Life in Richmond: Beyond the MCV Campus
Welcome to RVA
As an urban academic medical center, the VCU School of Medicine rests in the heart of Richmond, Va. — affectionately known as RVA to those who live here. We pride ourselves on being active members of our community, with a commitment to engaging and investing in Richmond as learners, researchers, healers and citizens.
“Richmond itself will surprise you, as it did me, as a great place to live.” ― Amy Hazzard, M.D., OB-GYN residency alum
“Being happy at work, and then being happy when you’re not at work, was the most important thing to me, just to have a full life here.” ― Hannah Miller, M.D., Pediatric hospital medicine fellowship alum
No. 1 best American town to visit — (CNN, 2024)
- Metropolitan area population
1.2 million+
- Public transportation
Free local bus fares
- Employment
Home to seven Fortune 500 companies
- Recreation
20+ miles of bike and pedestrian trails
- Dining scene Named a “culinary powerhouse”
— (Food & Wine magazine, 2023)
- Arts and culture Top 10 U.S. city for best street art
— (USA Today, 2024)
Neighborhood spotlight: The Fan and Museum District
Known for their tree-lined streets, walkability and proximity to restaurants, coffee shops and other local businesses, the Fan and the Museum District are popular destinations for members of the VCU School of Medicine community.
But don’t take our word for it — learn more about these neighborhoods from two recent graduates who have lived in the area for years.
Neighborhoods of RVA
A true patchwork of a city, Richmond is made up of more than a dozen distinctive neighborhoods, each with its own culture, character and history.Explore RVA’s neighborhoods