Why Live in Onancock
Onancock, VA, is a waterfront town framed by a Chesapeake Bay creek, attracting boaters and artists alike. Established in 1680 as a port town, Onancock now thrives with a community marina and a lively downtown known for art galleries and community events. Historic preservation is key, with residents maintaining Colonial Revivals, Queen Annes, and bungalows from the late 1800s and early 1900s. The town features mid-20th-century cottages and 21st-century New Traditionals, some with private boat docks. Severe rainstorms can cause creek overflow, necessitating flood insurance for waterfront properties. Onancock Wharf and Marina offers boat storage, a ramp, and gas services, with Mallard’s seafood restaurant nearby, often hosting live music. The Tangier-Onancock Ferry operates seasonally, attracting some tourists. Downtown Onancock boasts murals, boutiques, diverse dining options, and entertainment venues like Roseland Theatre and Historic Cokesbury Cultural Center. Monthly Second Friday Art Strolls and weekly farmers markets add to the town's vibrant atmosphere. Inland green spaces include a dog park and Little League ball fields, with oceanfront beaches like Chincoteague Island 30 miles east. Onancock is zoned for Accomack County Public Schools, with Eastern Shore Community College 7 miles south. The community is walkable, especially near the water during sunsets, and U.S. Route 13 provides easy driving access to Salisbury, 60 miles north. STAR Transit offers bus service to nearby communities, and Riverside Shore Memorial Hospital provides local healthcare.
