Living in Hopewell VA ❤️️ Is Hopewell VA a Good Place to Live?

Living in Hopewell VA has much to offer. From its prime location on the Appomattox River to its affordable cost of living and proximity to Richmond, you won’t regret relocating here. 

Hopewell VA is known as a historic enclave with deep roots in the Civil War. However, its manufacturing roots run just as deep, with the first automatic dishwasher, the first Kraft paper and cardboard boxes, china, and artificial silk all being prominent products of the region. It was established in 1613 as City Point and incorporated as an independent city in 1916 as Hopewell.

Is Hopewell VA a Good Place to Live? 

The city of Hopewell VA gets mixed reviews regarding the quality of life it provides. Many residents love its recent economic growth, proximity to the river, friendly community, local businesses, and the tight-knit vibes it offers. However, there are health and equality concerns as the various manufacturing plants cause some pollution. Overall, if you’d like to reside in an affordable city that still has many things to do, living in Hopewell VA is likely the right choice for you.  

What County Is Hopewell VA in?

Hopewell, Virginia, is not part of a county because it's an independent city. It sits along the scenic Appomattox River, and George County surrounds it. Its location makes it one of the top cities near Richmond for nature enthusiasts to live!

Major cities near Hopewell include: 

• Hopewell VA to Downtown Richmond VA: 21.6 miles
• Hopwell to Petersburg: 9.4 miles
• Hopewell to Chester: 9.8 miles

If you’re looking for a Richmond suburb that offers proximity to major cities but a quiet lifestyle, living in Hopewell VA is for you. 

Transportation

Although limited, you will find some public transportation options when living in Hopewell VA. 

• PAT (Petersburg Area Transit) - The Hopewell Circulator Route, provided by PAT, has multiple stops within Hopewell and also connects the city to neighboring cities, such as Petersburg and Colonial Heights, via Routes 14 and 2. 

• GRTC (Greater Richmond Transit Company) - If you plan to commute to Richmond after moving to Hopewell, you can use PAT to connect to the GRTC. You can take Route 2 from Hopewell to the Petersburg Transit Center, and from there, utilize GRTC Route 95x – Richmond/Petersburg Express, which includes key stops at 14th & Franklin, Main & 9th, 7th & Marshall, and Broad & 11th. 

You can explore more with the Hopewell bus schedule.

Hopewell VA Population 

According to the most recent US Census, there are 22,970 residents living in Hopewell VA, 53.5% of whom are females and 46.5% are males. The poverty rate here is 21.8%, significantly higher than the US average, and the median household income is $54,729, which is lower than the US median. Although the income per capita ($26,626) isn’t high, the city’s affordable living (which we discuss below) certainly offsets its low wages. 

A major pro to living in Hopewell VA is its young median age (37.5) and large adolescent population. 25% of residents are under 18, and 60% are 64 or younger. 

Additional Demographics 

• Mean travel time to work: 26.6 minutes
• Number of households: 9,418
• Moved since the previous year: 15.6%
• Educational attainment:
  • High school grad or higher: 87.7% 
  • Bachelor's degree or higher: 12.5%
• Foreign-born population: 3.6%
• Population with veteran status: 9.7%
• Median income: 31,878

What Is the Racial Makeup of Hopewell Virginia?

The racial and ethnic makeup here is diverse, with only 41.1% of people living in Hopewell VA, identifying as White (41.6% non-Hispanic or Latino). 43.6% are Black or African American, 10.8% are two or more races, and 8.9% are Hispanic or Latino. The smallest ethnic groups are Asian (1.1%) and Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander (0.1%). These racial statistics are not surprising, considering Virginia has a historically prominent African American population.

Is Hopewell VA Safe? 

Before deciding if living in Hopewell VA is the right move for you, consider its crime rate and how it compares to the state, nation, and nearby communities. Below, we analyze crime data provided by the FBI. While these figures can provide a good gauge, there are limitations, as reporting is voluntary, there are varying definitions and practices across cities, and issues related to location and context. 

