Richmond, VA
Richmond is the capital of Virginia and one of the oldest cities in the United States, with a rich history and a vibrant cultural scene. Located on the James River, the city played an important role in the American Revolution and Civil War. Today, Richmond is a thriving urban center with a population of over 200,000 people, known for its diverse neighborhoods, historic architecture, and world-class museums. The city is also home to a number of universities and colleges, including Virginia Commonwealth University and the University of Richmond, as well as a thriving arts and cultural scene with numerous galleries, theaters, and music venues. Richmond has a rich food scene with many locally owned restaurants and breweries, as well as several large parks and outdoor spaces for recreation. Despite its many attractions, Richmond has faced challenges with poverty, crime, and racial inequality, and the city is working to address these issues and promote equity and inclusion for all of its residents.
STATISTICS
INDICATORS
Region
South
Population (2020)
226,670
The chart below displays this city's performance across all indicators vs. averages for the 25 cities
% Non-White Population
54.8
Median Income (2020)
$51,421
Average Home Value (2022)
$324,748
Average Annual Cost of Living
$21,082
Housing, transportation and energy costs as a percent of median income
Averages
City Data
CHALLENGES
Crime: Richmond's crime rate is above the national average, with higher rates of violent crime and property crime.
Poverty and Inequality: Like many cities, Richmond struggles with poverty and inequality, with high rates of poverty and a significant income gap between rich and poor residents.
Transportation: Richmond's public transportation system is limited, making it difficult for some residents to access jobs, education, and other opportunities.
Affordable Housing: Richmond's cost of living has risen in recent years, and the city is facing a shortage of affordable housing, which is driving up prices and making it difficult for some residents to find suitable housing.
Racial Tension: Richmond has a complex racial history, and tensions between different racial and ethnic groups continue to simmer in some parts of the city.
BRIGHT SPOTS
Rich History: Richmond is home to several significant historic sites, including St. John's Church, where Patrick Henry gave his famous "Give me liberty or give me death" speech, and the Virginia State Capitol, designed by Thomas Jefferson.
Cultural Vibrancy: Richmond boasts a thriving arts and cultural scene, with several museums, galleries, and performance venues, including the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts and the Richmond Symphony Orchestra.
Outdoor Recreation: The James River runs through Richmond, offering opportunities for kayaking, tubing, fishing, and hiking along its banks. There are also many parks and green spaces throughout the city, including the stunning Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden.
Higher Education: Richmond is home to several prestigious universities, including Virginia Commonwealth University and the University of Richmond, which contribute to the city's intellectual and cultural vitality.
Economic Growth: Richmond has experienced steady economic growth in recent years, with a strong healthcare industry, a growing technology sector, and a thriving arts and cultural economy.