Founded in 1737, Richmond is a region of contrasts. Southern traditions and nearly 80 historic attractions exist side by side with a young downtown filled with trendy housing, cutting-edge art galleries, concert venues and a bevy of restaurants. The Richmond metro area features more than 100 local parks and plenty of recreational activities, from the Kings Dominion amusement park located nearby to the many opportunities to hike Pocahontas State Park to the chance to catch an NCAA basketball game or a NASCAR auto race. The temperate climate offers cool fall days with spectacular foliage, pleasant spring weather and generally mild winters, although snow is common. Summer is often hot and humid, but the region’s many warm-weather festivals help take residents’ minds off the sometimes-oppressive heat.

Although the median age in Richmond is nearly 39, the region feels much younger, especially from September to May when the streets are filled with college students.

While urban professionals are attracted to the industrial lofts and historic row houses in the downtown area, as well as the upscale communities on the West End, young families also can enjoy the single-family homes in the suburbs, which boast several acclaimed 50-plus communities for retirees.