Many moving companies DMV report an increase in clients heading to Virginia. The state offers strong job growth in healthcare, tech, and government. Areas like Arlington, Richmond, and Fairfax attract professionals with steady employment options. Families choose Virginia for its well-rated public schools and safe neighborhoods. Buyers also enjoy a mix of home styles, from rural farmhouses to walkable suburban homes. Urban areas such as Alexandria give access to restaurants, transit, and cultural events. At the same time, rural counties offer more space and lower housing costs. Virginia’s central location makes travel to DC, Maryland, or the Carolinas simple. These benefits help explain why there are several states people are moving from to Virginia, each with different reasons but similar goals.
1. Maryland: Seeking lower housing costs and tax relief
Many families are moving from Maryland to Virginia to find better value for their money. In Montgomery County, the median home price is around $560,000. In contrast, homes in Fairfax County often average closer to $520,000. Loudoun County, while slightly higher, offers newer developments with more space. This price difference matters, especially for buyers seeking long-term investment. Areas like Alexandria offer access to Metro stations and downtown DC, much like Silver Spring, but often with lower property costs.
There are also clear tax differences between Maryland and Virginia. Virginia has lower property taxes, and income tax rates are more favorable for middle-income households. These savings can add up yearly. Commute times remain similar whether you’re in Rockville or Reston, thanks to major routes like I-495 and I-66. Public schools in Fairfax and Loudoun counties consistently receive high ratings, matching the standards of many Maryland districts. This makes the move easier for families prioritizing education. Virginia offers financial advantages without sacrificing school quality or access to DC-area jobs.
2. California: Looking for affordability and less regulation
Many long distance moving companies Northern VA report growing interest from California residents. The average home price in cities like San Jose or Los Angeles often exceeds $900,000. In comparison, buyers in Fairfax or Prince William County can find homes closer to $500,000. This affordability makes Virginia more attractive for both families and professionals. Virginia also offers a more business-friendly climate. Entrepreneurs face fewer regulations and lower operating costs. For example, starting an LLC in Virginia often costs less than in California. The change in pace appeals to small business owners looking for fewer restrictions.
Nature lovers still have options. While California has beaches and mountains, Virginia offers Shenandoah National Park, the Blue Ridge Mountains, and access to the coast. These outdoor spaces support an active lifestyle year-round. The tech industry continues to grow in Richmond and Northern Virginia. Companies like AWS and Capital One offer new roles, drawing skilled workers east. Many also find the daily routine easier. There’s less traffic, more parking, and a better balance between work and personal time.
3. New York: Trading urban stress for better balance
Many moving companies in Virginia are helping New Yorkers relocate in search of more balance. Living in the New York City metro area often means high costs and limited space. In Manhattan, the average apartment costs over $1 million. In contrast, buyers in Arlington or Fairfax can find townhomes or single-family homes between $500,000 and $700,000. These homes often include a yard, driveway, and extra rooms for home offices. Virginia also offers more peace and quiet. Suburbs like Vienna and Falls Church provide tree-lined streets and strong public schools. At the same time, residents stay connected through Amtrak service to New York, Philadelphia, and Boston. This makes weekend visits or work trips easy.
Remote workers benefit from extra space. Many Northern Virginia homes include finished basements or extra bedrooms perfect for home offices. Yet, the region still feels connected to city life. There are diverse restaurants, museums, and cultural centers throughout the area. For those leaving the fast pace of New York, Virginia offers a more relaxed lifestyle without giving up convenience or community.
4. Florida: Returning retirees and family connections
Retirees from Florida are choosing Virginia for both personal and practical reasons. Some move to be closer to children and grandchildren. Others prefer a four-season climate after years in Florida’s heat. Cities like Roanoke and Charlottesville offer mild summers, scenic fall seasons, and access to outdoor activities year-round. These places also provide strong medical services, which are important for older adults. For example, Carilion Clinic in Roanoke offers specialized senior care and hospital access with shorter wait times than many parts of Florida. Job seekers from Northern and Central Florida are also relocating for better opportunities. Fields like healthcare, education, and government are strong in Virginia. Roanoke, Richmond, and Northern Virginia continue to attract skilled workers with competitive salaries and lower living costs.
Buyers often choose communities in Arlington for the convenience and location. For instance, movers in Arlington VA note that retirees and professionals alike appreciate walkable streets, public transit, and nearby medical centers. Compared to Tampa, where average home prices are now over $400,000, Roanoke homes average closer to $290,000—making the move both smart and affordable.
5. North Carolina: Short move for new careers
Professionals working with commercial movers in Virginia often come from nearby North Carolina. The short distance makes relocation simple, especially for those looking to advance their careers. Cities like Raleigh offer a strong job market, but Virginia presents more openings in tech, finance, and government. For example, Richmond and Northern Virginia have major employers such as Capital One, Booz Allen Hamilton, and Amazon Web Services. Although both states offer a mix of city and nature, Virginia draws more professionals with its higher average salaries and job diversity. Charlottesville and Alexandria are top picks for those moving from Raleigh. Charlottesville has a university-town feel with strong healthcare and education jobs. Meanwhile, Alexandria offers proximity to Washington, DC, along with walkable neighborhoods and public transit.
While the cost of living may be slightly higher in Alexandria, salaries often match the difference. In Charlottesville, the balance between affordability and quality of life remains steady. Both locations maintain easy access to the Blue Ridge Mountains and coastal areas, giving newcomers the lifestyle they want along with stronger career options.
