Apartments for Rent in Richmond
People have been settling in Richmond successfully for roughly 275 years, and guess what? You can, too! There's just a few things to know about Richmond before you start your apartment hunting journey!
Founded in 1737, it is one of America’s most tenured cities and played critical roles in both the Revolutionary and Civil Wars. Outsiders continue to flock to the city to visit Richmond National Battlefield Park and Hollywood Cemetery, among other historic locations. Be prepared: Richmond is a hotbed for Civil War reenactments, so if you’re sitting on your favorite barstool in Shockoe Botton one night and you see a blood-stained Johnny Reb stumbling by, you’re not hallucinating or seeing a ghost.
Roughly 75 percent of buildings in Richmond, including rental properties, were built prior to 1970, so hopefully you appreciate a certain degree of antiquity in your living quarters. However, also keep in mind that Richmond is one of those rare cities in Virginia where renters outnumber buyers (by more than seven percent in this case). So be choosy and don’t settle on a pad until you’re sure it’s exactly what your little heart desires.
When you move-in, chances are your apartment manager will give you a checklist so you can note anything that isn’t completely perfect in your new pad. Don’t blow this off! Apartments tend to turn over very quickly in Richmond, and property managers don’t always have the chance to examine every last nook and cranny of vacant units for blemishes. You don’t want to get blamed – or worse, lose your deposit – for something that happened before your time.
Average Rent in Richmond
The following rent averages come from current listings on our website. Rent prices listed are averages and may not reflect the cost of specific units. Rental prices can vary depending on factors like size, location, amenities, and availability.
How Much Is Rent for a Studio Apartment in Richmond?
On average, expect to pay around $1,139 per month for a studio apartment in Richmond.
How Much Is Rent for a 1-Bedroom Apartment in Richmond?
The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Richmond is approximately $1,552 per month.
How Much Is Rent for a 2-Bedroom Apartment in Richmond?
In Richmond, a 2-bedroom apartment typically rents for around $1,949 per month.
How Much Is Rent for a 3-Bedroom Apartment in Richmond?
A 3-bedroom apartment in Richmond will cost, on average, $2,503 per month.
Transportation in Richmond
The most convenient way to maneuver throughout the city is (big surprise alert!) via your own vehicle. Traffic is rarely backed up in Richmond and parking spaces are easy enough to find, so if you have your own gas-guzzler, you’re in good shape. If not, you can always take the GRTC city buses that service the area, but be sure to have either exact change or a nifty little GRTC Go Card (available everywhere anything at all is sold…).
Pet-Friendly Apartment Hunting in Richmond
Finding a pet-friendly apartment in Richmond can feel overwhelming, but don't despair! While the city boasts a vibrant mix of cultures and energy, pet policies can vary significantly.
- Weight & breed restrictions: While dogs are popular even in the busiest parts of the city, be aware that many buildings (especially high-rises) have weight or breed limits for pets, often stricter than other locations.
- Building size and amenities: Larger buildings and those with dedicated pet amenities like dog runs are more likely to be pet-friendly.
The good news? Major rental listing websites like Apartment List allow filtering by pet-friendliness. Simply select “Dog-Friendly” or “Cat-Friendly” in your preferences when you start your search.
FAQs about Apartments in Richmond
Still have questions about renting in Richmond? Here are some of the most commonly asked questions from people who are moving to the city for the first time:
Is Richmond cheap to live in?
At a median rate of $1,250 a month for a one-bedroom, and ranking as the 22nd most expensive city in the nation for renters, Richmond is not especially cheap. We estimate you would need to earn around $50,000 to afford a one-bedroom in Richmond.
What is a livable salary in Richmond?
Using a budgeting rule that says rent should not be more than 30% of your income, we estimate you would need to earn around $50,000 to afford a one bedroom at a median rate of $1,250 in Richmond. You need closer to $60,000 to afford a two-bedroom for $1,425.
Why do people move to Richmond?
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Job Market: Richmond has a healthy job market with growth in several sectors, making it an attractive destination for professionals.
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History and Culture: Richmond is steeped in American history, with Civil War sites and museums alongside a vibrant arts scene, breweries, and trendy restaurants, offering a unique blend of old and new.
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Livable City: Richmond offers a variety of neighborhoods, from walkable areas close to downtown to family-friendly suburbs with good schools. The city also has a growing focus on outdoor activities with parks, trails, and access to nature.
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Accessibility: Richmond is a manageable size, with most areas being within a 20-30 minute commute from the city center. Additionally, it's close to mountains and beaches for weekend getaways.
Richmond Neighborhoods
So which neighborhood in Richmond is right for you? You have your choice of 50-plus distinct ‘hoods to pick from, including:
Downtown Richmond
The downtown area, especially the Monroe Ward and Shockoe Slip areas, are ideal for those who want to be in the hub of the city’s commerce and culture (average apartment cost is around $900). The historical neighborhood of Jackson Ward is also downtown and has some rental houses available in the $1200 range.
Shockoe Bottom
The epicenter of Richmond’s nightlife is Shockoe Bottom, on the banks of the James River. Just be prepared to spend close to a grand for a 1 BR and $1300-plus for a multi-room unit.
Tobacco Row
Remember those “eclectic” living spaces we promised? We were talking about Tobacco Row, whose clusters of former tobacco factories have been transformed into chic, spacious lofts and condos. Riverside rentals are currently available in the $700 range for the smallest units (600 square feet), while the more roomy digs (1100-plus square feet) will cost you close to $1200.
Entertainment in Richmond
Richmond residents who like to have their fun under the sun won’t be disappointed. Popular daytime recreational haunts include Belle Isle on the James River, Monument Avenue, and Maymont Park (one of the country’s most aesthetic urban parks). Numerous other parks and museums (including the Edgar Allen Poe Museum) are spread throughout the city as well.
If a musical genre exists, there’s a live band in Richmond playing it right now. Throughout Shockoe Bottom, the downtown area, and the Fan District, music junkies will find an endless stream of live music venues with bands exploring every genre from punk, funk, and indie to bluegrass, hip hop, and – sorry to say it – disco. Never fear, techno-tronic enthusiasts: The Shockoe Bottom ‘hood also serves up its fair share of pulse-pounding club music, so don’t forget to pack your glittery shirts and glow sticks.
