Key Takeaways
- Roanoke, Virginia, located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, is one of Investopedia’s best places to retire.
- The cost of living in Roanoke is lower than the national average, with median home values and rents less than those in other states.
- From hiking and biking to museums and festivals, Roanoke offers something for every retiree.
Roanoke is known as the “Star City of the South,” and it’s one of Investopedia’s 100 best places to retire. Nestled in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, it’s the largest metropolitan city along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Situated in the Roanoke Valley in Roanoke County, it features the iconic Roanoke Star (also known as the Mill Mountain Star)—the world’s largest illuminated freestanding star.
Roanoke is fast becoming a popular destination for retirees, especially those who want to settle into an affordable, quiet life with access to recreation, arts, and culture, and take in its natural beauty.
Small-City Living and Community
Roanoke appeals to anyone looking for safe, small-city living without the pressures of a big city. It has an estimated population of 97,912. As much as 17.8% of the city’s residents are 65 and older. The city is widely regarded as a friendly, community-oriented place to live. Its vibrant downtown is expanding and boasts attractions, events, hotels, restaurants, and residential living.
The downtown core is highly walkable and bikeable. The Star Line Trolley runs in the city center for free every 20 minutes between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Monday through Friday. If you’re traveling outside downtown, Valley Metro provides public transit in the Roanoke Valley, and Smart Way Bus connects downtown with the city’s regional airport and the New River Valley…