With a rich history and a vibrant community spirit, Virginia offers an inviting backdrop for both newcomers and seasoned players of pickleball. Ranked No. 10 in the nation for pickleball courts (as determined by the Pickleheads website), Virginia boasts 428 pickleball courts across its cities and towns, creating a welcoming environment for lessons, casual play, and competitive matches alike.
Last year, over 600 coaches at TeachMe.To delivered tens of thousands of pickleball lessons nationwide. The team compiled data from every pickleball lesson in Virginia to identify not just where pickleball is played, but where it's flourishing. Below are the top insights from our database into the leading pickleball cities in Virginia.
Alexandria Leads with Unmatched Enthusiasm for Pickleball
Dominating the rankings, Alexandria stands out by accounting for a staggering 49.4% of pickleball lesson bookings across the state, underscoring the city's exceptional enthusiasm for the sport. This vibrant community's deep engagement with pickleball is a testament to the city's commitment to promoting a healthy, active lifestyle and fostering a welcoming environment for players of all ages and skill levels.
Falls Church: A Close-Knit Community with a Passion for Pickleball
Following Alexandria, Falls Church captures a significant 20.8% share, highlighting its status as a close-knit community where pickleball is more than just a game; it's a way to connect, engage, and foster friendships. The city's dedication to creating spaces for pickleball is evident in its thriving scene and the growing interest among residents.
Arlington and Richmond: Diverse Urban Centers Embracing Pickleball
Arlington and Richmond, with 7.8% and 6.5% respectively, showcase how urban centers in Virginia are incorporating pickleball into their recreational offerings. These cities demonstrate that even in bustling urban environments, there's a strong and growing demand for pickleball, reflecting its appeal across diverse communities.
Fairfax and Vienna: Suburban Gems with Growing Pickleball Communities
Fairfax and Vienna, each with 6.5% and 2.6% of lesson bookings, represent suburban gems where pickleball is on the rise. These areas are becoming hotspots for the sport, thanks to their community-focused approach and investment in recreational facilities that cater to pickleball players.
For example, Down the Line sits inside a renovated CVS at 10390 Willard Way in Fairfax — players can enjoy three full courts, one singles court, one dinking practice court, and a hitting wall in its 10,000-square-foot center.
Emerging Markets and Rising Stars
Rounding out the list, Henrico, Virginia Beach, Glen Allen, and Annandale, though smaller in their percentage of lesson bookings, indicate emerging markets and rising stars in Virginia's pickleball landscape. These areas, with their unique charm and growing interest in pickleball, suggest potential for further growth and development in the sport.
Henrico county recently announced that it’s building a 12-court pickleball complex at Pouncey Tract Park. The development will include two championship courts with spectator seating and LED lighting. Henrico’s Board of Supervisors unanimously approved the $4.4 million project. Plans for the complex indicate the addition of a 103-space parking lot and road improvements.
The Top Pickleball Cities in Virginia: Summary
Rank | City | Percentage |
1 | Alexandria | 49.4% |
2 | Falls Church | 20.8% |
3 | Arlington | 7.8% |
4 | Richmond | 6.5% |
5 | Fairfax | 6.5% |
6 | Vienna | 2.6% |
7 | Henrico | 2.6% |
8 | Virginia Beach | 1.3% |
9 | Glen Allen | 1.3% |
10 | Annandale | 1.3% |
Learn Pickleball in Virginia Today
Virginia's pickleball scene is diverse and dynamic, reflecting the state's wide-ranging appeal and its residents' enthusiasm for the sport. From historic Alexandria to the scenic views of Virginia Beach, the state offers numerous opportunities for pickleball players to learn, play, and connect.