Living in Richmond, Virginia: What It’s Really Like (From a Local)

If you’ve been Googling “What is it like to live in Richmond, Virginia?” or “Is Richmond VA a good place to live?” — this one’s for you.

I live and work in Richmond, and this city has a personality you don’t fully understand until you’re actually here. It’s not just a place on the map. It’s a mix of history, creativity, grit, growth, and community that surprises people in the best way. So let’s talk about what Richmond is really like, not the brochure version.

Richmond has quietly become one of the most talked-about cities in the Mid-Atlantic, and for good reason.

Here’s why people are choosing Richmond:

• More affordable than DC, Northern Virginia, and many Northeast cities

• Strong job market (healthcare, finance, government, tech, real estate)

• Walkable neighborhoods with real character

• Easy access to nature and city life

• A strong sense of local pride and community

People don’t just move here for space or price — they move here for quality of life.

Richmond Neighborhoods All Feel Different (And That’s the Point) - One of the coolest things about Richmond is that every neighborhood feels like its own mini-city.
A few local favorites:

• The Fan & Museum District – Historic homes, tree-lined streets, walkable everything

• Scott’s Addition – Breweries, apartments, energy, and growth

• Church Hill – History, views, character, and charm

• Short Pump – Suburban convenience, newer homes, shopping, and schools

• Forest Hill – Nature access, river views, and a tight-knit community feel

There’s no “one Richmond.” There’s a Richmond for every lifestyle.

The James River Is the Heart of the City - This surprises people the most. Richmond has whitewater rapids running straight through the city.

You’ll see locals:

• Kayaking before work

• Walking dogs along the river trails

• Swimming, hiking, biking, or just sitting on the rocks

The James River isn’t a bonus feature — it’s part of daily life here.

Richmond’s Food, Coffee, and Brewery Scene Is Legit - Richmond punches way above its weight when it comes to food.

You’ll find:

• Nationally recognized restaurants

• Local coffee shops on nearly every corner

• A huge brewery and craft beer culture

• Food trucks, pop-ups, and chef-driven concepts

And yes — locals are loyal to their spots.

Real Estate in Richmond: What Buyers & Sellers Should Know - Richmond’s real estate market has grown quickly, but it’s still approachable compared to many major metros.

A few things to know:

• Demand remains strong in walkable, central neighborhoods

• Renovated homes and well-priced listings move fast

• Each neighborhood has its own micro-market

• Strategy matters more than ever (pricing, prep, timing)

Whether you’re buying your first home, relocating, or selling, local insight makes a huge difference here.

What Makes Richmond Different - Richmond isn’t flashy. It’s authentic.

People here care about:

• Supporting local businesses

• Community involvement

• Creativity and individuality

• Balance — work, life, and everything in between

It’s a city where people stay longer than they planned to.

Is Richmond, Virginia a Good Place to Live? Short answer: yes — if you value character, community, and lifestyle.

Richmond is ideal for:

• First-time homebuyers

• Growing families

• Creatives and entrepreneurs

• Remote workers

• Anyone who wants city energy without big-city burnout

Thinking About Moving to Richmond?

If Richmond is on your radar — or you’re already here and thinking about buying or selling — local context matters. This city rewards people who understand it. And once you live here, it’s hard not to love it.