Richmond, VABest Places to Live in the U.S. in 2024

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.

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.

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.