Planned move to Richmond from Massachusetts (Forest: job market, neighborhoods, living) - City-Data Forum

wmassjb · 06-21-2009, 12:29 PM

Hello all!

Let me preface this by first of saying that we are a gay male couple, both in our early 30's. We have grown tired of the harsh winter's here in New England and we are seeking a warmer climate. We also are interested in Richmond for it's diverse history and culture.
I work in medical billing and my partner is a visionary artist. Based on our research we have determined that the Fan or monument area seems to be a nice ft for us.

We are planning a summer visit during July, so if anyone knows of a nice event around July 24th let me know..lol

I was hoping that some local folks could tell me how the job market is there now..I know bad question since it is harsh most everywhere. Does anyone know what pay range should be expected for a medical biller?

Also if anyone can share their perspective regarding how things are there for a gay couple?
Coming from Massachusetts it is a bit frightening, knowing that other areas are not quite as tolerant.
We have been seeing statistically that Richmond is dangerous. Boston on the other hand, we feel safe and we have a higher population here.

Thank you all for your insight, and have a great day!

PickPatrick · 06-21-2009, 07:21 PM

Hey guys:

Check out Venture Richmond and www.richmond.com
for up coming events. I also sent you a direct message with some other answers for you.

ric75 · 06-22-2009, 01:45 PM

You'd likely feel most comfortable somewhere in the Fan District or the Shockoe area. I think you'll find the City and most parts of the region tolerant but if you are looking for an "active" gay community, there is far more going on within City limits though from what I hear it's still not too terribly busy. If your partner plans on getting into the local arts scene here are a couple of good links...

artspacegallery.org
First Fridays Artwalk Richmond, VA

There are definitely some dangerous neighborhoods here but if you steer clear of the northeast quadrant and the Jeff Davis corridor you're likely fine. The Westover Hills/Woodland Heights/Forest Hill neighborhoods on the South side are nice neighborhoods as well. They are close to downtown and the James River Park system and have a quieter feel to them than the Fan. A few more links you may fnd useful are...

Richmond Virginia Blogs on Art, Politics, News, & Life in Richmond - RVABlogs and Richmond News, Local Sports, Entertainment & Richmond Community Events | RVANews

Rvanews.com has links to neighborhood blogs that can give you a better feel for what they are like. Hope you guys find what you are looking for!

roanoker 4 · 06-23-2009, 02:42 PM

You realize this is Virginia? A state which does not recognize its gay citizens for any civil rights whatsoever? The citizens of this state went to the polls and basically amended the state consitution to prevent gays from marriage
and stripped them of any rights period. Think about that if you encounter job
or housing discrimination. Your life and career could be ruined. Yes, the weather is milder but you should definately think this one through. On the other hand, you could be a pioneer and join the effort to change our medieval laws but I warn you it will not be easy. Good Luck to you and I do hope you find what you are looking for in Virginia. I am sorry for the blunt
comments but this is the real world.

BayAreaHillbilly · 06-24-2009, 02:25 PM

Is that correct?

No domestic partnership of any kind?

Or is "stripped them of any rights period" an over the top exaggeration?

Curious.

wmassjb · 06-24-2009, 02:31 PM

from the sounds of what the poster stated, no it does not seem stripped down. I never really consider us as advocates, we just like to live happily and go about our daily lives like anyone else would. I can't imagine experiencing bias in housing or work as was mentioned. It is mid 2009 right?

I mean I know not everywhere is like here in New Englad but come one now...I am not going to let that dissuade us from our ideas of Richmond though...we are bigger than that.

Thank you again to all that have replied thus far!

WanderVA · 06-26-2009, 10:16 AM

Hey guys~
Check out gayrva.com for info on upcoming events and general news about Richmond gay life. July 24th is that month's Fourth Friday, an event where 100-200 gay folks, there friends and family meet up at a local 'straight' bar in the early evening. This event has been going on for almost two years and usually draws a good crowd, although summer time tends to be slower.

I always wonder what people mean when they say 'active' gay scene....I have lived in several large cities on both coasts as well as in northern and eastern Europe. Not all gay men and women like the same things so I guess your opinion of the Richmond 'scene' will depend on your interests. I will say if you like sports, there is the 3 Dollar Bills social sports teams (football, kickball, etc.). If you like the arts, there is a nice arts scene here (VCU and many galleries). If you are into drag shows and the scene around that, check out Godfrey's Drag Brunch on Sundays and other events during the week.

Richmond is not San Francisco, New York or Chicago. But it can be a wonderful place for all people. It's all about that interests you and what you make of it.

And the events I mentioned above - they were started by local people who wanted to do something different. If there is something that you like that we don't have here, start it up yourselves! People are always looking for new things...

I hope things work out for you and welcome to Richmond.

WanderVA · 06-26-2009, 10:22 AM

Also, please do not get the impression that gays in VA are this oppressed class that has to fight the 'man' every day for scraps of dignity. I'm openly gay to family, friends, and co-workers and have never had an issue with housing or employment. No, we cannot legally marry in VA. I have always said that if you lead a respectable life, hold your head high, and try to be a good person, and don't wear your heart on your sleeve, people really don't care who you love. I've been back in Richmond for over 10 years now and I love living here.

Best of luck to you.

PickPatrick · 06-26-2009, 11:22 AM

WanderVa- well said indeed!

chiffonhead · 06-26-2009, 03:27 PM

I visited friends in Richmond last August and I think about it almost daily. I loved it. I thought it was full of wonderful people and wonderful things to do. I really would love to live there one day. from what I witnessed, I think you'd have a fabulous time in Richmond and find lots of things to do.