Best Places to Live in Virginia for Students: Top Cities with Affordable & Student-Friendly Housing

Virginia is home to some of the best places to live in Virginia for students, offering an ideal blend of affordability, quality education, and vibrant student life. With over 40 universities and colleges—including renowned institutions like the University of Virginia and Virginia Tech—students have a wealth of academic choices.

Recent studies rank Virginia among the top 10 states for higher education, making it one of the best places to live in Virginia for students who value both academic excellence and a balanced lifestyle. For those seeking affordable housing and excellent public transportation, these top student-friendly cities stand out.

10 Best Places To Live In Virginia For Students

Whether you prefer college towns or suburbs, there’s a wide range of best areas to live in Virginia that support student life. For example, in 2025, Colonial Village in Arlington once again ranked as one of the best places to live in Virginia. This lively neighborhood, home to just over 3,000 residents, earned top ratings for its public schools, health and fitness, commute, nightlife, and family-friendly environment.

Here’s a list of the best places to live in Virginia, along with great facilities for student housing:

1. Centerville

Centerville, Virginia, is a top choice for students seeking a welcoming and well-connected place to live and study. With a population of around 75,000 and a median age of 36, the city is home to a lively mix of students and young professionals. Known for its excellent education system, Centerville offers access to a variety of highly rated public and private institutions, making it one of the best places to live in Virginia for students.

It’s also one of the best places to live in Virginia for young adults, thanks to its job opportunities, nightlife, and access to public transport. One of the key advantages of living in Centerville is the wide range of student accommodation options available. Whether you're looking for budget-friendly shared spaces or fully furnished private apartments, Centerville has housing solutions to suit different preferences and financial plans, ensuring a comfortable and enriching student experience.

2. Blacksburg

Blacksburg stands out as one of the best places to live in Virginia for students, thanks to its college-town atmosphere and top-tier education. Home to Virginia Tech, one of the top universities in Virginia, the city offers excellent academic resources, cutting-edge research facilities, and a strong sense of community. 

With a low cost of living, stunning outdoor spaces like the Huckleberry Trail, and cultural hubs like the Moss Arts Center, Blacksburg perfectly balances academics and lifestyle. The town’s safety, student-friendly amenities, and thriving tech industry make it an ideal destination for higher education and personal growth.

3. Fort Belvoir

Fort Belvoir is a top pick in Virginia. It offers safety, affordability, and a strong academic setting for students. The military base provides a safe and calm environment, perfect for focused studies. Living costs are below the national average. This is great for students looking for affordable student housing.

It may not have the thrill of bigger cities, but its well-funded schools offer great resources, including advanced labs and libraries. The supportive learning environment and experienced faculty ensure quality education. Fort Belvoir is also gaining popularity for offering affordable student housing in Virginia, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious students. Whether you're relocating for studies or looking to escape the hustle of larger cities, Fort Belvoir provides a peaceful lifestyle with affordable student housing in Virginia. 

4. Kannapolis

Kannapolis is a hidden gem for students looking for a balance of education, affordability, and opportunity. Home to the North Carolina Research Campus (NCRC), it’s a hub for biotechnology, health sciences, and innovation. 

Finding student housing is easy, with affordable Kannapolis student housing both on and off campus. The city blends small-town charm with modern development, offering green spaces like Village Park, a revitalized downtown, and easy access to Charlotte’s universities. 

Whether you're pursuing research, studying nearby, or just looking for a welcoming place to live, Kannapolis provides a supportive and inspiring environment for students. The cost of living in Virginia for students can vary by city, but places like Kannapolis offer a great balance between comfort and affordability. For budget-conscious learners, understanding the cost of living in Virginia for students is key to planning a smooth academic journey.

5. Chantilly

Chantilly is one of the best places to live in Virginia for students who love an active population. The city is home to around 23,000 individuals and boasts a high number of parks, providing plenty of room for recreation and socializing. 

The education system here is good, with 22 private schools educating over 3,600 students and 14 public schools educating around 15,000 students. For students seeking higher education, there are several institutions in the area, like George Mason University, Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA), and Potomac College Herndon, along with cheap housing options for students in Virginia that make it easier to live and study affordably. 

6. Harrisonburg

Among the best towns to live in Virginia, Harrisonburg is a community built for students. With James Madison University (JMU) at its heart, one of the top universities in Virginia, the city is full of energy, creativity, and community spirit. Whether you’re grabbing coffee downtown, hiking in the Shenandoah Valley, or cheering on the Dukes at a game, there’s always something happening. 

Finding student accommodation in Harrisonburg is easy, with plenty of affordable options both on and off campus. With great food, a welcoming vibe, and growing job opportunities, Harrisonburg is more than a place to study—it’s a place to belong.

7. Falls Church

Falls Church, Virginia, is renowned for its commitment to education, offering a supportive environment for students. The city is served by Meridian High School, which boasts a graduation rate of 98.6%. This impressive statistic reflects the community's dedication to academic excellence and student success. 

Additionally, the presence of nearby institutions like Falls Church High School, part of Fairfax County Public Schools, further underscores the area's focus on quality education. For students seeking a welcoming and close-knit community, Falls Church stands out as one of the best places to live in Virginia.

8. Richmond

Richmond, the capital city, is one of the best cities to live in Virginia for students seeking a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With a population of over 225,000, the city offers plenty of parks, museums, and entertainment options. 

Students can enjoy affordable student housing in Richmond, and the cost of living is reasonable compared to other major cities. Richmond’s public transportation system makes it easy to navigate, and its diverse neighborhoods cater to different lifestyles.

9. Mount Vernon

Mount Vernon, known for its historical significance, is also one of the best places to live in Virginia for students who prefer a quiet, suburban environment. With a population of around 13,000, it offers a close-knit community that fosters confidence in students. 

While schooling options are limited, the quality of education is strong. The place is the home of some of the top universities in Virginia, like Mount Vernon High School, Northern Virginia Community College, and George Mason University.

10. Roanoke

Roanoke, located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, is a great choice for students who love scenic surroundings and outdoor activities. With a population of around 100,000, it provides a small-town feel with urban conveniences. 

Roanoke is known for its affordability, making it one of the best places to live in Virginia for students on a budget. Student accommodation options are diverse, from dormitories to budget-friendly apartments. 

The city has an exciting arts and cultural scene featuring local theatres like Mill Mountain Theatre, music festivals like the Blue Ridge Folklife Festival, and museums like the Taubman Museum of Art, making it a lively choice for those seeking student apartments in Virginia with a vibrant lifestyle.

Student Housing in the US

Securing suitable student housing in the US is a crucial aspect of the college experience, with costs varying across institutions. For instance, at the University of Virginia, on-campus housing and dining expenses average $17,514 annually, with a consistent 3% increase over the past five years.

Amber Student provides a comprehensive database of verified university housing in Virginia near major institutions like Virginia Tech, the University of Virginia, and George Mason University. Our platform simplifies the housing search by offering a range of university housing in Virginia options; from dorms to private flats, these good places to live in Virginia ensure students have the support and affordability they need for academic success.

Finding the right accommodation in Virginia is key to a comfortable and successful academic journey. With diverse housing options (shared apartments, studios, and dorms) in some of the best places to live in Virginia, amber makes the process seamless. Choose from verified accommodations near top universities worldwide and secure your spot today!