10 Things to Know Before Moving to Woodbridge, VA
Woodbridge, Virginia’s population dropped from over 39,000 to under 4,000 after the U.S. Census Bureau made some significant changes to the city’s limits in 2011. Although the homes in this region are still technically located in Woodbridge, the bigger portion has been renamed Marumsco. Woodbridge, Virginia, has shrunk significantly, but it still has much to offer its citizens.
Washington, DC, is a vibrant metropolis teeming with opportunities, yet the cost of living here can be exorbitant for many. Woodbridge is among the most cost-effective and visually appealing suburbs of Washington, DC. It’s ideal for urbanites who want to escape to the suburbs with their active families.
Here are ten things to know before moving to Woodbridge, VA!
1. It’s in a prime location
Woodbridge is conveniently located approximately 20 miles south of Washington, D.C., and within easy driving distance of other major cities such as Alexandria and Arlington. This means that visitors and potential employees alike can quickly and easily reach the area’s many landmarks and businesses.
The Potomac River, which passes through the center of town, also makes for a great setting for various outdoor pursuits, such as canoeing, fishing, and picnics.
2. Eat at Padrino’s Pizza & Italian or The Electric Palm
You’ll find everything from chain restaurants to one-of-a-kind businesses and boutiques in Woodbridge. The town is home to a number of retail centers and plazas, including the massive Potomac Mills Mall, which is one of the largest outlet malls in the United States.
Whatever your dining preferences, from a quick bite to a special evening out, you’ll find something delicious. Padrino’s Pizza & Italian, The Electric Palm, and Bangkok Golden Thai are just a few of the best restaurants in the area. Woodbridge has everything you might want, so come here whenever the whim strikes.
3. Get around the city using the Virginia Railway Express (VRE)
Getting around the region is a breeze thanks to Woodbridge’s proximity to important highways like I-95, Route 1, and the Prince William Parkway. Commuters can also take advantage of the town’s many park-and-ride lots and buses to get to the city’s convenient public transit choices, such as the Virginia Railway Express (VRE).
In addition, the town is home to an Amtrak Auto Train station, which means locals may ship their vehicles and avoid the trouble of driving on long journeys.
4. Living here costs 19% higher than the national average
Woodbridge has one of the cheapest expenses of living in the Washington, DC, suburbs, despite being 19% more expensive than the national average. The cost of living index in Alexandria is 150, whereas it is closer to 119 in Woodbridge, where the median home price is $465,318.
Woodbridge has a higher cost of living than the state and national averages, with the yearly cost of living for a single person coming in at $53,515. This is higher than the respective figures for Virginia ($44,012) and the United States ($38,433).
5. Take part in festivals like Beerfest or STEAM Fest
The close-knit community is a great perk of life in Woodbridge. The town is home to a number of yearly festivals and celebrations, such as the Beerfest, STEAM Fest, and Battle of the Bartenders: Cocktails for a Cause.
The city also plays host to a wide variety of festivals, fairs, and fundraisers. Many green spaces have been set aside so locals can get together and enjoy nature.
6. Traffic jams are a common occurrence
Despite the city of Woodbridge’s proximity to numerous roads and public transportation stops, inhabitants nonetheless have difficulties getting to and from work every day.
Traffic jams and accidents are common during rush hour, and they can add hours to your commute. Some people may find it more difficult to get to their destinations because of this.
7. Nightlife opportunities are limited
Woodbridge has a lot of restaurants, but is it a great area to live for people who enjoy going out late? The town has a vibrant cuisine scene, but it might not be the best place to live if you’re searching for a hopping nightlife.
There are a few places to have a drink around town, but it’s not like there are dozens of them as in a bigger metropolis. The type of nightlife that keeps people out till the early hours of the morning can require people to travel outside of Woodbridge.
8. You might have to commute out of the city to get a job
Woodbridge may not have as many work prospects as other towns, but there are plenty of jobs in the surrounding areas of Northern Virginia and the District of Columbia. For people who would like not to embark on long trips to work each day, this presents a problem.
There are a few places that hire locally in Woodbridge, such as hospitals and malls, but the competition for positions can be fierce. Those who have specific skills may have to move away from their homes in order to find work.
9. Visit the Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge or Leesylvania State Park
Woodbridge is not just some town you’ll be huddled in without anything to do. Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge, one of the town’s many lovely parks, features more than 3 miles of hiking paths.
Leesylvania State Park, a hidden gem on the banks of the Potomac River, is located in nearby Woodbridge. Fishing, hiking, and boating are just some of the recreational opportunities available in the Leesylvania area.
10. It’s a safe place to live
Woodbridge’s rate of 12 for violent crimes is far lower than the national average of 22.7. At 33.2, the town also has a lower property crime rate than the national average of 35.4.
Woodbridge is a place where people can peacefully live and raise their families without worrying about their safety.
To Sum it All Up
Woodbridge is a suburb in Virginia with a lot of attractions, such as its convenient location, great restaurant scene, and fun things to do. However, the town also has a high cost of living, there are limited job opportunities, traffic problems, and limited nightlife.
