Why Move to Central Virginia?
Central Virginia is known for its diverse communities, strong economy, and affordable living costs compared to other metropolitan areas. It offers:
- Lower housing costs compared to Northern Virginia, Maryland, and major East Coast cities
- Mild four-season climate with warm summers and mild winters
- Access to top schools and universities, including VCU and the University of Richmond
- A thriving job market in industries like healthcare, finance, and tech
- Proximity to major highways (I-95, I-64, I-295) for easy travel to Washington, D.C., and Virginia Beach
Living in Richmond, Chesterfield, and Henrico
Richmond – The Urban Hub
As Virginia’s capital city, Richmond is a cultural and economic center with a mix of historic and modern neighborhoods. It's known for:
-
Vibrant downtown and riverfront living
- Top-rated restaurants and breweries, including the Fan District and Scott’s Addition
- Rich history and museums, such as the American Civil War Museum and the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
- A strong job market in government, healthcare, and technology
The cost of living in Richmond is 4% lower than the national average, making it more affordable than nearby cities like Washington, D.C.
Chesterfield County – Suburban Living with Space to Grow
Located just south of Richmond, Chesterfield County offers:
- Family-friendly neighborhoods with highly rated schools
- New construction homes in communities like Magnolia Green and Harpers Mill
- Outdoor recreation, including Pocahontas State Park and the James River
- Lower property taxes than many Northern Virginia counties
Housing costs in Chesterfield are about 10-15% lower than Richmond, offering more space and newer homes for the same price.
Henrico County – Convenience and Community
Just north of Richmond, Henrico County blends suburban charm with easy city access. It features:
- Highly rated schools and established neighborhoods like Short Pump and Glen Allen
- Premier shopping and dining, including Short Pump Town Center and Innsbrook
- Proximity to Richmond International Airport and major highways
- A diverse housing market, from affordable townhomes to luxury estates
Henrico offers a lower tax burden than many other Virginia counties while still providing excellent amenities.
Cost of Living: How Far Does Your Money Go?
Compared to many states, Central Virginia offers a lower cost of living, especially in housing, taxes, and transportation. Here’s how it compares:
|
Expense |
Richmond, VA |
Washington, D.C. |
Northern VA (Fairfax, Arlington) |
Charlotte, NC |
|
Median Home Price |
$340,000 |
$620,000 |
$650,000 |
$370,000 |
|
Avg. Rent (2BR) |
$1,600 |
$2,500 |
$2,800 |
$1,700 |
|
Gas Prices (per gallon) |
$2.50 |
$3.80 |
$3.60 |
$2.70 |
|
State Income Tax |
2%-5.75% |
4%-8.95% |
4%-8.95% |
5.25% |
|
Property Tax Rate |
0.72% |
0.85% |
1.00% |
0.85% |
Taxes in Virginia
- Income Tax: Virginia has a progressive income tax rate from 2% to 5.75%, lower than Maryland and D.C.
- Property Taxes:
- Chesterfield County – 0.92%
- Henrico County – 0.87%
- Richmond City – 1.20% (higher but with city amenities)
- Sales Tax: 5.3% statewide, with some areas adding up to 1%
Moving to Central Virginia: Expenses to Expect
- Moving Costs: Hiring movers in Central Virginia costs between $1,500 and $4,500, depending on distance and home size.
- Utility Costs: The average monthly utility bill is around $393, covering electricity, gas, water, and internet.
- Commuting: Gas prices in Richmond and surrounding areas are below the national average, making commuting more affordable.
Selling a Home? Our Pay-at-Close Concierge Service Can Help
If you’re selling a home in Chesterfield, Richmond, or Henrico, we offer a pay-at-close concierge service that allows you to:
-
Make necessary repairs with no upfront costs
- Work with trusted contractors who complete the work now and get paid at closing
- Increase your home’s value and sell for top dollar
This program helps sellers who need updates but want to avoid out-of-pocket expenses before listing.
Military Relocation and VA Loan Assistance
As a military family, we understand the challenges of relocating. We specialize in military relocations to Fort Gregg-Adams (formerly Fort Lee) and offer closing cost assistance for VA homebuyers. If you're using a VA loan, we’ll guide you through the process and help you maximize your benefits.
Final Thoughts: Is Central Virginia Right for You?
If you’re looking for affordable living, great job opportunities, and a high quality of life, Richmond, Chesterfield, and Henrico are excellent choices. With a strong housing market, lower taxes, and an affordable cost of living, your money goes further here than in many other East Coast cities.
Thinking About Moving? Let’s Talk!
If you're considering relocating to Central Virginia, we’d love to help. Whether you're buying, selling, or just exploring your options, we’re here to provide expert guidance.
📞 Call/Text: (804) 792-3737
🌐 Website: garnerrealtyllc.com
📍 Office: 9401 Courthouse Rd, Chesterfield, VA 23832
Let’s make your move to Central Virginia a success. Reach out today!
