Yates Newport News, VA

Settlers first arrived to the Newport News area in 1610, forming a small rural and fishing community. After the American Civil War, the city shifted its focus with the formation of a shipyard where workers began building submarines and Navy carriers. The Yates neighborhood remained largely undeveloped until the 20th century when middle-class families began fleeing the more cramped urban areas.

A short drive brings you to some of the city's top cultural attractions like the Mariner's Museum and the Virginia Living Museum. Explore the studios and art galleries scattered throughout the downtown area, and don't miss annual events like the Celebration in Lights held during the holiday season.

Yates residents find themselves at the forefront of one of the most diverse dining scenes in the city. Just east of Warwick Boulevard sits a collection of German restaurants, Greek cafes and seafood eateries celebrating the area's maritime heritage. The neighborhood also rests near some of the best nightlife hot spots in Newport News with a selection of taverns, pubs and sports bars. Head south of the neighborhood and by Schooner's Grill for some live music in a nautical atmosphere and a happy hour that lasts all day on Sunday. Also, check out Brickhouse Tavern where you can watch the game while chowing down on blue cheese pizza. This tavern has Angry Orchard and a nice selection of popular ales on tap.

Sample the best of authentic Greek cuisine at Yanna's Taverna, a sunny little restaurant serving up some of the best hummus, gyros and lamb shank in Hampton Roads. If you're leaning toward seafood, check out the catch of the day or grab a plate of fried calamari. Order a bottle of Mythos for a slightly sweet complement to your meal, and don't leave without sampling the Greek yogurt piled high with nuts, fresh strawberries and a drizzle of honey.

Indulge in crab soup, salmon with pesto and other gourmet culinary creations right outside of the neighborhood at Fin Seafood, a laid-back fine dining establishment where locals come to celebrate birthdays and anniversaries or simply enjoy an upscale date night. A team of top chefs serves up favorites like seared-scallop-topped risotto, crab cakes and a lump crab dip.

Enjoy easy access to the rest of Newport News via Warwick Boulevard, or take a short drive to Interstate 64 to commute to other areas of Hampton Roads. Residents rarely have trouble finding parking along the streets in this car-dominant neighborhood, and you can always catch a quick ride into downtown by calling Uber or a local cab service such as Apollo Taxi.

Hampton Roads Transit services the Yates neighborhood with a few bus stops along Nettles Drive and Warwick Boulevard. For a greener option, you can always cruise down the area's bike-friendly roads when the weather permits. Keep in mind that you cannot accomplish most errands on foot due to the neighborhood's scattered amenities.

When you want to kick back on a sunny day in Newport News, head to one of the nearby public parks for some rest and relaxation. Riverview Farm Park stands as a community favorite with a skate park and the Fantasy Farm Playground that covers 30,000 square feet. Stop by in the winter to sled with neighbors down the popular sledding hill. This dog-friendly park also holds Fido Field, the city's first dog park. When you're feeling peckish, grab a snack from the concessions stand on the weekends during the warmer months.

Given the nature of the community, you won't find many annual events in the parks, but most residents head to Newport News for a variety of festivals and concerts.

Average home prices, transportation costs and entertainment prices bring the overall cost of living in Yates a touch above average for Newport News. However, rental rates fall around $679 a month for a one-bedroom home, lower than the city average of $782. Taking the bus downtown generally costs $1.75, and gas prices hover 2 percent below the national average. When you go out for a pint at a local pub, expect to pay around $6 to $7 for your favorite ale.

The Yates neighborhood doesn't have much of a shopping scene with only a few basic amenities, but residents can take a short drive to the corner of Boxley and Jefferson to discover a treasure trove of boutiques, resale shops and affordable fashion favorites. Patrick Henry Mall stands as the area's retail heart, featuring a selection of big-box retailers.

For fine jewelry that carries a touch of elegance and class head over to Binder's Jewelers on Warwick Boulevard. Stop by to browse a collection of hand-crafted pieces or to get your current jewelry or watch repaired. If you have trouble finding what you need, let the eager staff help you find the perfect accessories to complement your outfit. Just be aware, this local favorite is closed Friday thru Sunday.

For new and gently used toys and children's clothing at prices that don't break the bank, see what's in stock at Once Upon a Child. Located right north of the neighborhood at the Patrick Henry Mall, search through color-coordinated racks of apparel for babies, toddlers and older kids, or treat your little one to an almost-new kitchen play set. You also find cribs, rockers and playpens from trusted brands.

For your weekly grocery shopping, head to the nearby Food Lion, or grab some bulk food items at Costco. Check out the farmers market at Oyster Point for an assortment of fresh fruits and vegetables from local growers.