Richmond is one of the most popular moves in Virginia, and for good reason. It has the James River, a lively food and arts scene, real history and housing that costs less than much of the East Coast. But no city is perfect. As a local moving company that has moved families across the Richmond area since 2020, we see both sides. Here is an honest look at what living in Richmond is like.
Richmond at a Glance
- Population: about 230,000 in the city and roughly 1.3 million in the greater Richmond region, which includes Henrico, Chesterfield and Hanover.
- Housing: median home values in the Richmond area run roughly $330,000 to $370,000, with a lot of variation between the city and surrounding counties.
- Rent: a one-bedroom averages about $1,374 and a two-bedroom about $1,744.
- Jobs: Richmond ranked 11th on the Wall Street Journal’s hottest job markets list in 2024, and average hourly wages are about $31.78.
- Cost of living: about 6% below the national average.
For a deeper look at the numbers, read our cost of living in Richmond guide.
The Pros of Living in Richmond
Lower Costs Than Northern Virginia and Much of the Coast
Your money goes further here. A typical home costs far less than in Arlington or Alexandria, and rents are about half those in Northern Virginia. Our comparison of Northern Virginia and Richmond breaks down the trade-offs.
Outdoor Life in the City
The James River runs through downtown, with rapids, hiking trails and kayaking minutes from the city center. See our guides to Richmond’s best hiking trails and kayaking and canoeing spots.
Food, Arts and Culture
Richmond has a strong restaurant scene, breweries, museums and festivals. Browse the top restaurants and cafes and best museums to get a feel for it.
A Growing Job Market
Technology, healthcare, finance, government and education all employ large numbers of people, and the job market has been growing. Virginia Commonwealth University and the University of Richmond add a steady supply of talent.
A Real Choice of Neighborhoods
You can live in a walkable historic district, a quiet suburb or somewhere in between. Our guide to the best neighborhoods in Richmond compares the options, and the most walkable neighborhoods are worth a look if you want to drive less.
The Cons of Living in Richmond
You Will Probably Need a Car
Outside a few walkable neighborhoods, Richmond is car-dependent, and public transit is limited compared with larger cities. Read our commuting guide before choosing where to live.
Traffic and Commutes
It is far gentler than Northern Virginia, but I-95, I-64 and the bridges over the James can back up at rush hour.
Hot, Humid Summers and Some Flood Risk
Summers are hot and humid, and parts of the city sit near rivers and creeks. Our guide to Richmond flooding and weather risks explains what to check before you buy or rent.
Rising Housing Costs
Home values and rents have climbed since 2020, and supply is tight in popular neighborhoods. Our post on renting vs buying in Richmond can help you decide.
Uneven Schools Across the Region
School quality varies by district. Families often compare Henrico and Chesterfield, so see our guides to Henrico schools and the best schools in Chesterfield County.
Who Is Richmond Best For?
- Young professionals who want city life without Northern Virginia prices
- Remote workers who want a lower cost of living and plenty to do. See our guide to the best Virginia cities for remote workers.
- Families who want a choice of suburbs, from Short Pump to Midlothian
- Retirees who want culture, healthcare and easy access to the coast and mountains
- Students and recent graduates, especially around VCU
Is Richmond Right for You?
If you want a mid-sized city with history, outdoor access and reasonable costs, Richmond is hard to beat. If you need a major transit system or a very cool climate, it may not fit. The best way to decide is to visit the neighborhoods you are considering. When you are ready to make the move, our Richmond movers can handle it, and the first month checklist will help you settle in.
Ready for a straight answer on your move? Call Cavalier Moving at (804) 404-8048 or request a free estimate. We are open 24 hours, 7 days a week.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Richmond, VA a safe place to live?
Safety varies a lot by neighborhood, as it does in any city. Visit at different times of day, talk to residents and look at local crime maps for the specific neighborhoods you are considering.
Is Richmond expensive compared with other Virginia cities?
Richmond is considerably cheaper than Northern Virginia and has a lower overall cost of living than the national average. Costs are broadly comparable with Hampton Roads, with differences by neighborhood.
What is the best part of Richmond to live in?
It depends on your priorities. The Fan, Church Hill and Scott’s Addition suit people who want to walk to restaurants and shops, while Henrico, Short Pump and Midlothian are popular with families who want space and schools.
Do I need a car in Richmond?
In most of the region, yes. A few neighborhoods are walkable and some are served by transit, but most residents drive.
How much does it cost to move to Richmond?
A local move depends on the size of your home and how far you are going. See what our customers actually paid on our pricing page. We provide moves within Virginia.