Young Traveler Shares Dream of Settling in Quiet Virginia Town — Seeks Community Insight
VIRGINIA — A 19-year-old social media user has captured attention after sharing a heartfelt post about wanting to relocate to a small town in Virginia later in life. The young man said he plans to move in his 30s and hopes to find a peaceful community surrounded by trees, friendly people, and the simple joys of Southern living.
Dreaming of Life in a Peaceful Southern Town
In his post, the young man shared a map highlighting the region between Richmond, Danville, and Norfolk, saying he’s drawn to the idea of living somewhere with a “cute main street” and “lots of trees.” His ideal town, he wrote, would have a warm sense of community, good sweet tea, and a slower pace of life — the kind often associated with Virginia’s rural charm.
“I wanna live in a small town with a cute main street with lots of trees,” he explained. “I also need to live in a place that has good sweet tea. Idk how safe it is for LGBT people round there but I could keep to myself.”
Exploring Virginia’s Hidden Gems
The post mentioned several towns that caught his interest, including Urbanna, Gloucester, Rocky Mount, South Hill, and Suffolk. Each of these communities offers a distinct mix of history and small-town culture.
- Urbanna, located near the Rappahannock River, is known for its marina views and annual oyster festival.
- Gloucester boasts centuries-old colonial history and access to scenic waterways.
- Rocky Mount and South Hill are classic examples of peaceful Southern towns with walkable downtowns, family-owned shops, and strong local pride.
- Suffolk, the largest city in Virginia by land area, maintains a rural feel while offering more modern amenities and proximity to Hampton Roads.
These towns represent the heart of Virginia’s small-town identity — where front porch conversations, weekend markets, and local diners still define daily life.
Idk why but i rlly wanna live around here. I plan to possibly relocate in my 30’s (im 19)
byu/boatiefey inVirginia
Balancing Charm and Inclusivity
While the idea of quiet living appeals to many, the poster’s reflection on LGBTQ+ safety struck a chord online. Virginia has made progress on equality laws in recent years, but acceptance can vary between regions. Advocates encourage LGBTQ+ residents considering relocation to explore community networks, local organizations, and affirming spaces before deciding where to settle.
Groups like Equality Virginia and Side by Side RVA work to ensure safer, more inclusive environments across the state — offering guidance to individuals and families seeking supportive communities.
Community Reaction and Shared Sentiment
Many commenters resonated with his dream of slowing down and finding peace in the South, saying the desire for “a quiet place with kind people” has grown stronger among young adults nationwide. Others offered advice about which areas of Virginia might best balance affordability, natural beauty, and inclusivity.
The post serves as a reminder that for many young people, the appeal of the South lies not just in nostalgia or aesthetics — but in the hope of building a life rooted in calm, comfort, and belonging.
Have you lived in any of these Virginia towns or have advice for newcomers? Share your experience and local insight with the Saluda Standard-Sentinel community at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
