Richmond is a city of contrasts, which makes it an interesting place to retire. Several news outlets recognize this historic city as a great place for older adults to call home. Richmond features easy access to history, art galleries, lively concerts and an endless selection of natural sites and entertainment venues. Here are a few of the top reasons you should retire in Richmond, VA.
Top Reasons to Retire in Richmond, VA
Virginia is rated the #6 state for retirement
The website Bankrate ranks the best and worst states in which to retire, according to cost of living, weather, quality of health care, crime, taxes, cultural vitality, overall well-being of older adults and prevalence of older adults in the community. In 2017, Bankrate ranked Virginia as the sixth best state to retire, beating out traditional retirement hotspots, such as Arizona, Texas and Florida.
Richmond is ranked as a great place to retire
U.S. News analyzed 100 metropolitan areas in the United States and ranked Richmond as the #32 best place to retire. The magazine bases their rankings on housing affordability, desirability, happiness, retiree taxes and healthcare quality. The magazine then gives each metro area a score of one to ten, with ten being the best.
Easy access
Richmond offers easy access to Interstates 95 for north/south traffic and 64 for east/west traffic. E-ZPass-enabled toll roads connect suburban areas to the metro area for easy commutes. In addition, of Bankrate’s top ten best places to retire, only Virginia touches an ocean; and Richmond is just over 100 miles from the ocean at Virginia Beach.
A history buff’s dream
Founded in 1737, Richmond is one of America’s most historic cities. You can visit historic St. John’s Church where Patrick Henry spoke those famous words, “Give me liberty or give me death.” The American Civil War Museum and the Virginia Historical Society are also located in Richmond.
The weather
Richmond has a wonderful temperate climate, so you can enjoy comfortable temperatures during retirement. While balmy summers are guaranteed in Virginia, you will still be treated to the occasional dusting of snow during the winter.
Life in the fast lane
You will never run out of fun things to do in Richmond. NASCAR fans race to Richmond Raceway for fun. The Richmond metro area is packed with more than 100 local parks and a never-ending choice of recreational activities, from hiking at Pocahontas State Park to watching an NCAA basketball game.
See great athletes
While the Redskins play football for Washington, their summer training camp is in Richmond. Every July, Bon Secours Washington Redskins Training Center becomes base camp for talented NFL players and their fans.
Richmond is beautiful
Richmond is the only region in the United States where whitewater rapids run through its downtown district. The James River Park System spans more than 550 acres of beautiful shorelines and islands.
The Wetlands, which are a quiet section of the James River Park System, are a great place to get back to nature. The Wetlands are part of Pony Pasture Rapids Park, which features a pond, walking trails, sandy beaches, wildlife blinds and plenty of opportunities for bird watching.
The Richmond Mural Project aims to create more than 100 internationally recognized murals by world-renowned artists. Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden boasts 50 acres of themed gardens and a classical domed conservatory.
Fresh food
17th Street Farmer’s Market is a great place to pick up fresh food and local produce. The site of the 17th Street Farmer’s Market has served as a public gathering place since 1737. Today, the 17th Street Farmer’s Market is one of the oldest public markets in the United States.
Richmond is for music lovers
Between its outdoor concerts, historic music venues, rooftops and clubs, Richmond provides plenty of opportunities to get your music groove on.
Built in 1923, The National is the only working auditorium on Richmond’s famous “Theatre Row” to survive. The National originally staged live entertainment and early motion pictures. Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2003 and restored in 2008, The National now serves as a performing arts and music venue.
Richmond Jazz Festival attracts more than 10,000 music fans each August. Dominion Riverrock is the nation’s largest outdoor sports and music festival. Through music, dance, storytelling, traditional crafts and food, the Richmond Folk Festival celebrates the roots, richness and variety of American culture.
The Richmond Symphony presents orchestral masterpieces, contemporary works, chamber concerts, popular music, neighborhood programming and even music education.
Regular features at the Byrd Theatre are only $4 per person. The Byrd Theatre features the Mighty Wurlitzer Organ, a custom-made organ installed when the theater was built in 1928. This theater is open 365 days a year, regardless of weather.
Splendid living accommodations at a reasonable cost
If you are like many retirees, you don’t want to spend a fortune on where you live. You will be glad to know that Richmond housing costs are lower than the national average, which means you can find a great place to live without breaking the bank.
Verena at the Glen is a great place to retire. This pet-friendly retirement community offers a variety of activities, events, programs and other ways to socialize and connect with like-minded peers. Our prime Glen Allen location is a short distance to a number of outdoor recreation areas, including nearly a dozen parks, fantastic dining and shopping. Contact us today to schedule a tour.
