How long a drive is it from Richmond to Midlothian? And a couple of more questions...Please read:) (Chester: high crime)

[gimme it]

I had never considered Richmond, but I looked at the pictures that someone posted and I was floored. I love the looks of this place. I had no idea how lovely it was. Anyway, we are family with a school aged child and we are planning a move in the next couple of years. We have a short list of places to explore and I think Richmond is going to be added to this list.

From what I can see, Midlothian has some nice housing stock and some highly rated schools. Are there any similar areas in the Richmond area? We like established neighborhoods that are family oriented. From the Citi-Data stats it appears that Richmond has a high crime rate. Are there safe neighborhoods and good schools in Richmond proper? We would only want to spend under $275k for a house, and schools are extremely important.

I appreciate any feedback.

[gimme it]

I'm surprised that I didn't get any responses. Did I word my questions the wrong way??

[ellieb128]

If schools are your top priority I think you would like what you can find in NW Chesterfield County. The schools are fantastic, there are lots of older established neighborhoods and new ones. You are close enough to the city that a run to Cary Street is 20 minutes. Your price range is going to make the housing selection a little tighter but it can be done. Look in the James River HS and Midlothian HS areas. If you go farther out you can get more house, still find some great schools but I like the proximity to the city that this area offers.

I can get downtown in 20-25 minutes easily.

I don't think you will find the quality of schools in the City to match those in the surrounding counties. It sounds like they are improving and there are some good schools in the city but they can't match those in Chesterfield and Henrico.

[meskito]

Some areas of Richmond ARE beautiful, but you can go one block away and be in a scary ghetto. Just sayin. If schools are your priority, don't live in the city!

[Paul Hammond]

Fox School district in the fan is excellent. Maggie L Walker's Governors School is the top magnet school in or outside the city.

[dom1970]

Chesterfield County schools tend to be a mixed bag; it goes without saying that what you get is largely predicated on the relative affluence of the surrounding area. As far as Richmond...some excellent elementary schools, but beyond that, I'd give it a wide berth.