Richmond, Virginia, yet again! Always on the top of the lips of South Eastern residents, and for good reasons.
Whether it's the city's rich history, amazing food scene, or a plethora of outdoor adventures, life in RVA is always an exciting pick for those looking to relocate.
Suppose you have heard countlessly about the eclectic neighborhoods and unbeatable cultural experience here and are still not convinced why you should relocate to Richmond. In that case, there's a lot more about this city you need to learn.
Let's take you through RVA with words; here are 8 reasons why you should move to the capital city of Virginia.
It's Cheap Here
Imagine a place where your dollar stretches farther than in most other cities its size in the country.
How much money do you need to live comfortably in Richmond?
The cost of living in Richmond, Virginia, is about 4% lower than the state and national averages. This stat is good news for those relocating from more expensive cities like New York City.
The low price tag attached to its real estate valuation makes it a prime spot for those seeking to expand their portfolio and invest in a growing market.
Firstly, housing costs are 15% lower than the national average. Then, you get to discover home prices are trending up 7.2% averagely year-over-year.
- Average Rent: $1,483
- Median Home Value: $380,000
- Mortgage Rate: 6.98%
If you are all about cutting down expenses, especially when there's a family to care for,
movers in Richmond will be more than happy to help your relocation into the city.
| Cost of Living in Richmond, VA |
Compared to State Average |
Compared to National Average |
| Housing |
17% lower |
15% lower |
| Utilities |
1% higher |
4% higher |
| Healthcare |
6% lower |
4% lower |
| Food |
2% higher |
0% |
| Transportation |
8% higher |
0% |
The Perfect Location
Making that simple decision to relocate to Richmond puts you in the perfect location where I-95 and I-64 connect.
What this means for you as a resident here is that you are about two hours' drive from the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains, Virginia Beach, the Chesapeake Bay, Washington DC, and just a bit over one hour away from Wine Country in Charlottesville.
So, life in RVA isn't just secluded to this city. If you ever need to extend your fun zones, you have almost unlimited access to the top, bustling areas.
The average commute time in the city is 22 minutes.
Plenty Jobs and More Jobs
When it comes to economic scoring in Richmond, the city outperforms the state and national averages with a continuously declining unemployment rate.
The city has a lot of lawyers, lobbyists, and legislators working its economic sectors. Major industries fostering the thriving economy in Richmond are in finance, healthcare, real estate, and tech.
Basically, if you are in search of a job in Virginia, Richmond would most likely give you one. For starters, over a hundred Fortune 500 Companies have branch offices in the city. From Wells Fargo to Capital One, Bank of America, Amazon, and CarMax—all of which are major employers.
- Population: 226,610
- Median Household Income: $58,988
- Unemployment Rate: 2.50%
- Poverty Rate: 19%
Other prominent employers in the city include HCA Virginia Health System, Virginia Commonwealth University Health, and Dominion Energy.
Excellent Food and Craft Beers
There might be a mix of pros and cons of moving to Richmond, but its dining and drinking scene isn't one of the downsides!
Home to world-renowned chefs and bakers, Richmond's cuisine will have your taste buds buzzing. The Roosevelt at Church Hill, Shagbark, Shyndigz, and Downtown RVA's Edo's Squid are the go-to dining spots for an exceptional southern menu.
That's not all! As the number 1 beer destination in the country, Richmond's 30+ breweries will wet your tongues with some of the craftiest delights you've ever had.
Scott's Addition, your first stop for a phenomenal beer-tasting experience, has all the finest breweries within walking distance. Ensure to check out Veil Brewing, Ardent Craft Ales, and Hardywood Brewery.
A History Buff's Paradise
"Give me liberty or give me death!"
Bold, remarkable, and forever memorable words from Patrick Henry's speech at St. John's Church.
If you consider yourself a lover of history or someone inclined with the cultures from the past, then the deep-rooted historic relevances in Richmond is enough reason to relocate.
From St. John's Church, where the famous line from Patrick Henry's speech was inspired, to the White House's double at the Virginia Capitol and the Malvern Hill Battlefield, where the Civil War action took place, there's significant history at every corner.
Vibrant Arts, Culture, and Festival Scene
The best parts of Richmond come under the spotlight when you talk about its arts and culture.
Just visiting the city, the imaginative street art and murals tell the story of exactly what Richmond residents value. The city's Art District's First Friday is an opportunity to really get a look into the artistic culture through the galleries.
Then, there's the one and only Virginia Museum of Fine Art, housing some of the world's largest collections of art from various regions. If that's not enough, pay a visit to the Carpenter Theater, where Richmond's Ballet and Opera events rule!
Let's say you truly want to catch an exemplary aspect of RVA culture. What time of the year is the best to move to Richmond?
Here's a list of must-experience festival moments in Richmond:
- Arts in the Park, happening every first weekend in May in Dogwood Dell
- Irish Festival takes place on the weekend after St. Patrick's Day
- The Richmond Folk Festival in October
- Experience the Broad Appetit food festival in June
- Easter Parade experience on Easter Sunday along Monument Avenue
Outdoor Fun and Activities Never Stops
You love the outdoors, and having time out with your family is your thing? Then, Richmond, VA, is where you need to be!
With over 100+ parks scattered across the city, there's a place for every individual.
The James River is the number one river in the city to soak up all the activities that come with the waters. While at this spot, you could grab a fishing catch or paddle through the waters in your kayak.
Other fun activities that will stir up the fun side for you while here:
- Stop by Brown's Island and enjoy a nice picnic with friends and family
- Explore Belle Isle for fun biking and quarry adventure
- At Richmond's James River Park, you can go wall climbing, go for a floodwall or pipeline walk
- Take your kids to the Children's Museum of Richmond to allow them to have engaging, fun moments
Awesome Neighborhoods
Richmond might not be the safest city to live in, but its varied neighborhoods offer some of the best quality of life in the country.
For instance, The Fan and Museum Districts are top neighborhoods in the city. Its picturesque setting, charming historic homes, and scenic parks make it a popular area for many residents.
Aside from the famous district neighborhood, other stellar areas you'll love include:
- Colonial Place — finest homes and parks, wealthy community
- Byrd Park — the most serene neighborhood with natural spaces
- Westover Hills — safest neighborhood
- Three Chopt — great for country club lovers, retirees, shoppers
- Stratford Hills — best for hiking, lake activities
Final Take—Reasons to Relocate to Richmond
RVA has continuously proven its worth as a top city for families and individuals, retirees and the working class, young and old, but why should you pack your bags here?
The city's low living costs, excellent job opportunities, exciting cultural scene, delightful food experience, and historic relevance will make the decision to relocate here the best.
So, before you finally relocate to Richmond, make extra findings on the things you'd love your home city to have, then set a date.
Good luck!
By Chris Bates
