Cadence at Lansdowne
Lansdowne, Virginia
Colonial Beach, Virginia
What It Is Like to Retire in Colonial beach
Colonial Beach is an old town on the Potomac River in northeastern Virginia. It is near the birthplaces of Presidents Washington and Monroe. During the 19th Century it was a very famous beach resort. Alexander Graham Bell maintained a summer home in Colonial Beach. When the Chesapeake Bay Bridge was built it opened up the ocean beaches of eastern Maryland, which helped lead to Colonial Beach's decline. The town has been recovering since then. Population is just under 4,000 but growing. People who have visited here either really like the low-key atmosphere. Your editor thought it quite charming on a recent visit, although probably not a place where he would like to live (too quiet). One of the more interesting things about Colonial Beach is the network of small lanes that run through town - too small for cars but perfect for bikes and golf carts. In fact most people rely on their golf carts as a primary means of transportation! Colonial Beach is probably a lot more attractive as an up and coming retirement community than as a home for younger families - reflected in the average age of about 46. The commute to DC and suburban Washington is tough from here - but if you don't have to commute.... The area is filled with history and the scenery in this area with the second largest beach in Virginia and beautiful farmland, is quite pretty.
Where to Retire in Colonial beach and Home Prices
Real estate in the Northern Neck area of Virginia was very hot until the recent crash. Median home value in Colonial Beach was $298,754 in late 2023, according to Zillow. Places near the water will be more, but are good bargains for the area for waterfront. There is a waterfront town home community here.
What Is Special about Colonial beach
Colonial Beach is an and historic town as well as having some of the best beaches in Virginia. The town has been promoting itself as a high-end waterfront tourist destination, which, if it succeeds, could have a dramatic turnaround for this town.
What Is Not Special about Colonial beach
Some commentators of a few years ago knocked the schools and the down at the heels feel of the downtown. But since then the town has been getting nicer and nicer.
Who Will Like Retirement in Colonial beach
Escapees from the DC area looking to retire in a more low-key area on the waterfront will like Colonial Beach retirement. It has a very casual environment where most people get around by bike, golf cart, or walking.
Local Economy Is Driven by
Tourism and local gambling.
Climate and Physical Environment
Colonial Beach is a large beach on the Potomac, across the river from Maryland. Richmond is the nearest big city, about an hour away. Average January temp is in the mid 30's and average July temp in high 70s.
Restaurants & Cultural Scene
One Topretirments Member reports the town has a vibrant arts community, updated amenities for the beach including several marinas, and truly friendly people. There are wineries, numerous historical sites, massive murals, fantastic food, and numerous festivals in this little town. For more culture Washington and Richmond are not that far away
Crime
The crime rate is about one half the national average.
Medical facilities
The nearest hospital is about 24 miles in Tappahannock, Va.
Transportation
Reagan Airport and the Richmond airports are less than 50 miles. Golf carts are a popular way to get around.
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