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Friday, January 13, 2023

Moving to Richmond, VA – Your EZ Guide to Everything Richmond, VA

Richmond Virginia

Moving to Richmond, VA – Your EZ Guide to Everything Richmond, VA

Virginia’s funky capital Richmond delivers big-city social living without busting through your wallet. With the cost of living on the lower end of US cities, it has become increasingly popular for people looking to live in Virginia that don’t want to be in more expensive parts of the state.

So what can you expect from living in Richmond? Besides affordability, you’ve got a solid job market, education opportunities, and many activities to keep everyone busy. Get a solid overview of what’s available in Richmond as you explore moving to this historic city.

Cost of Living in Richmond, VA

Richmond VA cost of living line graph pointing upward

Good news if you want an affordable place to live! In 2021, the cost of living in the greater Richmond metro was four percent lower than the national average. That’s according to the Council for Community and Economic Research’s Cost of Living Index.

The big standout? Housing! Its costs were 28% below what you’d typically pay across the US. And it’s cheaper than what you’d pay to live in Virginia, especially in the pricey markets of northern Virginia and Charlottesville.

Here’s how the City of Richmond stacked up in Sperling’s Best Places Index:

COST OF LIVING

Richmond

Virginia

USA

  Overall

96.1

104.2

100

  Grocery

98

99.6

100

  Health

99.2

103.1

100

  Housing

96.9

112.9

100

  Median Home Cost

$282,800

$329,200

$291,700

  Utilities

98.9

99.3

100

  Transportation

83.5

99.4

100

  Miscellaneous

136.2

113.7

100

Population Growth

crowded place in a city street

According to US Census figures, Richmond’s population grew by 10% from 2010 to 2020. The population growth in Richmond demonstrates its appeal as well.

According to data from the Weldon Cooper Center at the University of Virginia, the region’s population could increase by almost 20% by 2050. Their projections place the I-95 corridor as seeing the most growth. Locally, Chesterfield County is expected to see the most population increase, at 38.4%, and reach over half a million residents.

With all this anticipated growth, the Richmond 300 plan aims to develop the city equitably and sustainably.

Job Market

job market status in Richmond Virginia

Employers have responded to the influx of growth with abundant job opportunities.

It’s a state capital, so you’ll find many government or legislative work opportunities. The abundance of healthcare providers and universities also means the healthcare and education fields are common occupations.

The local healthcare systems (VCU Health, HCA Virginia, and Bon Secours) are among the top four employers. Rounding them out is Capital One, which has a regional headquarters here.

Finance, biotechnology, manufacturing, and transportation are other key industries with a strong presence. Over 34,000 people are employed in the financial services sector, with 600 associated companies in the city. The Virginia BioTechnology Research Park is home to 63 research centers, companies, and laboratories, including Pfizer and Kaleo. Another 450 companies provide advanced manufacturing services, from chemicals and plastics to fabricated metal products.

The presence of VCU and other local universities creates a strong talent pool to draw from when businesses are looking for that perfect fit within their organization.

The mean wage for Richmond residents was $52,620, just under the national median in 2021. The highest-paying occupation–surgeons–made $280,200.

Climate

weather in some parts of Virginia

Richmond’s climate is best described as humid subtropical, with hot summers and mild, cool winters. The average high in the summer months reaches 90F, while the lows average in the 50Fs. Winter daily highs hover near 51F, with daily lows around 33F. Snow accumulation averages around four inches per year.

Getting Around Town

Richmond’s traffic can be congested during rush hour. For those commuting to work, the average time was 26 minutes in 2021.

The city does have a bus system run by the GRTC. Buses run on a regular schedule on routes that cover most of the city and Chesterfield County.

Amtrak runs a rail service from Richmond to Washington, DC, if you must commute into the nation’s capital.

Healthcare

Locals benefit from a teaching medical center located right in Richmond. VCU Health is one of the nation’s largest medical schools and has a well-established transplant program. VCU operates a cancer center and children’s hospital.

HCA Virginia has its headquarters in Richmond. Across its service area, it runs 14 hospitals and 27 outpatient centers, including some in Richmond.

Richmond is also served by the VA Healthcare System, which also has a teaching hospital, and the Bon Secours Health System.

Education

Several school districts cover Richmond public education, including Hanover, Henrico, Chesterfield counties, and Richmond City. In total, these districts provide public education for over 180,000 local youth. Regional programs include magnet and accelerated programs, like the Walker Governor’s School for Government and International Studies and the Appomattox Regional Governor’s School for Arts and Technology. Niche.com has ranked these among the top schools in Virginia.

Over 22 colleges and universities attract talent into the area. Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) is the largest locally and in the state. Around 30,000 students take one of over 200 programs. The National Science Foundation ranks it a top 100 research university.

Other higher education providers include Virginia State University, The University of Richmond, Virginia Union University, and Randolph-Macon College. There are more options in trade schools and community colleges.

Things To Do

Richmond has activities to suit various interests and budgets. Here’s a small sampling of what you can experience:

Dining Scene

Forbes called dining in Richmond a “hidden culinary gem.” The 900+ dining options range from cozy mom-and-pop spots to five-star restaurants. It’s globally inspired, with award-winning Indian restaurants, Jewish-African fusion, and straight-up southern.

