Who Thrives in Virginia Beach's Old Dominion lifestyle?
Is Virginia Beach right for me? If you're an Adventure Junkie, a Surfer Dude, or a Beach Bum, you'll worship The Resort City's dawn swells and endless boardwalk buzz. If you're a Cowboy, a Wall Street Exec, or a Homesteader, you'll curse jet noise, HOA rules, and humid, salt soaked summers. Find out who Virginia Beach is and is NOT for in the list below.
Laura, Our Local Expert Guiding Your Move
Laura arrived in Virginia in 1988 with a teaching job, a love of sunshine, and zero idea she’d still be here decades later—now basically an honorary ambassador for the state. She’s tracked down over 800 of Virginia’s iconic LOVE signs, a feat that probably deserves its own license plate. When she’s not at the beach or debating which El Azteca location does the best Nacho Fajitas, she’s editing Snappy Scout’s Virginia guides, helping readers discover the local quirks and hidden gems she’s been living (and loving) for years.
Read moreWritten with local insight from Snappy Scout relocation experts
Who Fits Virginia Beach Best?
Ranked by how well each personality tends to thrive here, from can't-miss matches to tougher fits.
Adventure Junkie
Great FitRudee parasails and deep sea fishing, False Cape bike camping, Neptune Festival.
Surfer Dude
Great FitCroatan dawn patrol, 1st Street Jetty hurricane swells, the quiet North End.
Beach Bum
Great FitSandbridge sunsets, Chic's Beach floaties, Oceanfront toes forever sandy.
Retired Snowbird
Great FitQuiet winters, empty boardwalk, Waterman's early bird oysters.
Retired Military
Great FitOceana airshow, commissary deals, Military Aviation Museum, Sandbridge surf fishing.
Yoga Instructor
Great FitSunrise classes 31st Street, Studio Bamboo's zen naps.
Craft Beer Fan
Great FitCommonwealth sours, Back Bay flights, ViBe patios linger.
Foodie
Great FitLynnhaven oysters by skiff, Doc Taylor's hangover hash.
Stay at Home Mom
Great FitMount Trashmore slides, Aquarium touch tanks, Hunt Club Farm, bedtime victory.
Ready to See If Virginia Beach Fits You?
Compare cities, check the routes, or head back to the full Virginia Beach guide for the bigger picture.