The Complete Guide for Moving to Richmond, Virginia
Moving to Richmond, Virginia is an exciting decision that offers a great quality of life and a thriving community. Whether you are relocating for work or simply looking for a change of scenery, this guide will provide you with some helpful tips and insights to help make the transition to your new home as smooth as possible. After you look through this guide for moving to Richmond, if you are thinking about a move and are wanting to live in this wonderful city, call Realtor Nate Simon at 804-304-8694 and we can go over your options. Richmond is easy to love!
Overall, moving to Richmond, Virginia is a great choice for those seeking a high quality of life, affordable living, and a strong sense of community. By following these tips and making the most of what the city has to offer, you’ll be able to make a smooth transition and start enjoying your new home in no time.
Neighborhoods
When it comes to finding a place to live, there are many great neighborhoods to consider in Richmond. Some of the most popular areas include The Fan, Church Hill, Jackson Ward, and Carytown, all of which offer a unique mix of history, culture, and charm. You can also use our online resources like the RVA Neighborhood Search or Richmond Area City/County/Town interactive maps to search for available homes that fit your criteria.
Cost of Living
One of the first things to consider when moving to Richmond is the cost of living. Richmond is generally considered an affordable city to live in, with a low cost of living compared to other major metropolitan areas in the country. Housing costs are relatively low, and there are a variety of neighborhoods to choose from depending on your preferences and budget.
Utilities
Make sure that you have your utilities transferred in time for the move. You will be able to enjoy wifi and cable after unpacking. The main Richmond, Virginia internet providers are Fios through Verizon and Xfinity through Comcast. Electricity is provided by Dominion Energy throughout the Richmond area with parts of some counties using Rappahanock Electric Cooperative. If your home has natural gas appliances in the City of Richmond, Henrico, and northern Chesterfield, get in touch with Richmond Gas Works. Remember to fill out the online change of address form with USPS, so that all your mail will be forwarded to your new residence.
Transportation
When you move to Richmond and want to drive, you must obtain a Virginia driver’s license within 60 days and you must register your vehicle within 30 days through the Department of Motor Vehicles. Your car is required to pass a yearly safety inspection which is shown by month and year in the bottom left of your windshield. DMV provides a moving resources page on their website. When it comes to transportation, Richmond has a well-connected network of roads and highways, and public transportation options such as the bus and the newly opened GRTC Pulse. Biking is also becoming increasingly popular in the city, with designated bike lanes and trails throughout many neighborhoods. Train service is available through Amtrak at Ashland, VA (ASD) in Hanover County, Staples Mill Road Station (RVR) in Henrico County, and Main Street Station (RVM) in the City of Richmond. Richmond International Airport (RIC) is located seven miles southeast of downtown Richmond.
Things To Do Around Richmond
Richmond, Virginia is home to a wide range of cultural attractions, including museums, art galleries, theaters, and music venues. The city also has a thriving food scene, with many locally-owned restaurants and breweries that showcase the best of the region’s cuisine. If you like to go out, amazing restaurants are everywhere. If live music is your thing, there are many venues including Friday Cheers on Brown’s Island, The National, and The Broadberry. There is currently plains to build a 7,500-capacity riverfront amphitheater on the downtown Tredegar hillside that overlooks the James River and to build a 17,000 seat arena just outside of Richmond, in neighboring Henrico County.
Local Community
Finally, one of the most important things to remember when moving to Richmond is to get involved in the local community. There are many local organizations and events that provide opportunities to meet new people and make connections, such as the River City Sports and Social Club, the Historic Richmond’s Quoit Club, Creative Mornings, and many others. If you like live music, Friday Cheers is held every Friday in May and June on Brown’s Island, located at the edge of the southernmost part of the Central Office District along the James River. By getting involved in the community and seeing all that Richmond has to offer, you’ll be able to fully embrace the rich culture and character of this vibrant city.