For example, a small town and a big city might have similar per capita crime rates but very different crime types and frequencies. Sometimes crime is concentrated in one area, whereas the rest of the city sees less crime. 

• Hopewell VA crime rate per 100,000 people: 2,420.9
• Virginia crime rate per 100,000 people: 1,787.6
• US crime rate per 100,000 people: 2,119.2

• Hopewell violent crime rate per 100,000 people: 380.9
• Virginia violent crime rate per 100,000 people: 217.9
• US violent crime rate per 100,000 people: 359

• Hopewell property crime rate per 100,000 people: 2,040
• Virginia property crime rate per 100,000 people: 1,569.7
• US property crime rate per 100,000 people: 1,760

Although Hopewell does have a higher crime rate than its state and country, it’s still 41% lower than the Richmond VA crime rate, which is 3,962 per 100,000 people. 

Hopewell Police VA

The Hopewell Police Department has 57 officers on the streets protecting the people living in Hopewell VA. The department is highly involved in the community, participating in community initiatives that demonstrate its genuine love for the community. 

What Is the Cost of Living in Hopewell VA? 

PayScale states that Hopewell, Virginia, has a Cost of Living Index (COLI) of 87, putting its cost of living 13% below the national average. The main attribute of its affordability is its housing, as it is 42% more affordable. 

Typical *Hopewell living expenses: 

• Inexpensive restaurant meal: $23.00
• Gallon of milk: $4.09
• Loaf of white bread: $3.68
• Pound of white rice: $1.71
• Pound of local cheese: $4.42
• Average utilities per month: $208.93

Source: Numbeo

*The above statistics are for Richmond, meaning prices may differ when living in Hopewell VA. 

A major cost factor to consider is taxes. Luckily, Virginia has some of the lowest sales tax rates in the country and the 19th-lowest property tax rate. 

• Hopewell, VA sales tax rate on meals: 6%
• Hopewell, VA sales tax rate on lodging: 10%
• Hopewell, Virginia, property tax rate: $1.17 per $100 of assessed value

Hopewell, VA, cost of living compared to nearby cities: 

• Richmond VA Cost of Living Index: 95
• Petersburg VA Cost of Living Index: 86

Hopewell VA Real Estate Overview - Houses for Sale, Top Real Estate Agents, Rentals, & More

Buying a house in Virginia is exciting, whether it's in Hopewell or not. However, living in Hopewell VA will prove very affordable! According to RedFin, the median price for a house in Hopewell is $240,000, which is well below the US median of $419,200 and the state median of $465,000. The average price per square foot here is $179, a 14% increase since last year. Homes for sale in Hopewell VA typically sell within 76 days, with 34.8% going above their listing price. 

With more than 34 homes for rent on RedFin alone and a rental population of more than 10,000, renting here is a very popular living option. The average rent in Hopewell is $1,295 for a 906-square-foot rental. 

Best Neighborhoods in Hopewell VA

Whether you’re seeking renovated century-old homes with a quaint historic vibe or affordable rental options that are fit for the whole family, you’re in the right place. We know all about living in Hopewell VA, and what type of neighborhoods it offers. Let’s explore the top apartment complexes and neighborhoods that are perfect for a growing family. 

Top Apartments 

If you plan to rent when living in Hopewell VA, consider these well-reviewed apartment options. 

• Commodore - Top Hopewell neighborhood providing affordable rental options, starting at $1,560 a month. 
• Canterbury Townhouses - Quaint townhomes in Hopewell with one and two-bedroom options. 

Cedar Level - Family-Friendly 

Cedar Level, known for its highway accessibility and family-friendly atmosphere, is a great place to call home. It’s near Harry E. James Elementary and Riverside Park, which parents of young children find highly convenient. Anyone commuting to work can easily hop on the 295 for access to Richmond and Petersburg. 

