Midlothian is one of the most popular places to live in the Richmond area. It sits in Chesterfield County, southwest of the city, and draws people who want more space, well-regarded schools and parks without leaving the Richmond region behind. It also has real history, a lot of new development and a fair amount of traffic. This guide covers what it is like to live in Midlothian in 2026, from housing and taxes to schools, commutes and things to do.
Updated November 2026.
Midlothian at a Glance
- Location: an unincorporated community in Chesterfield County, about 20 to 30 minutes from downtown Richmond depending on traffic.
- Population: 18,320 people in the Midlothian census-designated area in 2020, according to the Census Bureau. The wider Midlothian area is larger.
- Median household income: about $110,000 for 2020 to 2024 (Census Bureau).
- Real estate tax: $0.89 per $100 of assessed value in Chesterfield County in 2026, or about $3,560 a year on a $400,000 home.
- Sales tax: 6%, the same as the rest of the Richmond area.
A Little History
Midlothian is one of the oldest coal-mining areas in the country. Coal was mined here from the 1700s, and the area was home to Virginia’s first railroad, which carried coal from the mines to the James River. Mining ended in the early 1900s, but you can still see the Grove Shaft ruins at the 44-acre Mid-Lothian Mines Park. The community’s name comes from the mines.
Housing in Midlothian
Midlothian offers everything from established neighborhoods with mature trees to newer subdivisions with trails and community amenities. American Community Survey estimates compiled by HomeTownLocator put the median home value at about $408,500 for 2020 to 2024, a few years behind the market, and Zillow’s typical value for the Richmond metro was about $394,095 in September 2026. Prices vary a lot by neighborhood and school zone, and homes in popular zones tend to sell faster and for more. Read our guides to the best neighborhoods in Midlothian, the Richmond housing market in 2026 and the cost of living in Midlothian.
Rentals can be harder to find than in the city, so start early. If you are renting for the first time, our first apartment checklist helps.
Schools
Midlothian is served by Chesterfield County Public Schools, and the schools are one of the main reasons families choose the area. High schools in and around Midlothian include Midlothian, Cosby, Clover Hill and James River. School zoning is competitive, so check the zone for a specific address before you make an offer. See exploring schools in Midlothian and the best schools in Chesterfield County.
Commuting and Traffic
Route 288 and Midlothian Turnpike can back up during morning and late-afternoon rush hours. The commute to downtown Richmond is manageable but can stretch with traffic. If you work remotely or have a flexible schedule, you will avoid most of it. Try your commute at the actual times you will drive before you commit to a home.
Things to Do in Midlothian
- Mid-Lothian Mines Park: walking trails and a look at the area’s mining history.
- Swift Creek Reservoir: kayaking, fishing and waterfront views.
- Robious Landing Park: river access and trails.
- Pocahontas State Park: biking, hiking, camping and outdoor events nearby.
- Westchester Commons: shopping, dining and events.
- Steam Bell Beer Works: a local brewery with live music and food trucks.
More ideas are in our guides to things to do in Midlothian and top activities and adventures in Midlothian.
Pros and Cons of Living in Midlothian
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Well-regarded schools | Traffic on Route 288 and Midlothian Turnpike |
| Parks, trails and the reservoir | Competitive housing in popular school zones |
| More space than the city | Not much nightlife; you drive to downtown |
| Close to Richmond jobs and culture | Ongoing growth and construction |
| Lower real estate tax rate than the City of Richmond | Car-dependent; little public transit |
Compare with a nearby choice in Midlothian vs Henrico or Glen Allen vs Chesterfield vs Mechanicsville.
Is Midlothian Right for You?
Midlothian suits people who want a suburban setting with good schools, outdoor space and a short drive into Richmond, and who can live with some traffic and a busy housing market. If you want to walk to restaurants and nightlife, a neighborhood in the city may fit better. For the bigger picture, read whether Richmond is a good place to live.
Moving to Midlothian
Cavalier Moving has an office in Midlothian at 2531 Arrandell Rd, and our Midlothian movers handle local moves throughout the area. Get set up with our guides to utility setup in Midlothian and the DMV and car inspection checklist. For moving boxes, see where to get moving boxes in Midlothian, and for clearing out unwanted items, our guide to junk removal in Midlothian.
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 Midlothian, VA a good place to live?
Many people think so, especially families who want good schools, parks and more space near Richmond. The trade-offs are traffic and a competitive housing market.
How far is Midlothian from Richmond?
About 20 to 30 minutes from downtown Richmond depending on traffic.
What is the property tax rate in Midlothian?
Midlothian is in Chesterfield County, where the 2026 real estate tax rate is $0.89 per $100 of assessed value.
What schools serve Midlothian?
Chesterfield County Public Schools, including Midlothian, Cosby, Clover Hill and James River high schools. Check the zone for your address.
Is Midlothian more affordable than Richmond?
It depends on the neighborhood. Real estate tax is lower than in the City of Richmond, but homes in popular school zones can be expensive.
Does Cavalier Moving serve Midlothian?
Yes. We have an office in Midlothian and handle local moves throughout Chesterfield County.