When it comes to growing careers, many young professionals gravitate to Virginia’s large metropolitan areas thanks to the abundance of education, business, and healthcare opportunities there. However, recent U.S. Census data reports following the pandemic suggest that this trend is reversing as more young professionals move to rural Virginia to establish roots.
In this blog, we explore rural Virginia population trends, covering why rural Virginia is getting younger, the benefits of living in rural Virginia, and popular small towns in Virginia.
On the fence about Virginia living? Read our blog on the 7 things you need to know before moving to Virginia.
The Key Takeaways
• Between 2020–2023, Virginia’s population has started to rearrange. Northern Virginia and the Hampton Roads are losing residents as people move toward rural towns in the Southwest and Southside.
• The median age of rural Virginia is lowering as communities gain residents within the 25–45 age group. This demographic is the primary working group, concerned with professional growth and starting families.
• A lower cost of living, small-town lifestyle, and career opportunities are the main drivers of population shifts. Healthcare and medical career opportunities are rich in rural Virginia.
Census Data Shows Exodus from Larger Metros Into Smaller Metros and Rural Virginia Areas
An analysis published by the Weldon Cooper Center found that there has been a growing shift in Virginia’s migration patterns starting in the 2010s.
As the cost of living in larger metropolitan areas skyrocketed, more people turned to mid-sized cities, which boasted affordable housing options, growing culture and entertainment hubs, and accessible commerce. Access to growing e-commerce markets and the globalization of experiences due to social media also impacted how Virginia’s small towns developed.
The 2020 pandemic was the turning point in migration patterns, accelerating the movement from large hubs to smaller cities and rural communities. Young professionals began to question what they wanted out of their careers and started to prioritize a healthier work-life balance, which is reflected in their gravitation toward rural communities.
Take a look at this Virginia migration map that shows which locations have experienced more people moving in or out between 2020–2023:
Source: Weldon Cooper Center
Now consider this map showing the change in median age in Virginia localities between 2020–2023:
Source: Cardinal News
These maps, combined with U.S. Census data, reveal that:
• Many rural Virginia counties have seen a net increase (between 0%–4%) of people moving in between 2020 and 2023. The trend is not slowing down post-pandemic.
• New incoming rural Virginia residents are lowering the median age of their counties. Several rural Virginia counties saw growth in the 25–45 age group.
• More people moved out of Northern Virginia, growing into the Winchester and Richmond metro areas.
• The four fastest-growing counties in Virginia are New Kent, Goochland, Louisa, and Caroline.
5 Reasons to Move to Rural Virginia
1. Affordable Cost of Living
2. Healthcare Career Opportunities
3. Relaxed Lifestyle
4. Access to Nature and Outdoor Recreation
5. Community-Driven Small Towns
1. Affordable Cost of Living
One of the main factors driving people to rural Virginia is affordability. The cost of living in rural areas is considerably lower than in larger metropolitan areas when taking housing prices, healthcare, groceries, utilities, and median salaries into account.
We referenced Best Places to note the cost of living for these growing counties compared to the national average:
• Pulaski County: About 18% lower
• Grayson County: About 18% lower
• Smyth County County: About 19% lower
• Charlotte County: About 20% lower
Even within counties, the cost of living will differ depending on your location and city or town size. Remember to compare different areas to determine the best fit.
2. Healthcare Career Opportunities
Healthcare professionals are in high demand in rural communities as they offer a vital service to spread-out or geographically isolated populations. The Virginia Department of Health seeks to attract and retain healthcare workers through loan repayment programs that prioritize those working in Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs), including dental, behavioral, and mental health.
Virginia repayment programs incentivizing work in HPSAs include:
• National Interest Waiver Program
• Virginia State Loan Repayment Programs
• Virginia Behavioral Health Student Loan Repayment Program
• Virginia Dental Loan Repayment Program
Whether you’re an aspiring nurse, a medical doctor, or a behavioral health professional, you’re sure to secure a healthcare role in rural Virginia!
3. Relaxed Lifestyle
A smaller population generally means less crowds, quieter living, and a more relaxed pace of life. Unless you’re commuting into a metropolitan area, there is less rush hour traffic. And residents have more space to establish roots.
Those who move into rural areas in Virginia often comment on the opportunities for work-life balance. The calmer pace can contribute to a healthier mindset. And access to outdoor recreational activities, local produce, and high-quality breweries and wineries can boost physical well-being.
Of course, Virginia’s rural counties may offer different amenities depending on your location and town size, so it’s important to find an environment that suits your lifestyle!
4. Access to Nature and Outdoor Recreation
Virginia is renowned for its diverse ecosystems, featuring lush forests, bountiful rivers, and incredible national parks. It’s no wonder that rural Virginia residents take pride in their proximity to nature and easy access to a wide range of outdoor recreational activities. Hiking, fishing, camping, and hunting are popular pastimes.
Rural Virginia also features several natural wonders such as:
• Natural Bridge: Explore the Natural Bridge in Rockbridge County, a 215-foot-high natural arch formed by the previous pathway of Cedar Creek. The site is a designated Virginia Historic Landmark and a National Historic Landmark.
• Luray Caverns: Discovered in 1878, the Luray Caverns are dense with stalactites, stalagmites, and other impressive geological formations. Visitors can find the Great Stalacpipe Organ, a lithophone that creates music by tapping ancient stalactites.
• Great Dismal Swamp: The Great Dismal Swamp houses Lake Drummond, which is one of only two naturally occurring freshwater lakes in Virginia. The swamp also houses a national wildlife refuge, created in 1973 to restore the area’s ecosystem.
With countless parks, rivers, and trails to explore, the natural environment offers plenty of opportunities for adventure and relaxation, making rural Virginia a haven for nature lovers.
5. Community-Driven Small Towns
Virginia’s small towns and cities are driven by a strong sense of community. Building personal relationships is critical to growing professional networks and establishing lasting roots.
Not sure how to start? Try attending or volunteering at local Virginia festivals and other annual gatherings to connect with peers! Festivals are a great way to experience the passionate grassroots cultural scene while learning about the town’s traditions. You can also use community-based forums or apps to find clubs and hobby groups to join.
Popular Small Towns in Rural Virginia
Not sure where to live? Check out these small towns in rural Virginia to see if the environment suits you! As always, it’s best to visit a location before moving. Your next best resource is talking to locals on community forums and seeing what people have to say!
Chincoteague
Chincoteague is famous for its wild ponies, which roam freely on Assateague Island. In addition to its natural wonders, Chincoteague offers visitors and residents a charming atmosphere with its small shops, local art galleries, and the popular Chincoteague Blueberry Festival held every July.
Damascus
Known as the “Trail Town USA,” Damascus is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. With seven major trails converging in the town, including the Appalachian Trail, Damascus is a popular destination for hiking, biking, and exploring the surrounding natural beauty.
Floyd
Floyd is a small town with a vibrant arts scene and a laid-back rural vibe. From its Friday Night Jamboree, featuring live bluegrass music, to its local craft shops, Floyd is a cultural hub nestled in the rolling hills of rural Virginia.
Make Your Move to Rural Virginia
Rural Virginia offers a unique blend of affordability, natural beauty, and community spirit that is attracting more and more people each year. Whether you’re seeking a slower pace of life, a strong connection to nature, or a welcoming small-town environment, rural Virginia has it all.
If you’re ready to trade the hustle and bustle of the city for a peaceful, fulfilling life, rural Virginia might just be the perfect place for your next chapter!
