What looks like a laid-back Southern capital at first glance quickly reveals itself as a city full of character: historic rowhomes, cobblestone streets, a seriously underrated food scene, and the James River weaving right through it all. Richmond, VA is the kind of place where you can spend the morning at a local coffee shop, the afternoon on the river, and the evening brewery-hopping or catching live music. The best part? You can do all of this without needing to drive too far!
That mix of history, creativity, and everyday livability is exactly why so many renters are drawn here. Richmond offers a range of options without the overwhelm (or price tags) of bigger East Coast cities.
The five best neighborhoods in Richmond for renters are:
Malvern Gardens
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Average 1-bedroom rent in Richmond: $1,433/month
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Average 1-bedroom rent in Malvern Gardens: $1,315/month
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Average 1-bedroom square footage: 480 square feet
Why Malvern Gardens is good for renters
If you want a taste of that cozy, suburban lifestyle while still being in the city, Malvern Gardens has got you covered. Tree-lined streets and nearby parks make it easy to enjoy outdoor time, while local shopping and dining options are just a short drive away. Renters benefit from slightly lower-than-average rents compared to the city overall, making it a solid value pick. The neighborhood also provides convenient access to major expressways for commuting around Richmond.
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Fairly Walkable |
Limited Public Transit |
Very Drivable |
Fairly Bikeable |
50
Malvern Gardens has a walkability score of 50 out of 100. |
30
Malvern Gardens has a transit score of 30 out of 100. |
80
Malvern Gardens has a drivability score of 80 out of 100. |
40
Malvern Gardens has a bikeability score of 40 out of 100. |
Keep in mind
Public transit options are limited, so having a car is helpful. Entertainment options are more low-key compared to downtown neighborhoods.
Scott’s Addition
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Average 1-bedroom rent in Richmond: $1,433/month
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Average 1-bedroom rent in Scott’s Addition: $1,702/month
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Average 1-bedroom square footage: 683 square feet
Why Scott’s Addition is good for renters
Scott’s Addition is one of Richmond’s fastest-growing neighborhoods, known for its industrial-chic apartments, lively social scene, and for being a part of the “Virginia Beer Boom.” Breweries, restaurants, and entertainment venues are packed into this walkable area, making it easy to stay busy even when close to home. Many tourists and locals alike flock to Scott’s Addition stapes like Veil Brewing Company and Buskey Cider.
|
Moderately Walkable |
Limited Public Transit |
Exceptionally Drivable |
Fairly Bikeable |
60
Scott’s Addition has a walkability score of 60 out of 100. |
30
Scott’s Addition has a transit score of 30 out of 100. |
90
Scott’s Addition has a drivability score of 90 out of 100. |
50
Scott’s Addition has a bikeability score of 50 out of 100. |
Keep in mind
Scott’s Addition draws in a lively crowd looking to sample the local cuisine and beers. Therefore, this area can get busy and noisy, especially on weekends or holidays.
The Fan
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Average 1-bedroom rent in Richmond: $1,433
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Average 1-bedroom rent in The Fan: $1,178
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Average 1-bedroom square footage: 680 square feet
Why The Fan is good for renters
Did you know that a Richmond neighborhood has one of the largest collections of Victorian homes in the United States? Welcome to The Fan, the district that proudly holds that accolade! Even though The Fan is known for its historic charm, it also offers plenty of luxury apartments and lofts in diverse architectural styles. Renters enjoy a highly walkable environment thanks to Main Street, offering easy access to local cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops. With rents well below the city average and proximity to Virginia Commonwealth University, it’s a great option for students looking for apartments.
|
Very Walkable |
Some Public Transit |
Moderately Drivable |
Moderately Bikeable |
80
The Fan has a walkability score of 80 out of 100. |
40
The Fan has a transit score of 40 out of 100. |
60
The Fan has a drivability score of 60 out of 100. |
60
The Fan has a bikeability score of 60 out of 100. |
Keep in mind
Many buildings are older, which can mean fewer modern amenities some apartment communities. Street parking can also be limited.
The Museum District
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Average 1-bedroom rent in Richmond: $1,433
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Average 1-bedroom rent in The Museum District: $1,594
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Average 1-bedroom square footage: 646 square feet
Why the Museum District is good for renters
The Museum District blends culture and convenience, with institutions like the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts and the Virginia Museum of History and Culture just steps away. The neighborhood offers a balance of historic charm and updated apartments, along with easy access to Carytown’s shopping and dining scene. Walkability is a major perk, with parks, cafes, and entertainment options nearby. It’s a great choice for renters who want a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere.
|
Moderately Walkable |
Limited Public Transit |
Moderately Drivable |
Moderately Bikeable |
60
The Museum District has a walkability score of 60 out of 100. |
30
The Museum District has a transit score of 30 out of 100. |
70
The Museum District has a drivability score of 70 out of 100. |
60
The Museum District has a bikeability score of 60 out of 100. |
Keep in mind
Rents are slightly above the city average. Popular areas can get crowded, especially near major attractions.
Mary Munford
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Average 1-bedroom rent in Richmond: $1,433
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Average 1-bedroom rent in Mary Munford: $1,720
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Average 1-bedroom square footage: 809 square feet
Why Mary Munford is good for renters
Mary Munford is a desirable neighborhood with a strong sense of community and charming residential streets. Renters are drawn to its proximity to Carytown, where shops, restaurants, and entertainment options are plentiful. The area offers a peaceful setting while still being close to Richmond’s urban core. Well-maintained homes and apartments add to its appeal.
|
Fairly Walkable |
Limited Public Transit |
Exceptionally Drivable |
Fairly Bikeable |
50
Mary Munford has a walkability score of 50 out of 100 |
30
Mary Munford has a transit score of 30 out of 100. |
90
Mary Munford has a drivability score of 90 out of 100. |
50
Mary Munford has a bikeability score of 50 out of 100. |
Keep in mind
This is one of the pricier neighborhoods in Richmond. Rental availability can be more limited compared to denser areas.
Ready to Make the Move?
If Richmond has caught your eye, take the next step with Apartments.com! Whether you’re dropping in for a short-term lease or hoping to set down roots, we have the tools to help you find the perfect place. Navigate housing across neighborhoods with our customized search engine and use our customizable filters to narrow your search by price, amenities, and floor plan.
Wherever you are and wherever you’re going, the options are endless with Apartments.com.
Apartment rent and cost of living data provided by CoStar Group’s April 2026 reports.
FAQs
Is Richmond a good place to live?
Yes, Richmond is a good place to live for renters who enjoy a mix of history, culture, and modern city living. With its vibrant arts scene, riverfront outdoor recreation, and growing food and beverage culture, Richmond offers a dynamic lifestyle with plenty to explore.
Is Richmond an expensive place to live?
Richmond’s cost of living is five percent below the national average, making it more affordable than many East Coast cities. Rent prices are also typically lower than larger nearby metros, though certain popular neighborhoods can be pricier.
What’s the average rent in Richmond?
The average rent in Richmond is $1,433/month, as of April 2026. This is lower than the national average rent of $1,625/month.
What salary do you need to live in Richmond?
According to our Richmond cost of living data, a comfortable salary to cover housing, utilities, groceries, and goods and services in Richmond would be around $57,312 before taxes.