Weather Hopewell VA - Climate, Average Temperatures, & More

The weather in Hopewell VA is enjoyable most of the year, with a few very humid months in the summer and a relatively cold January. With a humid subtropical climate (like Richmond’s climate) (Cfa Koppen climate classification), living in Hopewell VA provides hot summers and cold winters that are short-lived (3 months). 

Temperatures here range from 30°F to 90°F, with July being the warmest month and January the coldest. You can expect the most rain in August, with a 43% chance of precipitation on any given day, and the most snow in January, with an average of 3.9 inches. 

The best time to visit Hopewell to experience summer fun is from mid-May to mid-June. If you’d like to witness the leaves changing, come anytime from mid-August to mid-October.

Things to Do in Hopewell VA

Living in Hopewell VA provides access to tons of fun activities, including historical tours, 220 acres of park space, and aquatic activities galore, thanks to its positioning off the Appomattox River. Here are the best things to do in Hopewell Virginia, after moving here. 

Beacon Theatre

The restored Beacon Theater is an event venue where you can catch various shows and concerts. It hosts opera singers, country artists, and every music genre in between, making it one of the top activities around. 

401 N Main St, Hopewell, VA 23860, (804) 446-3457

Weston Plantation

This riverfront manor home is part of the Historic Hopewell Foundation. You can explore the groups, visit the gift shop, enjoy the views, go bird-watching, and much more here. Its purpose is to showcase Hopewell’s unique history while providing a fun activity fit for the whole family. 

400 Weston Ln, Hopewell, VA 23860, (804) 458-4682

Hopewell City Marina

Whether you have a boat or plan to fish from the pier, the marina is the place to be. Often referred to as the Hopewell Launch, this is a great place to enjoy Virginia’s natural beauty. 

1051 Riverside Ave, Hopewell, VA 23860, (804) 541-6417

Additional Activities in Hopewell VA

• Hopewell City Park - Waterfront boardwalk
• Riverside Park - Ideal for kids
• Hopewell Community Center - 38,000-square-foot recreation center with a heated pool
• Hopewell River Walk - 1,736-foot waterfront wooden boardwalk

The Parks and Recreation Department in Hopewell is dedicated to keeping its community manicured and healthy. There are special events you can attend to connect with new neighbors, as well as ample fitness classes to consider. 

Top Restaurants in Hopewell VA

The Boathouse at City Point

The Boathouse is situated on the Appomattox River and serves delicious dishes, including shrimp and grits, crab cake sandwiches, bread pudding, mimosas, and more! 

701 W Randolph Rd, Hopewell, VA 23860, (804) 616-4222

K & L Barbecue

If you’re craving old-school BBQ, check out K & L! They have everything from pulled pork sandwiches, chicken and dumplings, peach cobbler, and fried chicken. 

1410 Cavalier Square, Hopewell, VA 23860, (804) 458-4241

Rosa's Italian Ristorante Pizzeria

For authentic Italian cuisine, visit Rosa’s, one of the best restaurants in Hopewell VA. There is a robust salad buffet, delicious pizza pies, and pasta dishes galore here. 

4098 Oaklawn Blvd, Hopewell, VA 23860, (804) 458-8744

Jobs in Hopewell VA - Average Commute, Major Employers, Etc.

Although Hopewell jobs are abundant, looking in the city’s leading industries—healthcare and social assistance, manufacturing, and retail trade is key. Notable manufacturing companies the city hosts include AdvanSix, WestRock, Wonder City, and Evonik; according to Data USA, healthcare and social assistance employ 1,595 people living in Hopewell VA.  

The unemployment rate here is 4.6%, yet the city works tirelessly to revitalize its economy through incentives such as reutilizing aging infrastructure, zoning 2,082 acres for commercial, industrial, retail, and office development, and planning to create a new look for the city’s downtown area!

There are other major employers, where you may consider sending your resume. One great thing about living in Hopewell VA is its proximity to Greater Richmond and its eight Fortune 500 companies and thousands of other employers. 

