R ichmond is the state capital of Virginia and located on the scenic James River. It lies just to the south of Washington D.C. and west of the Chesapeake Bay. The Appalachian Mountains begin their ascent to the sky just outside of town. Richmond is a four seasons town and in the heart of the Historic Richmond Region, you will find one of the most impressive Fall displays in the nation. This is a gentile community rich with history. It is a popular destination for both American and international tourists, who come to stroll the many gardens and plantations, shop in the many boutiques and antique shops, and dine it its world class restaurants.

Richmond supports a population of nearly 200,000 residents, whose median age is 34 years old. The average household income in the area is approximately $33,000 per year. There are affordable housing options throughout Richmond, as well as executive-style properties from the antebellum age. Retail trade is the largest employment sector in Richmond, closely followed by manufacturing, finance, insurance and professional services.

B estJobsUsa.com named Richmond to its Top Five list of Best Places to Live and Work. And America Online recently named it one of the best cities for singles. Additionally, the area is home to several fine universities, including the University of Richmond, Virginia Commonwealth University, and Virginia Union University.

Within the city, Richmond has several unique districts, each possessing an identity of its own. Carytown is the place to shop and people watch. It is a picturesque mix of upscale boutiques, homeopathic shops, cafes, and neighborhood grocers, most of which are locally owned. Shockoe Bottom was the first development in the region in the 1700's. There is certainly still a sense of history here. But the Shockoe Bottom of today is a hip bohemian district, where artists and musicians live in loft apartments. Many professional services have taken over the lower levels of sprawling former warehouses, creating beautiful office space at eye level. This has led to a gentrification of sorts, as many of these spacious old buildings are converted to modern living spaces.

Along the appropriately named Monument Avenue, history comes to life. This street began as a tribute to General Robert E. Lee, with a statue placed to commemorate him in 1890. Throughout the years, more local notables have been added. Now the street has larger than life representations of Stonewall Jackson, J.E.B. Stuart and Arthur Ashe.

Of course, this part of America is a land of "firsts". Nearby Berkeley Plantation was the site of the first Thanksgiving in 1619. Today, it is a gorgeous site, and a popular day trip. It is said that an Anglican priest distilled the first batch of bourbon here as well. The Westover Plantation is also open to visitors, and is well known for its magnificently landscaped grounds.

Richmond is a diverse yet gentile community with an equally thriving nightlife and nod to history. There are a variety of architecturally significant housing options, as well as new developments and condominiums. Its neighborhoods are distinct and a perfect place for an afternoon stroll. With all this going on, you might consider moving to Richmond yourself!