Military Relocation to Richmond: What to Know Before You Move

As a Navy veteran's wife and mom who has moved around the Richmond and Hampton Roads areas multiple times, I know firsthand how stressful a big relocation can be — and what makes the transition smoother. Having lived in communities on both sides of the water, from Henrico to Virginia Beach, I've got deep local knowledge and a genuine understanding of what it's like to start fresh in a new place. This guide covers the basics of relocating to the Richmond metro area for military families.

Military Installations Near Richmond

Richmond and the surrounding area are home to several military installations:

• Fort Gregg-Adams (formerly Fort Lee) — Located in Prince George County, about 35 minutes southeast of Richmond. Home to the Army Logistics University and several TRADOC units.
• Defense Supply Center Richmond (DSCR) — A major Department of Defense installation in eastern Henrico, supporting military and federal supply operations.
• Naval Support Activity Hampton Roads — In the Hampton Roads area, about 75 minutes from Richmond.

Where Should You Live?

The right neighborhood depends on your assignment. If you're headed to DSCR, eastern Henrico (Varina, Sandston, East End) puts you within 10–15 minutes of the gate. For Fort Gregg-Adams, many military families choose Chesterfield, Colonial Heights, or southern Henrico for a reasonable commute.

Budget-wise, the Richmond area is more affordable than most East Coast military markets. You can find solid 3-bedroom homes in the $300K–$400K range with generous lots — a significant value compared to Virginia Beach or the Northern Virginia corridor.

Tips for Your Move

• Start early. The Richmond market moves quickly. Get pre-approved and begin your search 60–90 days before your report date.
• Consider your commute honestly. A 20-minute drive can become 40 in traffic. I'll help you map it.
• Don't skip the home inspection. Older homes in this area may have well water, septic systems, or aging components that need attention.
• Use your VA loan. It's one of the best benefits of service, and I work with VA-savvy lenders who understand the process.

Why Work with an MRP Agent?

As a Military Relocation Professional and military spouse, I understand the unique pressures of military moves — tight timelines, remote purchases, BAH calculations, and the emotional weight of starting over in a new place. Having moved homes myself around the Richmond and Hampton Roads areas and worked closely with military families throughout the community, I bring both local knowledge and genuine empathy to every client.

Whether you're PCS-ing to Richmond or heading out of Virginia, I have a network of agents across the country who can help with your next stop.