• Fort Gregg-Adams - 23,000 employees
• Dominion Resources - 5,400 employees
• Amazon - 1,000+ employees 

Companies like Excel Truck Group and Amazon frequently try to fill warehouse positions. If you work in the public sector, your options are endless: 

• City of Hopewell VA jobs
• Hopewell Police Department jobs​
• Hopewell Fire Department jobs​
• Hopewell school jobs

Hopewell VA Schools

​​Hopewell City Public Schools serves K-12 grade public school students living in Hopewell VA; uniquely, HCPS also provides preschool options for the community’s youngest residents! There are 3,984 students in the district with a 13:1 student-to-teacher ratio (Virginia’s is 14:1).

You will find six schools in the district: 

• Patrick Copeland Elementary
• Harry E. James Elementary
• Dupont Elementary
• Carter G. Woodson Middle School
• Hopewell High School
• Woodlawn Learning Center - Early learning center

The best way to determine which school your child will be zoned for is to contact the school district at (804) 541-6408. 

For any additional educational assistance, visit the Appomattox Regional Library- Hopewell Branch. From its unique incentives, such as the 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten program, to summer reading programs that help develop children's love for literature, it’s an excellent place for people of all ages. Its event calendar is packed with career workshops and many other programs that pour back into the community.

Higher Education

If you plan on advancing your career when living in Hopewell VA, there are a handful of two and four-year colleges to consider. 

• Virginia State University (VSU) - Located in Ettrick
• Brightpoint Community College - Campuses in Chester & Midlothian
• University of Richmond - Located in Richmond 

Hopewell Statistics & Information

• Hopewell county: United States - Independent city
• Hopewell area: 10.83 square feet
• Hopewell zip code: 23860
• Hopewell area code: 804
• Hopewell time zone: Eastern Time Zone (UTC-4 and -5)
• Hopewell elevation: 50 feet
• Closest airport to Hopewell: 18 miles to Richmond International Airport

Hopewell VA Map

Explore more to do when living in Hopewell VA with this map of Hopewell!

Frequently Asked Questions

What's It Like to Live In Hopewell, VA?

Living in Hopewell VA means having a mix of suburban atmosphere, affordable housing, and easy access to urban amenities through Richmond. Residents of Hopewell enjoy the outdoor activities along the James River and in the parks around Hopewell. Hopewell residents find happiness in the slow-paced lifestyle, perfect for people searching for a quiet lifestyle with access to urban amenities.

How Far Is VA Beach From Hopewell?

Hopewell, VA is 70 miles from Virginia Beach. That means it's a 1.5-hour drive through the I-64 E. While it is not within walking distance, it does provide easy access for Hopewell residents from their relaxed life at home.

Is Hopewell, VA a Rural Area?

Hopewell VA is a small city. It is not a rural area. While Hopewell does create a rural-town atmosphere, it is accessible to urban amenities in major cities. The area blends residential and industrial spaces, providing both a suburban lifestyle and close access to urban amenities.

What River Runs Through Hopewell, Virginia?

The James River runs through Hopewell, Virginia. This makes scenic views and recreational opportunities, like boating and fishing, easily accessible. The James River is important to Hopewell’s history, as it contributed to the city’s development.

What Is Hopewell, VA Close to?

Hopewell, VA is close to several key locations, including the city of Richmond (22 miles west), Petersburg (8 miles south), and Colonial Heights (12 miles southwest). This central location offers residents access to urban amenities, shopping, dining, and employment opportunities, all within a short drive.

Moving to Hopewell With On The Fly Moving Guys

As you can see, living in Hopewell VA is great. It’s near the James and Appomattox Rivers; the median price of homes is affordable; and the community’s strategic location makes it a great place for commuters to reside. 

If you want access to beautifully restored homes and diverse eateries, let On The Fly Moving Guys and our dedicated Hopewell VA movers relocate you here! Call us today at (804) 836-4954 for a free estimate.