Moving to Virginia checklist: Secure employment in Virginia. Research cost of living variations. Find suitable housing options. Register your vehicle locally. Obtain a Virginia driver's license. Explore local school systems. Understand Virginia tax obligations. Create or update your budget. Research local healthcare services. Familiarize with state laws and regulations.
Secure employment in Virginia.
To secure employment in Virginia, leverage the state's diverse and stable job market, which includes government, military, tech, and Fortune 500 companies like Capital One and Northrop Grumman. Discover how [securing a job](https://www.d1moving.com/blog/moving-to-virginia-checklist) can also help establish residency in the state.
Research cost of living variations.
When moving to Virginia, it's crucial to research the variations in the cost of living, which can differ significantly depending on the location. For example, cities like Arlington and Alexandria have costs 31-37% higher than the national average, while cities like Richmond, Blacksburg, and Roanoke have costs 4-8% lower than the national average. For an accurate assessment of these differences, you can utilize the Cost Of Living Calculator to better understand the financial landscape of your potential new home in Virginia.
Find suitable housing options.
To find suitable housing options in Virginia, utilize Virginia Housing's resources, which include specialty programs, financing options, and tools for renters, homebuyers, and homeowners, such as the Virginia HousingSearch database for rental housing and various grants and programs for homebuyers.
Register your vehicle locally.
To register your vehicle in Virginia, it is essential to follow several key steps. First, you must obtain a Virginia driver's license. Next, you need to ensure that you have a vehicle safety inspection sticker. Titling your vehicle in the state is a critical requirement, along with passing an emissions inspection if it is applicable to your vehicle. Furthermore, meeting Virginia insurance requirements is mandatory. You will also need to register your vehicle at a DMV Customer Service Center within 30 days of moving to the state to complete the process successfully.
Obtain a Virginia driver's license.
To obtain a Virginia driver's license, it is essential to apply within 60 days of moving to the state. Applicants are required to provide documentation that includes proof of identity, residency, legal presence, and Social Security number. Additionally, you must pass both a vision test and a road test. To streamline the process, you can start your application online before visiting the DMV. This efficient preparation ensures a smoother experience when obtaining your license in Virginia.
Explore local school systems.
To explore local school systems in Virginia, particularly in Virginia Beach, you can visit the Virginia Beach City Public Schools website, which provides information on their commitment to preparing students, the Graduate Profile, and various school statistics, as well as updates on school meetings and initiatives. For schools in Arlington, the Arlington Public Schools website offers details on their programs, teacher certifications, graduation rates, and upcoming events, providing a comprehensive view of the school system's performance and activities.
Understand Virginia tax obligations.
Understanding Virginia tax obligations is essential for residents, part-year residents, and certain nonresidents, as they must file a state tax return if their Virginia Adjusted Gross Income exceeds specific thresholds. For single individuals, this threshold is $11,950, while for married couples filing jointly, it is $23,900. It is crucial to familiarize yourself with the specific tax rates and filing deadlines, including the possibility of an automatic six-month extension. For more detailed guidance, the Brighttax website provides an in-depth overview of these obligations.
Create or update your budget.
To create or update your budget for moving to Virginia, start by making a full home inventory, then determine whether you will DIY or hire a moving company, and list all associated costs including packing, moving, and unpacking. Allocate a buffer for unexpected expenses, prioritize your necessities, and regularly adjust your budget as prices and priorities change. For more guidance, consider visiting this Moving Budget Guide to learn more about strategic planning for your upcoming relocation.
Research local healthcare services.
When researching local healthcare services in Virginia, it is essential to explore providers like Virginia HealthCare Services, which offers Medicare-certified home health services, skilled nursing, aide services, and specialized programs such as wound management and congestive heart failure care. Another provider to consider is UVA Health, which stands out with its world-class academic medical center, Level 1 trauma center, and a network of primary and specialty care clinics, delivering comprehensive and innovative healthcare across the state. Additionally, the HCA Virginia Health System offers a comprehensive provider network with multiple hospitals, emergency rooms, and outpatient centers, specializing in areas like cardiology, oncology, and orthopedic care.
Familiarize with state laws and regulations.
To familiarize yourself with Virginia's state laws and regulations, it is essential to establish residency by living in the state for more than 183 days. Key steps include updating your address with the USPS, obtaining a Virginia driver's license within 60 days, registering your vehicle, and registering to vote, among other requirements. For a comprehensive guide, you can visit the Checklist for Virginia Residency Requirements, which provides detailed information on the process.