We live in Virginia Beach, and have had discussions about retiring to states with reduced taxes on our retirement, or no state income taxes. You really have to consider more that just the state taxes on income and real estate, there are other taxes with quite a bit of variation, personal property taxes, etc. What we decided (or realized), is that for the quality of life want - which includes ready access to the Chesapeake Bay, the Tidewater or Hampton Roads area has what we need. A wide range of properties on or near the water in Va Beach, Portsmouth, Norfolk, Chesapeake, Hampton, Newport News and on up toward Williamsburg. A big factor is the large variety of restaurants and cultural activities, festivals, ... Recommend you take a hard look at this area - bet you will find your perfect fit.