Let the numbers do the talking.
Fredericksburg, VA vs Virginia Beach, VA
Fredericksburg, VA vs Virginia Beach, VA: What the data shows
Fredericksburg, VA is in Fredericksburg, VA while Virginia Beach, VA is in Virginia Beach, VA — both in the same state. On home prices, Fredericksburg, VA is the more affordable option at $439,400 median — $98,500 less than Virginia Beach, VA's $537,900. WYLT rates Fredericksburg, VA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Virginia Beach, VA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Fredericksburg, VA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Virginia Beach, VA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Fredericksburg, VA has Low flood risk and Virginia Beach, VA has High flood risk.
Fredericksburg, VA is the more walkable neighborhood. Fredericksburg, VA scores 30/100 (mostly car-dependent) versus Virginia Beach, VA's N/A/100. For families weighing school quality, Virginia Beach, VA has the higher school rating — Fredericksburg, VA rates 8.1/10 and Virginia Beach, VA rates 8.8/10.
| Category | Fredericksburg, VA | Virginia Beach, VA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Think twice |
| Median Price | $439K ✓ Lower price | $538K |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $83K | $93K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 30/100 ✓ More walkable | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | 24/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | 18/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 70 min | N/A |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good ✓ Cleaner air |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 8.1/10 | 8.8/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | FamiliesStudentsHistory buffs | Families with childrenMilitary familiesRetirees seeking beach lifestyle |
Bottom line
For families considering a move to the Fredericksburg area, I recommend Fredericksburg over Virginia Beach due to its lower flood risk and more affordable housing. Virginia Beach, however, is a better fit for families with young children or those who need to commute to Richmond, thanks to its high school ratings and lower commute times. If you're looking for a beach lifestyle, Virginia Beach may still be a good choice, but be prepared for the trade-offs in terms of flood risk and cost of living.
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