Bedford
1. SENSE OF COMMUNITY. A retiree recently told Rob Jarvis, supervisor for the Bedford Tourism and Welcome Center, “this is the caringest place I’ve ever lived.” According to Jarvis, a strong neighbor-to-neighbor bond and friendly atmosphere are alive and well in Bedford’s residential areas.
2. LOCATION IS EVERYTHING. Bedford boasts small-town living with city convenience, centrally located amid the metropolitan areas of Roanoke and Lynchburg, Smith Mountain Lake and the Blue Ridge Mountains.
3. AMPLE ACTIVITIES. For retirees looking to stay active, Bedford offers a variety of organizations that utilize a strong volunteer base, including the National D-Day Memorial, Little Town Players, Christian Ministries and the Bedford Welcome Center. Other fun pursuits in the area are Peaks of Otter with its trails and winery, local museums and a zoo.
Population: 66,831
Average Home Value: $90,000
Chamber of Commerce: 540-586-9401