Why Everyone’s Talking About Leaving Richmond (And Why People Are Still Moving Here)
If you’ve been following the headlines—or maybe even your own friends—you’ve probably heard people say, “Everyone’s leaving Richmond.”
And yes, it’s true. Some longtime Richmonders are packing up, moving for jobs, family, or a slower lifestyle elsewhere. But here’s the twist: at the very same time, just as many (if not more) people are moving into Richmond.
So what’s really happening? And if you’re considering relocating to Richmond, Virginia in 2026, what does that mean for you?
As a Richmond relocation specialist, I help families, retirees, and professionals navigate this exact decision every single day. Let’s break down both sides of the story.
👉 Short on time? Head over to the Moving to Richmond Virginia YouTube Channel to watch a video on this topic.
Why Some People Are Leaving Richmond
Every city has its trade-offs, and Richmond is no exception. The biggest reasons I hear from clients who decide to leave are:
Rising Home Prices. Richmond is still more affordable than places like DC or Northern Virginia, but prices here have climbed over the past decade. Some homeowners are cashing out and moving to smaller towns or lower-cost areas.
Lifestyle Shifts. Empty-nesters who raised families here sometimes crave a slower pace or want to be closer to kids and grandkids in other states.
Job Relocations. Richmond has a solid job market, but corporate transfers and remote opportunities make moving easier than ever.
But here’s the important part: none of this means Richmond is “dying” or “not worth moving to.” In fact, it’s the opposite.
Why People Are Moving To Richmond
For every family leaving, another is discovering Richmond’s charm. And honestly? That’s why I love helping people relocate here. Richmond checks a lot of boxes for today’s buyers:
Cost of Living Advantage. Compared to big East Coast cities, Richmond offers more space, more house, and a lower overall cost of living.
Thriving Job Market. Healthcare, finance, government, and tech all have a strong presence here. Plus, remote workers find Richmond perfectly located with quick access to DC, the beach, and the mountains.
Lifestyle + Culture. Richmond has history, but it’s not stuck in the past. From a buzzing food scene to outdoor trails along the James River, it’s the perfect mix of city energy and small-town charm.
Neighborhood Variety. Whether you want a walkable community, a quiet cul-de-sac, or land in the countryside, the Richmond metro area has an option.
So—Should You Relocate to Richmond in 2026?
Here’s the truth: every move comes with pros and cons. Richmond is no different. What matters most is whether it fits your lifestyle, budget, and future plans.
If you’re on the fence, that’s where I come in. I work one-on-one with families and individuals relocating to Richmond, helping you weigh the trade-offs, compare neighborhoods, and ultimately find the place where you’ll love to live.
Let’s Make Your Move to Richmond Simple
If you’re planning a move, don’t rely just on Google searches and Facebook groups—you deserve a local expert who understands not just the housing market, but also the lifestyle you’re stepping into.
I’m Holly Fye, a Richmond relocation realtor, and I specialize in helping people like you land confidently here in RVA.
📲 Ready to start your Richmond journey? Let’s connect today and map out your relocation game plan.
