Earlier this week, Reviews.org ranked Lynchburg the #1 place in the U.S. for Millennials to move to in 2019. Some may say, “why there?" And yes, while others may not know why the area is such an awesome place to live if you are 20-40 – we do! Here are our top reasons you should consider Lynchburg, Virginia when you are searching for your next location:
Low Cost of Living
The Lynchburg region ranks 12% below the national average when it comes to cost of living. The median rent in Lynchburg is $777 per month and the average mortgage is $1100. With millennials harboring more college debt than any other generation, making ends meet is a lot easier when you can take home 12% more of your paycheck.
Outdoor Amenities
Lynchburg is located right in the middle of the Blue Ridge Parkway, Appalachian Trail, James River, and Smith Mountain Lake. The region is an outdoor lover’s paradise. The city even contains a six-mile trail that leads into downtown where you can find Percival’s Island located in the middle of the James River, which is accessible for biking, walking, or running. The area is also home to the country’s only year-round ski slope - SnowFlex Centre.
Foodie’s Dream
Lynchburg’s food scene has drastically changed over the past few years. The downtown has added over 20 new restaurants since 2016. From Waterstone Pizza to Mama Crockett’s Donuts there is something for every foodie in the region. The surrounding communities are also home to several breweries, including Beale's, Apocalypse Ale Works, and Loose Shoe. Third Street Brewery just announced its plan to open a second location in Lynchburg in 2019. P.S. Don’t miss these oysters at The Water Dog – also they are one of several eateries that allows four-legged friends.
Higher Education
The region is home to many colleges and universities, including Liberty University, Randolph College, Sweet Briar College, and University of Lynchburg. A variety of graduate programs are available at each of these institutions. One of Virginia’s top community colleges is located in the region - Central Virginia Community College, as well as a robust trade school located in Campbell County – Virginia Technical Institute. No matter where you are in your educational attainment journey there’s something for everyone.
The Arts
The arts and culture vibe in Lynchburg is booming! In December 2018, the Academy Center of the Arts reopened its historic theater after a $30 million renovation. The Academy offers a variety of performances, coordinates music festivals on the downtown riverfront and offers classes for artists of all ages. Endstation Theater Company, Wolfbane Productions, Riverview’s Art Space and the Lynchburg Symphony are just a small portion of the arts amenities you will find in Lynchburg. The city is also the host for Create Virginia – an arts and business conference for artists and makers. The region is also home to several historic landmarks including – Point of Honor, Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest, Appomattox Courthouse and Patrick Henry’s Red Hill.
Read the full list of best and worst locations on Reviews.org by clicking here.
Photos courtesy of Opportunity Lynchburg and Property One Photography.