Emporia, Virginia, is at a transportation crossroads -- literally. The major north-south railroad crosses with the east-west line of Norfolk Southern in the city. Interstate 95 brings drivers through the city on their way up and down the eastern seaboard, while other main roads of highways 58 and 301 go through the southeastern Virginia city.
Located close to both the North Carolina state line and the eastern shores of Virginia, Emporia is the county seat of Greensville County
Emporia, Virginia, is at a transportation crossroads -- literally. The major north-south railroad crosses with the east-west line of Norfolk Southern in the city. Interstate 95 brings drivers through the city on their way up and down the eastern seaboard, while other main roads of highways 58 and 301 go through the southeastern Virginia city.
Located close to both the North Carolina state line and the eastern shores of Virginia, Emporia is the county seat of Greensville County. If you crave open places and don't like living too close to your neighbors, you'll love the fact that the 2010 census put the population of Emporia at 5,927, making the town one of the state's least populous places that can still be considered a city. It's an ideal location within Virginia, since you're about an hour south of Richmond and less than two hours from the Virginia beaches. Travel south into North Carolina on Interstate-95, and you can be in a major city like Raleigh within a few hours.
Finding an apartment for rent isn't difficult in Emporia, it just might take a little time. Allow at least a month for your search, and be prepared to secure an apartment as soon as you see it. Apartments for rent don't stay empty for long in Emporia. When you start to search for rental properties, gather all your pertinent paperwork, such as rental history, employment verification, and your credit report.
Even with such a small population, Emporia can still be divided into distinct areas, or neighborhoods, each with their own offerings.
Bryant's Corner: Most of Emporia is part of this neighborhood, which is also known as Garner's Mill. From the North Carolina state line to just below Highway 58, Bryant's Corner is a rural area known more for its homes than apartment complexes. You'll have to drive a little bit to shop for groceries or run to the bank -- other than several fuel plazas just off the interstate, there aren't many retail options or businesses in this area. Look for a duplex for rent here if wide open spaces are what you desire. Pet-friendly apartments should be easier to snag here, as well.
S. Main Street /Brunswick Avenue: Just west of downtown, I-95 cuts through this community. Suburban streets make for a charming neighborhood that's close to everything downtown has to offer without feeling like you're surrounded by buildings.
Downtown: You're close to the regional airport and I-95, but you're even closer to the restaurants and shopping located within the Emporia city blocks. Grab a bite to eat at Logan's Diner or shop at the grocery/bakery hybrid Sugared Memories. Finding apartments with paid utilities is definitely doable in this neighborhood.
Emporia is a charming small town, even if it is considered a city. While the climate is decidedly Southern, with hot, humid summers and mild winters, locals' accents might make you think you're in Brooklyn or Boston. Annual community events, such as the Virginia Pork Festival in June, bring residents from surrounding areas to the city. The local bicycle club is very active and operates large rides throughout the year. One in particular, called the Great Peanut Ride, brings hundreds of bicyclists to the city for the day. The trip takes them to a nearby peanut farm where live entertainment and plenty of food is waiting for the riders after their long journey. If cars are more your style and you have a lead foot, be aware that Emporia is known for its speed traps, especially along Interstate 95 and U.S. Route 58. Slow down while driving in town, or be prepared to help support your local government through your traffic fines!
