May 22nd, 2026

If the Appalachian Trail calls your name — but you still want to be near the amenities of the city — perhaps you’ve imagined building a life in Virginia. According to statistics, over 8.6 million people call the state home, and many of these people are entrepreneurs. Find out why small business owners are moving to the state and how you can move there, too.
1. Rentals in Virginia
Many people are surprised to learn how affordable rentals in Washington DC and nearby Virginia can be. Indeed, research reveals that a studio apartment goes for an average of $781 per month, while a one or two-bedroom comes in at $842 or $1,007, respectively. This low cost of living — including low home prices, too — makes it ideal for entrepreneurs.
2. Community
Southern hospitality is a serious matter in Virginia — and it’s not limited to neighborly exchanges. Many Virginia transplants find that the community in the state is simply more welcoming than other areas. Business owners can look forward to support from fellow entrepreneurs as well as customers and mentors.
3. Quality of Life
Virginia is known for its natural beauty, including an array of parks, a vivid culinary scene, and plenty of family-friendly events. Some examples of popular parks and events include the following:
• First Landing State Park
• Natural Tunnel State Park
• Adventure Park at Sandy River
• Annual Virginia Children’s Festival
4. Any savvy business owner understands the value of an educated workforce — and Virginia is a great place to find one. There are 129 higher education institutes in the state, including the following notable selections:
• University of Virginia
• University of Richmond
• William & Mary
• Virginia Tech
• George Mason University
These colleges and universities offer a great pool of talent to recruit from.
5. Business Quick-Start Checklist
Starting a business in Virginia may seem overwhelming, but it’s simple to get started. You need to narrow down your business concept, develop a business plan, and research local laws regarding forming a company and obtaining a business license. Forming a corporation can be a great way to jumpstart your company. A corporation allows you to easily transfer shares, attract established investors, and maintain a clear structure. To boost your business's marketing appeal, you can also create an attractive banner to use on your website or on social media. Use an online banner maker to customize the graphic with text, images, and fonts of your choosing.
6. Finding a New Home in Virginia
If you’re new to Virginia and unsure of where you’d like to land, renting a home or apartment may be the right option. As you’re looking for a place, you can narrow your search by identifying neighborhoods that have your desired amenities. Look at listings online to find rentals in your budget, with the number of bedrooms and bathrooms you need for your family to be comfortable.
7. Making Friends in Virginia
Moving to Virginia may be great for your business, but it can also be beneficial to your social life, too. Making new friends is never easy, but some sources say that it’s possible in places like Richmond.
Discover How Virginia Can Benefit Your Business and Your Family
Packing up and moving to a new state is a major decision. If you’re looking for a place to start your business, raise a family, and put down roots, though, Virginia might be it. You can find a rental home by searching online and growing your business by connecting with other entrepreneurs in your community.
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