Not sure if this has been asked before, but I'm a teacher here and You can expect to pay around $1,895 for rent here. Average temperature is around 56--F, so the weather is moderate. Household incomes average around $90,038 in Richmond. Homes are going for about $650,100 on average. The suburbs are where most families end up. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much.
46 upvotes
11 Replies
Emily Martinez
Totally agree!
38 upvotes
Eva James
I've been living here for 1 years and I'd say I genuinely enjoy living here. The weather is pretty good compared to other places I've lived. Overall Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for..
37 upvotes
Sadie Edwards
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.
Background: I'm a teacher, 37, moved here 15 years ago from Boston. I've lived in Greenfield and Pine Hills, and traveled to most parts of the metro.
**What I love:**
1. Low crime in most neighborhoods
2. Decent public transit for the size
3. Close to major attractions
4. The people are generally solid - I found my community within the first year
**What I don't love:**
1. Summers can be brutally hot
2. Limited shopping options
3. The dating scene situation is competitive and doesn't seem to be improving
**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Greenfield: Great for young professionals. tough vibes, walkable.
- Pine Hills: More affordable, family-friendly.
**Neighborhoods I'd avoid:**
- Without naming names, stay away from areas east of downtown until you know the city better.
**Cost comparison:**
Coming from Boston, everything felt average. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are affordable. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $100K-$130K here.
**Final verdict:**
Give it a chance - it might surprise you.. It's not perfect - nowhere is - but for the price point and quality of life, it's hard to beat. DM me if you have specific questions.
36 upvotes
fresno_sebastian
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's not perfect but it works for me. Internet is average in most areas.
29 upvotes
Jordan Adams
following this thread
27 upvotes
Adrian Ward
this is the way
18 upvotes
Aiden Garcia
The food scene here is improving. Tons of great Indian places. it's not perfect but it works for me.
18 upvotes
Genesis G.
seconding this
16 upvotes
Logan Foster
Real talk - this place is not for everyone, and I think that's OK.
If you value pet-friendliness, you'll love it. The nightlife is genuinely pretty good and I've found I'm still on the fence after all this time. My neighborhood (Lakewood) is wild and I feel safe walking around at night.
But if you're coming from Atlanta, be prepared for the culture shock. healthcare is completely different here. And Not very walkable outside downtown.
My advice would be to visit for at least a week before committing. Rent first, don't buy. And explore multiple neighborhoods - they're all different.
16 upvotes
coastal_isaac21
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, it's improved dramatically in recent years. It's not for everyone but it works for us..
6 upvotes
Colton T.
Hot take but the quality of life is solid. I know a lot of people disagree but after 12 years here, that's my honest assessment.
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