When you think of Virginia, what comes to mind? Perhaps you are enamored with the coastal region and the beautiful shores of the Chesapeake Bay, or maybe you are a history buff who enjoys visiting Williamsburg and the Jamestown Colony. If you enjoy hiking, maybe your mind turns to the western region and the part of the Appalachian Trail that cuts through the mountains. Or, for the business minded, the area of Northern Virginia and industry is at the forefront.

Are you aware, though, that there is one place where you can enjoy just about everything Virginia has to offer? Stafford County in the Northern Virginia region is one of the fastest growing counties in the state. Those who visit can easily see why, and it is no surprise that many people who visit eventually come to stay.

What is it about Stafford County that appeals to people? The qualities are countless, but here are five good reasons for moving to Stafford to get you started.

1) Historical Roots

It is natural to assume places like Williamsburg and Jamestown are top contenders for the seat of Virginia history, since we hear so much about the area while reading about the early colonists. Richmond garners a fair share of attention, having been the capital of the Confederacy during the Civil War. But don't discount Stafford County if you are an American history enthusiast and looking to live closer to where the action happened.

Stafford played a greater role in our nation's formation than most people realize. The Ferry Farm, George Washington's boyhood home, is located here, as is the Chatham Manor, the only known residence in the US visited by Washington and Lincoln. The Ferry Farm, believe it or not, is the site of the infamous "cherry tree incident" that lives on in Washingtonian legend. To live in Stafford County and soak in the history of our nation is a great advantage. There is plenty to learn here, and you are only a short drive from other landmarks in the region.

2) Booming Economic Development

Stafford County is one of the fastest growing counties in the commonwealth. With proximity to a regional airport and two international airports, corporations are finding that Stafford is a strong alternative to setting up shop in more congested, metropolitan areas. Real estate is plentiful and reasonably priced, and the county provides excellent access to the Interstate. Add a healthy quality of life and good schools, and businesses are more attracted to the area. Happy workers yield big business and a prosperous future.

3) Outdoors Fun

Would you believe Stafford County, in the northern tip of the state, has its own beach? Residents enjoy the sun and water at Aquia Landing, which also provides opportunities for boating and other sports for the family. For something less strenuous, the Ferry Farm and other county landmarks are a haven for bird watching and nature walks. Stafford County is a great place to get in shape.

4) Small-Business Friendly

Big business isn't Stafford's only target. Small businesses are welcome to set up shop in Stafford County, and the area Department of Economic Development is available daily to assist business owners in obtaining licenses and commercial real estate. Whether you wish to establish a local shop or retail internationally through a small home base, Stafford officials are happy to assist. Proximity to airports and reliable ground transportation can help business grow.

5) Convenient to the Capital

Stafford County is a mere twenty-five miles from the nation's capital. For people who work in the city yet don't wish to live within the borders of the Beltway, Stafford provides an excellent alternative. The county is close enough to allow for a convenient commute, yet remote enough to get away from it all. Living in Stafford provides a small town feel with the opportunity to enjoy big city life as desired.

Convenience, prosperity and history are the hallmarks of Stafford County. For the business owner or government official seeking a new home, there is no reason to look any further.