The rental market in Virginia is rather aggressive with many people wanting to rent and not enough houses to go around. This is likely because this is a popular vacation state and due to its proximity to the nation's capital, Washington DC. The most popular rental area is Virginia Beach with average rental prices around $1,200/month. Richmond is also popular with rents averaging $977/month. Coming in the middle price wise are Norfolk and Chesapeake.
Virginia has five regions. These include the Coastal Plain, the Piedmont, the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Valley and Ridge, and the Appalachian Plateau. The Coastal Plain region runs along the Atlantic Ocean. It is generally flat with just small hills. The Piedmont region is full of rolling hills and falls in the eastern foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The Blue Ridge Mountains region is part of the Appalachian Mountain area and is mostly thick forest. The Valley and Ridge area is loaded with rocky peaks, ridges and knobs. It is by far the least settled area of the state. The Appalachian Plateau region is rich in coal deposits. It is found in the southwest area of the state. Within the different regions, you will find a variety of different cultural influences. There are parts of the state that are greatly influenced by the north and some parts that are very southern inspired. Economically, the state also has great variations with the upper class dominating areas like Richmond and families living in near poverty in the areas around the Appalachian Mountains.
Virginia was the first official colony of the United States. As such, it is steeped in history and many treasured historical sites are found in the state. Its location near Washington DC also makes it home to many government sites. Finally, this is a state that varies greatly from coastal beaches to snow topped mountains, so there are many outdoor attractions to enjoy. Top places to visit in Virginia include Arlington National Cemetery, the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, Monticello, Historic Jamestown, Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, Colonial Williamsburg and the Virginia Beach boardwalk.
