6. Hopewell - $203,157
Hopewell is a waterfront community located at the junction of the James and Appomattox rivers. Located 25 miles from Richmond, Hopewell has a population of 20,000 and an average home value of only $203, 157.
One of the highlights of Hopewell are the eight Sears Catalog kit homes in the Crescent Hills neighborhood, as well as the dozens of Aladdin kit homes throughout the city.
5. Bristol - $190,880
Bristol is located on the Tennessee border in southwestern Virginia and is home to the historic Bristol Rail Station, a gothic-style building often used for events and parties.
Nestled in the Appalachian Mountains and surrounded by scenic South Holston Lake, there are plenty of scenic overlooks and hiking trails to keep even the most avid outdoors person entertained.
Bristol is also home to one of Virginia's newest Casinos and was listed as one of the fastest-growing communities in the state.
4. Pulaski - $142,850
Another small town in western Virginia, Pulaski has around 9,000 residents. Numerous creeks and streams flow through the town, and the town's many parks provide lovely places to sit and rest a while.
Claytor Lake is just a short drive away, and the New River Trail (the longest biking trail in Virginia at 57 miles) connects Pulaski to other towns to the south.
Pulaski County is home to 26 summits, ridges, ranges, trails and other mountain features providing plenty of opportunities for picturesque selfies.
3. Marion - $141,049
Marion is a small community located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, which affords its residents an abundance of natural beauty.
With only 6,000 residents, Marion has an almost Mayberry feel. Just north of Marion is Hungry Mother State Park, which has 1000 acres and miles of wooded and scenic hiking trails. The historic Lincoln Theater and many shops and restaurants make downtown Marion a fun place to be on a cool mountain summer evening.
2. Covington - $125,031
When someone says northern Virginia, most people think of traffic, sky-high home prices, and congestion. That's not the case for Covington, which is situated near the West Virginia border on the banks of the Jackson River. A town of 6,000 residents, with an average home price of $125,031, this Alleghany Mountains spot has loads of summer events, unique places to dine, and uniquely Alleghany B&Bs.
Covered bridges, waterfalls, historic landmarks, and plenty of hiking opportunities are just some of the highlights of this mountain retreat.
1. Martinsville - $116,698
After years of struggling to recover from the loss of industry and jobs following the end of the tobacco era, Martinsville is seeing a renaissance. With a population of 13,500, the average home price is still only $116,698, but many experts don't think that will continue much longer.
Located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge, Martinsville is surrounded by lakes, rivers, and parks. Downtown Martinsville is filled with murals and public art, and is home to the Virginia Museum of Natural History.
Of course, Martinsville is also home to the Martinsville Speedway - a popular destination for racing fans. But you can't beat the beautiful Spring and Fall seasons for the breathtaking beauty of the land around the town.
What do you think of the list? Do you live in any of these lovely places?
Sources: Zillow, Virginia Realtor Association, AZanimals, Forbes