Richmond, VA
Why You’ll Love Living in Richmond, Virginia
Richmond, the capital of Virginia, boasts a rich historical and cultural heritage accompanied by elegant architecture, cobblestone streets and charming neighborhoods. The city is home to a wealth of historic sites, landmarks and museums as well as galleries, theaters and live music venues. Richmond has a thriving job market with major employers that include several Fortune 500 companies. The city’s proximity to Washington, D.C., expands career opportunities. Richmond offers all this with a relatively lower cost of living compared to other major metros on the East Coast.
Thinking of moving to Richmond, VA? Keep scrolling to find all the details about living in Richmond, including quick facts such as the population, median home value and property taxes. Plus, learn more about the cost of living and quality of life in Richmond, from the economy and job opportunities to weather, outdoor activities and things to do, including local restaurants and points of interest.
What Makes Richmond, VA, a Best Place to Live in 2024
Richmond, VA, residents have access to world-class museums, a fantastic food and beverage scene (weave the mimosa trail into your brunch plans!), as well as thrilling outdoor adventures. How many other cities can claim to have class IV rapids rumbling through downtown, ready to raft with an outfitter?
Steeped in American history, the city honors the past while looking ahead to the future. Richmond’s sustainability commitments also make it one of the best places to live in the U.S. The city aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 45% by 2030 and reach net zero by 2050.
Residents don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy the good life, either. The cost of living is lower than the national average, and the city recently committed to building 1,000 more affordable housing units.
The more than 230,000 people who call Richmond home reap the benefits of this multifaceted city. More than 900 restaurants are in the area, and foodies will surely get their fill. The city also hosts unique festivals and gatherings to bring locals and tourists together, like Dominion Energy Riverrock, which combines outdoor sports and music, and the BrewHaHa beer festival, which is held at the Virginia Museum of History and Culture. You can even watch rats play basketball at the Science Museum of Virginia.
Richmond, VA Quality of Life LivScore
Richmond, VA Top Categories
Environment
Amenities
Economy
Richmond ranks highest for environment, amenities and economy.
Weather and Outdoor Activities in Richmond, VA
Richmond’s winters are cold, and summers are hot. The average highs and lows are 88°F and 67°F (summer) and 50°F and 30°F (winter).
The average annual snowfall in Richmond is 10 inches, but it usually melts within a day or two.
The average annual rainfall in Richmond is 44 inches, just slightly above the national average.
Richmond averages 213 sunny days a year.
Spend time exploring the expansive James River Park System, which spans more than 550 acres and includes 22 miles of trails perfect for cycling, walking or jogging. At this wilderness oasis in the city, you can also kayak, whitewater raft, birdwatch, fish, swim and go rock climbing. Relax in the sun at Belle Isle, a 54-acre island along the James River.
Things To Do in Richmond, VA
Get in touch with your artsy side by perusing the more than 70 art galleries that call Richmond home, or explore the more than 100 murals that dot the city’s walls. Become a repeat visitor to the free Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, which has more than 50,000 works of art representing nearly every major culture in the world.
Kids have so much to explore at the Children’s Museum of Richmond, including exhibits on caves, banks, dinosaurs, Wegman’s grocery store and more. The museum even has $3 carousel rides.
Edgar Allan Poe lived in Richmond at various points in his life. The city pays homage to the poet’s life and legacy with The Poe Museum, located in the historic Shockoe Bottom neighborhood.
The delightful South of the James Farmers Market, run by GrowRVA, is held every Saturday all year long in the Forest Hill neighborhood. The open-air, producer-only market features farmers and artisans selling locally grown and handmade items. PSA: No visit is complete without grabbing a donut to go!
Pair tacos and margs at Lolita’s, and save room for desserts like espresso flan.
Watch Shakespeare plays in the outdoor courtyard of a 16th-century manor home.
Enjoy a local craft brew with friends at Hardywood. Be sure to grab a slice from their pizza kitchen, too.
The Local and State Economy in Richmond, VA
Richmond’s key industries include advanced manufacturing, technology and information technology. Capital One is one of the largest employers in Richmond, followed by Virginia Commonwealth University Health System and several other health care providers.
In 2024, the sales tax rate in Richmond is 6%.
Yes, Virginia has a state income tax.
Richmond’s residents have access to the nationally ranked VCU Medical Center, which is ranked in both children’s and adult specialties. The flagship hospital of the VCU Health System is known for its comprehensive range of medical services.
Richmond is home to several colleges and universities, including Virginia Commonwealth University, University of Richmond and Reynolds Community College.
Weather in Richmond, VA
Average Temperatures
69 high / 47 low
Average Annual Rainfall
44 in
Average Annual Snowfall
10 in
Quick Facts about Richmond, Virginia
- Median Home Value
- $327,167
- Median Property Tax
- $2,389
- Total Population
- 230,595
- Average Commute
- 19 min
- Median Household Income
- $60,218
- Median Monthly Rent
- $987
Map of Richmond, VA
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