Virginia’s population landscape has been evolving rapidly, with several cities drawing in new residents thanks to job opportunities, affordable housing, and community vitality. Here are the top 3 fastest-growing locales in Virginia capturing headlines—and why they’re booming.
1. Woodbridge (Prince William County)
“America’s fastest-growing suburb”
From 2018 to 2023, Woodbridge saw a staggering 887% population surge, making it the fastest-growing large suburb in the country. With 2020’s population around 44,668, its exponential growth reflects broader migration trends in Northern Virginia.
Why the boom?
- Strategic location: Just 20–30 minutes from Washington, D.C., along I‑95 and serviced by two Virginia Railway Express stations.
- Affordability: Median home prices hover around $500,000, significantly lower than D.C.’s and NYC’s averages.
- Employment access: Commuter-friendly for government, tech, and federal workforces.
- Quality of life: Amenities include Potomac Mills mall, parks like Leesylvania State Park and Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge, minor league baseball, and scenic riverfront living.
Drawbacks to consider
- Housing demand has escalated; cost of living is ~45% above the national average .
- Crime data varies: one source says violent/property crime is higher vs. U.S., another suggests it’s 71% lower than the national average .
- Some areas feel suburban sprawl, with limit in walkable neighborhoods.
2. Earlysville (Charlottesville area)
“Rural Virginia’s breakout star”
According to World Population Review, Earlysville leads Virginia cities (pop. >1,000) with a 7.18% annualized growth from 2020 to 2025—a rate only slightly below McGaheysville and Rio in the same region.
What’s fueling Earlysville’s growth
- Exurban appeal: Nestled outside Charlottesville, attractive for remote workers seeking rural charm with easy metro access.
- New housing stock: Development of modern subdivisions attracts families & professionals.
- Rich lifestyle choices: Proximity to national parks, vineyards, and cultural scenes in Charlottesville bolster its appeal.
Challenges
- Infrastructure is playing catch‑up—schools, roads, and utilities are under strain amidst rapid growth.
- Job opportunities are tied to Charlottesville, limiting local employment diversity.
3. Suffolk (Southampton County)
“The city blending suburbia with Southern charm”
Suffolk rose from 94,342 (2020) to about 100,690 by 2023—gaining 6.7% growth in just three years, making it one of the state’s fastest-growing cities .
Growth drivers
- Economic diversification: Booming professional services, healthcare, manufacturing, and retail industries have bolstered employment .
- Real estate surge: Business growth rate of 9.55%, housing market appreciation of 9.28% attract both investors and homeowners .
- Balanced living: Affordable homes, access to parks, and a blend of city and rural lifestyles lure families and retirees.
Considerations
- Some residents note slow pace of development and limited cultural entertainment—though infrastructure projects are on the rise.
- Quality of rural healthcare and education varies by district.
Virginia’s Broader Growth Picture
- Richmond-area counties like New Kent (+14.4%), Goochland (+13.9%), Chesterfield (+9.5%), and Louisa (+5.4%) are among the fastest-growing in recent years.
- Exurban migration: Post-pandemic shifts show people moving outward from metro cores, especially toward rural and suburban areas like Earlysville.
- Economic impact: Population growth boosts housing markets but also intensifies demand for schools, roads, and services.
Moving Forward
Virginia is experiencing a shift:
- Urban-density cities like Richmond and Northern Virginia are stabilized or slowly growing.
- In contrast, exurban and suburban areas are expanding fast—driven by affordability, remote work, and infrastructure improvements.
For potential movers:
- Define your priorities: Commuting ease vs. cost; city amenities vs. rural peace.
- Check ongoing development: New schools, highways, healthcare facilities.
- Analyze housing trends: Are prices and taxes rising faster than wages?
- Assess lifestyle compatibility: Community engagement, local culture, and future city vision.
Final Take
- Woodbridge offers remarkable growth and suburban amenities but comes at a premium.
- Earlysville is rapidly emerging as a top exurban option for those seeking calm and affordable living near Charlottesville.
- Suffolk provides a well-rounded growth experience balanced with affordability and local charm.
Ultimately, choosing the right Virginia locale means balancing lifestyle, budget, and long-term community trajectory. Each city—Woodbridge, Earlysville, and Suffolk—offers distinct advantages that align with varying needs and visions for home.