Median Age
50 Years
Largest Age Group
60-69 Years
Approximately 17% of Residents
Under 20
20%
Over 65
29%
Area Guide
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.
Median Household Income
$53,708
Average: $78,958
Education
916
Residents Have a Degree
Job Market
1,726
Workers Employed
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.
Education Distribution
Review this city's overall education levels.
Explore how walkable, bikeable, drivable, and transit-friendly Colonial Beach, VA is for everyday living.
Fairly Walkable
Walkability
Exceptionally Drivable
Drivability
Fairly Bikeable
Bikeability
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
Public
Grades PK-8
360 Students
Public
Grades PK-8
360 Students
Colonial Beach Elementary School
Public
Grades PK-8
360 Students
Public
Grades 6-12
214 Students
Public
Grades 6-12
214 Students
Public
Grades 6-12
214 Students
Public
Grades 6-12
214 Students
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† 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.