Living in Virginia: the ultimate expat guide

Virginia's job market is one of the most robust in the United States, offering diverse opportunities for skilled professionals. The state's proximity to the nation's capital has fostered a thriving ecosystem of government contractors, technology companies, and professional services firms. Foreign workers typically need employer sponsorship for work visas such as the H-1B for specialty occupations or the L-1 for intracompany transfers.

Key Employment Sectors

The technology and cybersecurity sector dominates Northern Virginia, with companies like Amazon (HQ2 in Arlington), Microsoft, Google, and numerous defense contractors establishing major operations. The defense and aerospace industry employs nearly 200,000 workers, with firms such as Northrop Grumman, Raytheon, General Dynamics, and Booz Allen Hamilton headquartered in the region. Healthcare and education represent growing sectors, with major employers including Inova Health System in Falls Church and Sentara Healthcare in Norfolk. The Hampton Roads region hosts the world's largest naval base, creating significant military and civilian employment opportunities.

Employment Statistics

Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis

Virginia boasts some of the finest universities in the United States, attracting international students with strong academic programs, research opportunities, and pathways to employment. The state's public university system offers relatively affordable tuition compared to peer institutions, while private colleges provide intimate learning environments.

Top Universities for International Students

The University of Virginia (UVA) in Charlottesville, founded by Thomas Jefferson in 1819, ranks #26 nationally according to U.S. News & World Report. The historic campus is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Out-of-state tuition runs approximately $62,923 per year. Programs in business (Darden School), law, and engineering are particularly renowned. Virginia Tech in Blacksburg ranks #51 nationally and excels in engineering, computer science, and agriculture. Out-of-state tuition is approximately $38,310. The university received over 57,000 first-year applications for Fall 2025, demonstrating its growing popularity. College of William & Mary, the second-oldest university in America, offers a prestigious liberal arts education with a 33% acceptance rate. George Mason University near Washington D.C. provides strong programs in policy, technology, and business with a more accessible tuition structure for international students.

Admission Requirements

International students typically need to submit academic transcripts, English proficiency scores (TOEFL minimum 90 iBT or IELTS 7.0), standardized test scores (SAT/ACT, though many schools are now test-optional), letters of recommendation, and personal essays. Most universities have application deadlines in January for fall enrollment.

Sources: U.S. News & World Report, University of Virginia, Virginia Tech

Virginia offers excellent educational options for expatriate families, from highly-ranked public schools to prestigious private and international institutions. Northern Virginia's public schools consistently rank among the best in the nation, while private schools provide specialized curricula and smaller class sizes.

Public School System

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) is Virginia's largest school district and one of the top-performing in the country, serving over 180,000 students. The district offers robust English Language Learner (ELL) programs for international families. Loudoun County Public Schools and Arlington Public Schools also rank highly and provide strong support services for newcomers. Public education is free for residents, though families should budget for supplies, activities, and transportation in some areas.

Private and International Schools

For families seeking alternative curricula, Northern Virginia hosts numerous private institutions. The Madeira School in McLean offers a comprehensive day and boarding program with tuition around $47,310 for day students. Flint Hill School in Oakton provides PK-12 education with strong college preparation. BASIS Independent McLean offers a rigorous STEM-focused curriculum and ranks among Virginia's top private schools. International Baccalaureate (IB) programs are available at several public and private schools throughout the state. Private school tuition in Fairfax County averages approximately $19,250 annually, with high school tuition averaging around $22,403.

Sources: Fairfax County Public Schools, Private School Review

Virginia's housing market varies dramatically by region, with Northern Virginia commanding premium prices due to proximity to Washington D.C., while central and southern regions offer more affordable options. Understanding the different areas helps expatriates find neighborhoods that match their lifestyle and budget.

Rental Market Overview

Statewide, the average rent in Virginia is approximately $1,972 per month. In Northern Virginia, expect to pay significantly more, with one-bedroom apartments in Arlington averaging $2,500-$3,000 and two-bedroom units reaching $3,000-$3,500. The Richmond metropolitan area offers more moderate pricing, with one-bedroom apartments averaging around $1,462 and two-bedrooms at approximately $1,609. Virginia Beach and Hampton Roads provide coastal living with rents typically falling between these extremes. Most landlords require proof of income (typically 2.5-3 times monthly rent), credit checks, and first month's rent plus security deposit.