Even as its restaurants are featured in Bon Appetit and Esquire, Richmond’s food scene is still growing. More non-chain restaurants keep opening to take advantage of local Chesapeake Bay catches and farm-to-table dining. As of 2021, there have been nine James Beard-nominated restaurants over the last five years.

The craft brewing scene is also vibrant, with more than 40 breweries and cideries around the city. Get a sampling along the Richmond Beer Trail.

Golf

Over 20 golf clubs cater to every skill level and desired experience. The Dominion Charity Classic is hosted yearly at the Country Club of Virginia. But it’s Independence Golf Club that has been named a top course by Golf Digest.

Pick from public courses like Royal New Kent Golf Club and Lake Chesdin Golf Club, or go private with Wentwood Golf Club or The Federal Club. The Club at Viniterra and The Golf Club at The Highlands are semi-private clubs.

Water Sports

The James River runs through downtown and is a great place to cool off during the summer. Its 550-acre park includes ample shoreline and islands. The city and surrounding area offer plenty of access for canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and other water activities.

Into whitewater adventures? You’re in luck! Nearby awaits Class I-IV rafting and kayaking, perfect for all levels of whitewater enthusiasts.

The Great Outdoors

In town, you can retreat from city life at Belle Isle or relax at the James River Park System. Locals like the historic Byrd Park and Huguenot Park. Hadad’s Lake is fun for its classic adventure park, loved by kids and families alike.

Richmond’s near the heart of Virginia, giving it access to prime parks and forest land. Nearby Pocahontas State Park offers 7,700 acres of forested land, trails, and a four-acre fishing lake.

If you’re into cycling or like to go the distance, the Virginia Capital Trail runs 52 miles all the way to Williamsburg. The Fall Line Trail runs north-south across Richmond.

Dog Friendly

With plenty of parks and trails, Richmond is a pet-friendly place to be. You’ll find downtown venues friendly to well-behaved pups, like the 17th Street Market and Brown’s Island. A selection of restaurants welcome dogs on their outdoor patios on lovely days. Barker Field, Church Hill, Hanover, Northside, and Pole Green Parks have dedicated fenced dog park areas.

Richmond Attractions

Richmond will keep you busy all year round. While we could list dozens of attractions, here are a few bucket list items.

Metro Richmond Zoo cares for over 2,000 animals. A guided safari train lets you get up close with free-ranging animals.

A water park and roller coasters to tempt adventure seekers at King’s Dominion adventure park.

The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts features over 22,000 pieces in its extensive collection. It’s often regarded as one of the top 10 art museums in the nation.

The Poe Museum has an extensive collection of materials owned by the gothic author.

The American Civil War Museum aims to be the preeminent center for sharing the legacies of the Civil War. Its exhibits focus on the various perspectives: Union, Confederate, enslaved, and free African Americans.

The Revolutionary Trail hits on critical places in the city’s colonial past, like the Hanover House. The various Civil War trails trace the lives of enslaved persons, soldiers, and citizens who crossed through during this period.

Richmond Shopping

Richmond has something for every shopper, from neighborhood boutiques to urban malls. Those seeking to update their wardrobe or something unique can’t miss Carytown, the city’s central shopping district. Antique shops, art galleries, and consignment stores are also popular.

Art and Culture

As the seat of Virginia, Richmond is a center for multiple arts and cultural attractions. A vibrant art community gives the city an indie vibe, so you’ll see many wall murals, art galleries, live performances, and art festivals.

Richmond’s Folk and Jazz Festivals attract hundreds of thousands of passionate music fans from far and wide, making it one of the most anticipated events in the area. However, the scene welcomes all music styles, so don’t be surprised when you encounter the underground punk rock scene.

Arts in the Park is a keystone city event with over 400 artists displaying and selling their original creations. RVA Makerfest highlights more of the city’s artists.

Dominion Energy Riverrock combines the energy of outdoor music with sports. Brown’s Island is the epicenter of a 5k mud run, slacklines, and rock climbing, all set to live jams.

Culturally, remember Richmond is one of the older cities in the original 13 colonies. History abounds in the buildings and surrounding countryside. For instance, Thomas Jefferson designed the Virginia State Capitol building.

Sports and Teams

NASCAR fans descend on Richmond at least twice a year. The Richmond Raceway features short-track actions with official NASCAR events two weekends a year.

Live professional sports games are played by the AA-affiliate Richmond Flying Squirrels, a minor league baseball team funneling talent for the San Francisco Giants. Soccer fans cheer for the Richmond Kickers, one of the US’s oldest continuously run professional clubs.

Richmond attracts sports events throughout the year. Challenge yourself with the Monument Avenue 10K or run the Richmond Marathon. The city has also hosted road cycling championships.

Real Estate Market

Real Estate Market in Richmond VA

Richmond’s real estate market has been steadily increasing in recent years. Median prices were up 9.3% year over year as of November 2022. The median home price inside city limits was $330,000 in January 2023.

Richmond has many diverse and eclectic neighborhoods to choose from to call home. Historical neighborhoods like Colonial Place and Church Hill have established character. You can live in the suburbs, downtown near the Museum District, or by one of the colleges.

Moving to Richmond

Richmond’s low cost of living and abundance of activities make it easy to see why so many people choose to make the city their home. Add a robust economy and a growing job market, and you have the foundation for a great lifestyle. The city plans to keep growing. If you plan to be one of them, a local real estate agent can help you find the right Richmond neighborhood to call home.

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Preston Guyton

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