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Colonial Beach, VA

Area Guide

Unwind in a small-town setting on the Potomac

Suburban Historic Riverside

Colonial Beach sits right where the Potomac River widens into something that feels more like a bay, giving this small Virginia town a waterfront identity unlike anywhere else in the region. Founded in the 1600s, it carries centuries of history in its street names and older cottages, yet the town moves at an unhurried pace that draws people looking for a quieter way to live. Nestled in Westmoreland County, it holds the distinction of being the birthplace of both President George Washington and President James Monroe, making it one of the most historically significant stretches of land in the Commonwealth.

The housing mix here leans toward character-filled options: cozy waterfront cottages, modest single-family homes, and a growing number of updated rental properties that offer river views at a fraction of what comparable coastal towns charge. Apartment communities in Colonial Beach tend to be smaller in scale, with a laid-back residential feel rather than the high-rise density of larger cities. Neighborhoods like the downtown strip along the boardwalk sit just steps from the water, while quieter residential streets branch inland.

For those who want small-town atmosphere with genuine historical roots and easy access to both Richmond and Washington, D.C., Colonial Beach offers a rare combination of affordability, scenery, and authentic Virginia character.

Demographics

Median Household Income

$53,708

Average: $78,958

Education

916

Residents Have a Degree

Job Market

1,726

Workers Employed

Age Distribution
Get a sense of this area's population profile.

Median Age

50 Years

Largest Age Group

60-69 Years

Approximately 17% of Residents

Under 20

20%

Over 65

29%

Housing Distribution

Colonial Beach has more homeowners than renters.

Renters
34%
Non-Renters
66%

Education Distribution

Review this city's overall education levels.

Bachelor's or Higher
18%
Other Education
82%

Getting Around

Fairly Walkable

Walkability

40 / 100

Exceptionally Drivable

Drivability

100 / 100

Fairly Bikeable

Bikeability

40 / 100

Schools

Washington District Elementary

Public

Grades PK-5

385 Students

Washington District Elementary School

Public

Grades PK-5

385 Students

Colonial Beach Elementary School

Public

Grades PK-8

360 Students

Colonial Beach Elementary

Public

Grades PK-8

360 Students

Colonial Beach Elementary

Public

Grades PK-8

360 Students

Colonial Beach Elementary School

Public

Grades PK-8

360 Students

Colonial Beach High School

Public

Grades 6-12

214 Students

Colonial Beach High

Public

Grades 6-12

214 Students

Colonial Beach High

Public

Grades 6-12

214 Students

Colonial Beach High School

Public

Grades 6-12

214 Students

Points of Interest

Top Apartments in Colonial Beach

Houses for Rent in Colonial Beach

Living in Colonial Beach

History

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Colonial Beach earned its name and reputation as a Potomac River resort town in the late 1800s, when steamboats brought visitors from Washington, D.C. to its sandy shores. The town's historic boardwalk and waterfront district still reflect this era, with vintage cottages and buildings that once served as hotels and entertainment venues. George Washington was born nearby at Popes Creek Plantation, and the area retains connections to Virginia's colonial past through local markers and sites along the Northern Neck.

Today, you'll find reminders of Colonial Beach's resort heyday throughout the downtown area, from the restored Boardwalk to historic homes that line the streets near the water. The town celebrates its heritage during annual events and maintains a small-town character shaped by generations of summer visitors and watermen. Several buildings from the early 20th century have been preserved, giving the community a nostalgic feel that appeals to history enthusiasts and those seeking a quieter riverside lifestyle.

Parks

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Colonial Beach sits along the Potomac River, giving residents easy access to a scenic waterfront that serves as the town's centerpiece for outdoor recreation. Colonial Beach Town Park stretches along the shore, offering a sandy beach, picnic areas, a fishing pier, and a boat launch. The Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail passes through the region, ideal for hiking and nature walks. Nearby Westmoreland State Park, just a short drive away, features rugged riverside cliffs, swimming, camping, hiking trails, and fossil hunting along the Potomac, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.

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Methodology

† Our analysis of utilities, groceries, transportation, healthcare, home prices, and other goods and services is sourced from the Cost of Living Index, a respected benchmark published by the Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER) that provides a thorough overview of living expenses across different regions.

Rent data is provided by CoStar Group’s Market Trend reports. As the industry leader in commercial real estate information, analytics, and news, CoStar conducts extensive research to produce and maintain a comprehensive database of commercial real estate information. We combine this data with public record to provide the most up-to-date rental information available.

Consumer goods, services, and home prices are sourced from the Cost of Living Index published by the Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER). The data on this page is updated quarterly. It was last published in June 2026.

Demographic information comes from Neustar and combines detailed address data with U.S. Census and American Community Survey statistics to produce reliable local estimates.