Bedford, located in the heart of Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains, offers a charming small-town atmosphere combined with a rich history and stunning natural landscapes. Known for its beautiful parks, historic architecture, and a strong sense of community, Bedford provides an ideal setting for families, retirees, and anyone seeking a peaceful, suburban lifestyle. This article explores the best residential areas in Bedford, highlighting their characteristics, housing options, and average prices.
Table of Contents
Downtown Bedford
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Downtown Bedford is the cultural heart of the city, featuring local shops, restaurants, and historic sites. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a vibrant atmosphere and easy access to amenities.
Characteristics of the Downtown Bedford
* Culture: Rich history with local art galleries and museums.
* Transportation: Well-served by local transit options; walkable area.
* Services: Grocery stores, pharmacies, boutiques, and dining options.
* Environment: Lively and community-oriented.
Housing Options in the Downtown Bedford
Historic homes, Townhouses, Modern apartments.
Average Home Prices in the Downtown Bedford
* Buying: $180,000 – $300,000
* Renting: $1,000 – $1,500/month
Lake Vista
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Lake Vista is a serene residential area surrounding a beautiful lake. It’s ideal for nature lovers and those who appreciate outdoor recreational activities.
Characteristics of the Lake Vista
* Culture: Focus on outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, and picnics.
* Transportation: Car is necessary; street parking available.
* Services: Limited, mainly residential with local parks.
* Environment: Tranquil and family-friendly.
Housing Options in the Lake Vista
Single-family homes, Lakefront properties.
Average Home Prices in the Lake Vista
* Buying: $250,000 – $400,000
* Renting: $1,200 – $1,800/month
Bedford Hills
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Bedford Hills is a suburban community known for its spacious homes and excellent school district, making it perfect for families looking for a quiet lifestyle.
Characteristics of the Bedford Hills
* Culture: Strong community involvement and family-oriented activities.
* Transportation: Primarily car-dependent; bike paths available.
* Services: Nearby schools, grocery stores, and recreational facilities.
* Environment: Quiet and residential.
Housing Options in the Bedford Hills
Single-family homes, Larger lot houses.
Average Home Prices in the Bedford Hills
* Buying: $220,000 – $350,000
* Renting: $1,150 – $1,600/month
Forest Hills
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Forest Hills offers a mix of wooded lots and modern homes, providing a unique living experience that combines privacy and community.
Characteristics of the Forest Hills
* Culture: Natural preservation efforts; active neighborhood association.
* Transportation: Requires a vehicle for most errands.
* Services: Limited commercial presence; community events hosted frequently.
* Environment: Peaceful and suburban.
Housing Options in the Forest Hills
Single-family homes, Custom-built homes.
Average Home Prices in the Forest Hills
* Buying: $240,000 – $380,000
* Renting: $1,100 – $1,700/month
Old Town Bedford
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Renowned for its historic charm, Old Town Bedford features beautifully preserved buildings and a strong sense of community. This area is perfect for history lovers.
Characteristics of the Old Town Bedford
* Culture: Historic sites, including the National D-Day Memorial.
* Transportation: Walkable area with some public transport options.
* Services: Local shops and historical attractions.
* Environment: Charming and community-focused.
Housing Options in the Old Town Bedford
Restored historic homes, Character-filled apartments.
Average Home Prices in the Old Town Bedford
* Buying: $200,000 – $350,000
* Renting: $1,000 – $1,500/month
West Bedford
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West Bedford is an expanding residential area featuring new developments and modern amenities, attracting young families and professionals.
Characteristics of the West Bedford
* Culture: Emerging community with new schools and parks.
* Transportation: Accessible by main highways; car preferred.
* Services: Shopping centers, schools, and recreational areas.
* Environment: Growing and vibrant.
Housing Options in the West Bedford
New constructions, Single-family homes.
Average Home Prices in the West Bedford
* Buying: $250,000 – $400,000
* Renting: $1,250 – $1,800/month
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Residential Areas in Bedford:
The best residential areas in Bedford include Downtown Bedford, Lake Vista, Bedford Hills, Forest Hills, Old Town Bedford, and West Bedford.
Bedford Hills and Lake Vista are considered the most family-friendly due to good schools and parks.
Old Town Bedford is well-known for its historic homes and charming architecture.
Downtown Bedford has the highest concentration of services, including shops, restaurants, and medical facilities.
Average home prices in Bedford range from $180,000 to $400,000 depending on the area and housing type.
The Bedford Hills area has some of the top-rated schools in the region, making it ideal for families.
Lake Vista is particularly known for its outdoor activities including fishing, hiking, and boating.
Public transportation options are limited. Most residents rely on cars to get around.
Housing options in Bedford include single-family homes, townhouses, condos, and historic properties.
Old Town Bedford and parts of Downtown revert to more affordable housing options compared to other areas.
Conclusion on the Best Residential Areas in Bedford:
Bedford, Virginia, offers a rich blend of history, community, and natural beauty. Whether you prefer the vibrancy of Downtown, the serene lakeside living in Lake Vista, or the family-friendly environment of Bedford Hills, there's a perfect fit for everyone. Each area presents its unique charm and amenities, whether you seek outdoor activities, historical significance, or a family-oriented community. When considering a move to Bedford, potential residents can look forward to a fulfilling lifestyle nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Virginia.
About the Author
Published by:Eribert De Oliveira
Mechatronics Engineer and founder of Mi Inmueble Online, with a background in real estate. I combine technology and analysis to help you find the best areas to live.