family-friendly, low-crime, walkable neighborhood? (Richmond: real estate, apartments, to rent)

[houseblend]

My husband and I are thinking about relocating to Richmond for the nice weather, scenery and cheaper housing. We have a 1 year old daughter and would like to be able to walk to the cafe and the grocery store. I am a bit concerned about the crime rate in a lot of Richmond, though. Are there any neighborhoods that have lots of families, low crime and are nice walking neighborhoods with stores nearby?

[Anders15]

Shockoe Bottom. Carrytown.

[richmondpics]

Shockoe Bottom isn't an ideal choice for someone with an infant...

If you're going to be a smart alick at least spell Carytown correctly.

That said, there are a few different types of options. Depending on your price range and whether you'd like to live in the city or the county(ies), here's a few places that come to mind:

=> The Museum District (which is situated immediately north of Carytown, south of Broad, west of the Boulevard, and east of 195). More info on Carytown - Welcome to Carytown

=> The neighborhoods near Libbie and Grove / Patterson and Libbie ... great collection of cafes, small grocery markets, shops, and an independent movie theater.

=> A new mixed use community such as West Broad Village could end up being a great choice. You could walk to Whole Foods or eat at Kona grill or spend the night at Dave and Busters.

=> Maybe in close proximity to Willow Lawn would be a possibility as well?

[Anders15]

No need to be rude.

[PickPatrick]

I suggest Bellevue - check it out!

Bellevue

[AllTheWayToMemphis]

Bellevue is a great choice. Also, the neighborhoods west of Thompson street would definitely be worth checking into. Shockoe Bottom would be a fine choice if you don't mind the nightclub crowd around on weekend nights.

[vman650]

It may not be important now, but if you live in Richmond, you will need to consider private schools for your daughter. I unfortunately cannot recommend Richmond City public schools at this time. The burbs are fine, with decent schools and shopping. Unfortunately, sidewalks are few and far between except in the newer developments. If you are renting, the city may be fine until your daughter reaches school age. Your best bet is to rent somewhere and scout out the area yourself. Welcome to Richmond.

[richmondpics]

I slightly disagree on the schools... there are quite a few city elementary schools that are very strong. The real concern with city schools is when kids reach middle school age.

Also, depending on how close you are to MacArthur, Bellevue can be very convenient to some great restuarant options. I think Bellevue is a great area (in fact, we're likely considering it in the next year or two), but since it's a bit more spread out it can be a tad less walkable to amenities.

Walkscore would be a good resource to check out (I just picked random addresses):

Bellevue
Walk Score - Helping homebuyers, renters, and real estate agents find houses and apartments in great neighborhoods.

Museum District
Walk Score - Helping homebuyers, renters, and real estate agents find houses and apartments in great neighborhoods.

Libbie and Grove area
Walk Score - Helping homebuyers, renters, and real estate agents find houses and apartments in great neighborhoods.

The Fan District
Walk Score - Helping homebuyers, renters, and real estate agents find houses and apartments in great neighborhoods.