The Military Family’s Guide to Settling Down in Virginia Beach

For military families, settling down in one place after years of relocations and deployments can feel both exciting and overwhelming. Virginia Beach offers the perfect combination of community, resources, and lifestyle to make that transition smoother. With its military-friendly atmosphere, excellent amenities, and vibrant coastal setting, Virginia Beach is a fantastic choice for military families looking to put down roots.

Choosing the Right Neighbourhood

One of the first steps in settling down is finding the perfect neighbourhood. Virginia Beach offers a variety of family-friendly communities, each with unique characteristics.

• Red Mill: Known for its suburban feel, great schools, and proximity to the beach, this area is a favourite among families.
• Kempsville: Centrally located with easy access to bases, schools, and shopping, it’s ideal for convenience and community.
• Chesapeake Beach (Chic’s Beach): A coastal gem that offers a laid-back vibe with stunning views and tight-knit community charm.

When choosing a neighbourhood, consider factors like commute times to bases, proximity to schools, and access to recreational activities. Many local real estate agents specialise in working with military families and can help navigate these decisions.

Take Advantage of Military Benefits

Virginia Beach is well-equipped to support military families, with resources designed to make settling down easier. Families can leverage VA home loan benefits to purchase a home with favourable terms, including low or no down payments. Additionally, the city offers programs that provide financial assistance and housing support for veterans.

The local military installations, including Naval Air Station Oceana and Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story, have programs to assist families transitioning to civilian life or moving to a permanent residence. These include relocation assistance, childcare services, and employment resources for military spouses.

Find Excellent Schools for Your Children

Education is a top priority for many military families, and Virginia Beach delivers with its highly-rated public schools. The Virginia Beach City Public Schools system is known for academic excellence and robust extracurricular programs. Many schools in the area also offer support tailored to the needs of military children, helping them adjust to new environments and succeed academically.

For families interested in private or charter schools, Virginia Beach has a range of options that cater to diverse learning styles and needs.

Embrace the Coastal Lifestyle

Virginia Beach isn’t just a place to live; it’s a lifestyle. Settling down here means enjoying the perks of coastal living, from sunny days on the beach to outdoor adventures at places like First Landing State Park.

Families can bond over activities like kayaking, hiking, and fishing or enjoy the many festivals and community events held throughout the year. Virginia Beach also offers a thriving arts scene, delicious local cuisine, and plenty of family-friendly attractions like the Virginia Aquarium.

Build Connections in the Community

One of the most important aspects of settling down is creating a sense of community, and Virginia Beach makes that easy. The city has a strong network of military families who understand the unique challenges and rewards of military life.

Joining local groups, attending community events, or volunteering at veteran-focused organisations can help build meaningful relationships. Many military spouses also find support through programs aimed at career development, childcare, and social connection.

Planning for the Long Term

Settling down means thinking about the future. Virginia Beach’s stable economy, low crime rates, and affordable housing market make it a great place to invest in a home and build long-term security. Whether you’re purchasing your first home or upgrading to accommodate your growing family, Virginia Beach offers a range of options to meet your needs.

Conclusion

Virginia Beach combines the best of coastal living with a military-friendly community, making it an ideal place for families to settle down. With excellent schools, diverse neighbourhoods, and strong support systems, it offers everything you need to build a stable and fulfilling life.

Ready to make Virginia Beach your forever home? Let’s find the perfect place for your family today!