Expat-Friendly Neighborhoods

Arlington attracts young professionals with its urban amenities, Metro access, and vibrant dining scene. Alexandria's Old Town offers historic charm with cobblestone streets and waterfront living. Fairfax and McLean provide excellent schools and suburban comfort for families. Reston features planned community living with extensive trails and lakes. In Richmond, the Fan District and Scott's Addition appeal to those seeking walkable urban neighborhoods with character.

Sources: RentCafe, Zillow

Virginia's cultural offerings span four centuries of American history alongside contemporary arts, outdoor recreation, and a vibrant food and drink scene. From world-class museums near D.C. to mountain adventures and coastal relaxation, the state provides diverse entertainment options.

Historic Sites and Museums

Colonial Williamsburg offers an immersive living history experience where visitors can walk the same streets as America's founders. Mount Vernon, George Washington's estate along the Potomac, welcomes over a million visitors annually. The Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly houses the Space Shuttle Discovery and hundreds of historic aircraft. Monticello, Thomas Jefferson's architectural masterpiece in Charlottesville, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Richmond's American Civil War Museum and Virginia Museum of Fine Arts provide excellent cultural experiences.

Outdoor Adventures

Shenandoah National Park offers over 500 miles of hiking trails, including a section of the Appalachian Trail, with stunning Blue Ridge Mountain views. Virginia Beach provides three miles of oceanfront boardwalk for swimming, surfing, and people-watching. Great Falls Park near McLean features dramatic waterfalls and challenging hiking just 15 miles from D.C. The state boasts over 40 state parks and numerous vineyards along scenic wine trails.

Entertainment and Nightlife

Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts in Vienna hosts over 100 performances annually in its stunning outdoor amphitheater. Richmond's Scott's Addition neighborhood has become a craft brewery destination with dozens of taprooms. Busch Gardens Williamsburg offers world-class roller coasters and themed entertainment. Northern Virginia's restaurant scene spans global cuisines, from Ethiopian enclaves in Alexandria to Koreatown in Annandale.

Sources: Virginia Tourism Corporation, National Park Service

Daily life in Virginia balances urban convenience with suburban comfort, depending on where you settle. The state's transportation infrastructure connects major population centers, though car ownership remains important for most residents outside the densest urban cores.

Getting Around

Northern Virginia benefits from the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) Metro system, with stations throughout Arlington, Fairfax, and Alexandria providing rail service to downtown D.C. The system operates six rail lines and extensive bus routes. Monthly unlimited Metro passes cost approximately $100-$200 depending on zones. Virginia Railway Express (VRE) offers commuter rail service from Fredericksburg and Manassas to D.C. In Richmond, GRTC Transit System provides bus service, including the free-fare Pulse rapid transit line along Broad Street. For most Virginians, however, car ownership is practical. Gas prices typically hover around $3.00-$3.50 per gallon, below the national average. Major airports include Reagan National (DCA), Dulles International (IAD), and Richmond International (RIC).

Everyday Lifestyle

Virginians enjoy a relatively laid-back lifestyle compared to other East Coast states. Shopping options range from major malls like Tysons Corner Center to charming downtown boutiques. Grocery shopping is affordable, with stores like Wegmans, Trader Joe's, and Harris Teeter serving most areas alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi and Lidl. The state permits alcohol sales in grocery stores and has a growing craft brewery scene. Most businesses observe standard American hours, with shops typically open until 9 PM and restaurants serving late into the evening.

Sources: WMATA, Virginia DRPT

Virginia's cost of living sits close to the national average, though Northern Virginia significantly exceeds it due to the D.C. metro area's high demand. Understanding regional variations helps expatriates plan realistic budgets for their move.

Monthly Budget: Single Person

Monthly Budget: Family of Four

Sources: Numbeo, MIT Living Wage Calculator