North Chesterfield, VA 55+ Active Adult Retirement Communities

Affordability and Cost of Living 

North Chesterfield is a relatively affordable place to live compared to many other retirement destinations. The cost of living in the area is slightly lower than the national average, with housing being the most significant expense. The median home price in North Chesterfield is around $327,700, which is slightly lower than the national average. Groceries, utilities, and healthcare are in line with national averages but transportation is less expensive than either state or national average.

Chesterfield County property taxes are about 0.83 percent of assessed fair market value, which is higher than the statewide average of 0.74 percent. There are also programs that provide assistance with property taxes for seniors. The income tax rate in Virginia ranges from 2 to 5.75 percent, Social Security is not taxed, and seniors can deduct up to $12,000 per person from other retirement income. With a combined state and local sales tax of 5.75 percent, Virginia's sales tax is fairly low. The state of Virginia no longer has an inheritance or estate tax, although estates over $20,000 are subject to a probate tax.

Climate and Geography 

Summer temperatures in North Chesterfield typically range from the mid-80s to mid-90s, with high humidity levels. Winters are mild, with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing. The area receives an average of 45 inches of rain per year, with occasional snowfall during the winter months. Spring and fall are the most pleasant seasons, with mild temperatures and lower humidity levels. 

 North Chesterfield is in the central region of Virginia, with a diverse landscape that includes rolling hills, forests, and rivers. The James River, which runs through the region, provides opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and other water-based activities. The surrounding forests and hills offer miles of hiking and biking trails, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. One of the unusual features of the area is that it is directly in the path of monarch butterfly migrations making it a great spot for those who want to watch butterflies in the fall.

Recreation, Shopping, and Entertainment 

North Chesterfield offers a variety of activities and events for visitors and residents to enjoy, whether it's staying active, learning something new, or simply relaxing and enjoying the beautiful surroundings.

Golf and racquet sports

• The First Tee Chesterfield Golf Course
• Belmont Golf Course
• Stonehenge Golf & Country Club

Hiking, biking and boating

• Pocahontas State Park
• Dutch Gap Conservation Area
• James River Park System

Museums and historical sites

• Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
• Richmond National Battlefield Park
• Virginia State Capitol

Performing arts

• Richmond Symphony Orchestra
• Virginia Repertory Theatre
• Altria Theater

Shopping

• Stony Point Fashion Park
• Chesterfield Towne Center
• Short Pump Town Center

Parks and gardens

• Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden
• Maymont Park
• Bryan Park

Festivals and fairs

• Virginia State Fair
• Richmond Folk Festival
• Chesterfield County Fair

Health and Wellness 

North Chesterfield offers a wealth of health and wellness options for 55+ active adults. The area is home to some of the best medical centers in the state, including the HCA Virginia Health System and the Bon Secours Richmond Health System. The VCU Medical Center, a renowned research and teaching hospital, is also located a short drive away, providing access to cutting-edge medical care.

In addition to these medical facilities, North Chesterfield also boasts several local options for self-care and keeping fit. The area has several fitness centers which offer state-of-the-art equipment and personalized training programs. The nearby Pocahontas State Park and the Dutch Gap Conservation Area is a great place to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and kayaking. For those interested in mental wellness, the area has several meditation centers and yoga studios which offer classes and workshops to help individuals manage stress and improve overall well-being.

Recommended Itinerary for Visiting Area 55+ Communities

North Chesterfield is a great place to consider for retirement, with its beautiful neighborhoods, thriving community, and excellent amenities. As a visitor looking to retire in the area, you will have plenty of opportunities to explore the best of what the area has to offer.

Day One

Morning:

• Start your day with breakfast at the Ironclad Coffee Roasters, a cozy coffee shop known for its artisanal coffee blends and pastries.
• After breakfast, head to the Pocahontas State Park, a beautiful park with over 7,000 acres of forests, lakes, and trails. Take a hike, rent a kayak, or just enjoy the fresh air and beautiful scenery.
• For lunch, grab a sandwich or salad at the nearby Dixie Restaurant, a local favorite for its classic American fare.

Afternoon:

• Spend the afternoon exploring the local shopping scene, starting with the Chesterfield Towne Center, a large shopping mall with over 100 stores.
• Next, head to the James River Park System, a series of parks and trails along the James River, offering hiking, biking, and boating opportunities.

Evening:

• For dinner, go to the Boathouse at Sunday Park, a beautiful waterfront restaurant with great food and stunning views of the Swift Creek Reservoir.
• After dinner try out some of the local craft beers at Steam Bell Beer Works.

Day Two

Morning:

• Start your morning with breakfast at the Shorty's Diner, a cozy breakfast spot with delicious pancakes, waffles, and omelets.
• Meet with your local 55places expert retirement community partner agent to discuss your retirement options and tour the local 55+ communities.

Afternoon:

• For lunch, grab a sandwich or salad at the nearby Perly's Deli & Restaurant, known for its Jewish deli fare and famous "Drunken Sailor" sandwich.
• After lunch, head to the Dutch Gap Conservation Area, a beautiful wildlife reserve with hiking trails and bird-watching opportunities.

Evening:

• End your trip with a nice dinner at Dolce Vita, a popular Italian restaurant with great food and a warm ambiance.

Getting to North Chesterfield

North Chesterfield  is easily reached by flying, driving or by train and bus. Here are directions for each:  

By Air

The nearest major airport is Richmond International Airport (RIC), located about 19 miles northeast of North Chesterfield. The airport is served by several major airlines, including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and Southwest Airlines. The primary hubs for these airlines include Charlotte, Atlanta, Newark, and Baltimore.

By Car

• If you are driving from the north, take I-95 South and exit at 67B to merge onto VA-150 S/Chippenham Pkwy towards US-60 W/Midlothian Turnpike.
• If you are driving from the south, take I-95 North and exit at 67A to merge onto VA-150 S/Chippenham Pkwy towards US-60 W/Midlothian Turnpike.
• If you are driving from the west, take VA-288 South and exit at US-60 W/Midlothian Turnpike.

By Train:

The closest Amtrak station is the Richmond Staples Mill Road Station, located about 12 miles north of North Chesterfield. Amtrak offers daily service to Richmond from cities along the Northeast Corridor, including Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, and New York.

By Bus:

Greyhound Bus Lines operates a bus station in Richmond, located about 13 miles north of North Chesterfield. Greyhound offers daily service to Richmond from cities throughout the East Coast and Midwest.