6. Georgia: Career-driven relocation and better public schools
Professionals working with local movers Virginia often arrive from the Atlanta metro area. Many are relocating for jobs in tech, defense, or the federal government. Northern Virginia, in particular, draws interest due to employers like the Pentagon, Lockheed Martin, and Amazon HQ2. In Georgia, the job market is strong, but Virginia offers more positions in public service and national security. Another reason families choose Virginia is public education. Schools in Fairfax and Loudoun counties often rank higher than those in parts of metro Atlanta. For example, Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology is nationally recognized. These school options influence relocation decisions for families prioritizing academics.
Daily travel is also easier in some Virginia areas. While Atlanta is known for traffic delays, Virginia provides Metro rail access, commuter buses, and carpool lanes. This helps reduce commute time for workers heading into DC. Culturally, both states offer dining, sports, and shopping options. However, cities like Arlington and Alexandria match Atlanta’s energy while offering shorter commutes and stronger schools. These differences explain why Georgia is one of the states people are moving from to Virginia.
7. Texas: Federal careers and more structured regions
A rising number of federal employees are transferring from Texas to Virginia. Many work in defense, cybersecurity, or government contracting and need to be closer to Washington, DC. Regions like Fairfax, Arlington, and Prince William counties offer direct access to federal offices and agencies. Job hubs such as the Pentagon and Fort Belvoir continue to attract professionals from cities like Dallas and San Antonio. Virginia suburbs also offer more structured communities. Planned neighborhoods in Ashburn or Springfield include schools, shopping, and parks all within a few miles. This appeals to workers seeking convenience and routine in their daily lives. Although housing in Northern Virginia may be higher than in parts of Texas, salaries often make up for the difference.
Public transportation is another factor. Metro lines and commuter rails reduce the need for long drives, especially compared to the traffic in Houston or Austin. The overall balance of job opportunities, planned developments, and commute options makes Virginia a practical choice for federal workers relocating from Texas.
8. Illinois: Leaving high taxes and harsh winters
Cold winters and high taxes are key reasons Illinois residents are heading south. Chicago homeowners often face property taxes exceeding 2%, while Fairfax and Loudoun counties average closer to 1%. This difference leads to long-term savings. On top of that, Virginia’s milder winters appeal to those tired of snowstorms and freezing temperatures. Remote workers are also making the move. Many leave small apartments in Chicago for larger homes in Virginia suburbs. In areas like Ashburn or Chantilly, it’s common to find three-bedroom homes with home office space for under $700,000. That extra room makes remote work more manageable.
Families appreciate Virginia’s school systems as well. Loudoun County Public Schools and Fairfax County Public Schools are both highly rated and known for academic performance and safety. Professionals in finance, defense, and consulting continue to relocate for work. Northern Virginia offers positions with firms like Deloitte, Booz Allen Hamilton, and Capital One. These are just a few reasons why Illinois is one of the states people are moving from to Virginia.
9. New Jersey: Avoiding congestion and high housing costs
Rising costs in New Jersey are leading many residents to consider a new start. High property taxes, expensive insurance, and inflated housing prices are common issues in places like Bergen and Essex counties. In contrast, Virginia’s suburbs offer more space, lower taxes, and family-friendly neighborhoods. Communities such as Arlington, Vienna, and Burke provide a safer environment, well-rated public schools, and access to green spaces. These qualities appeal to people seeking a better balance between work and home life. In addition, commutes tend to be more manageable, with Metro access and less congestion on major highways.
Virginia also has a strong job market in health, education, and government. Positions at Inova, George Mason University, and federal agencies draw professionals from New Jersey. The growing demand for skilled workers continues to attract newcomers each year. Popular moves from New Jersey to Virginia include:
- Bergen County to Arlington for federal jobs and Metro access
- Middlesex County to Vienna for better schools and more space
- Essex County to Burke for quieter streets and family housing
10. Pennsylvania: Following family or job relocation
Relocations from Pennsylvania to Virginia are often tied to work or family. Many young adults move for jobs in healthcare, education, or government. Employers like VCU Health, Virginia Tech, and federal agencies in Northern Virginia continue to bring in skilled workers. At the same time, retirees follow adult children who have already settled in places like Richmond or Fairfax. Adjusting to life in Virginia is often simple. The climate is similar, with four seasons but slightly milder winters. Daily life feels familiar, especially in suburban areas with easy access to shopping, parks, and medical care.
Suburban housing is another draw. Buyers moving from Pennsylvania find more options in places like Chesterfield, Ashburn, or Manassas. Many neighborhoods offer newer homes, walking trails, and community centers. These features appeal to both families and retirees. Common relocation routes include:
- Philadelphia to Richmond for state and healthcare jobs
- Harrisburg to Fairfax for federal positions and public schools
- Allentown to Ashburn for suburban comfort and tech careers
What these moves say about Virginia today
Virginia continues to attract new residents for practical and long-term reasons. People come for jobs, better schools, and a more balanced lifestyle. Whether they are leaving behind high taxes, crowded cities, or long commutes, many find Virginia offers a better fit. The state supports a range of needs, from family-friendly suburbs to job-rich metro areas. Retirees appreciate the mild climate and strong healthcare network. At the same time, professionals benefit from access to top employers and reliable transportation. New arrivals can enjoy both quiet neighborhoods and active urban centers. These patterns show why there are so many states people are moving from to Virginia. The combination of opportunity, comfort, and value continues to draw interest.
