about virginia

Chesterfield County, Virginia nestles between the Appomattox and James rivers, in the Mid-Atlantic section of the nation.  In 2004, American City Business Journal recognized Chesterfield County as the “17^th Best Place to Live in America”.  This award-winning network of communities offers an enviable quality of life, with affordable living costs and ample housing choices. 

Chesterfield County, VA encompasses several unincorporated communities and towns that include Bellwood, Chesterfield and Midlothian.  The largest communities are Bon Air and Chester.  At the time of the 2000 Census, the population within the county included 259,903 individuals.  Estimates in 2004 reported a population surge to 282,925, nearly a nine percent increase.  Chesterfield County accounts for a portion of the Richmond-Petersburg metropolitan area.  Northern Chesterfield County encompasses the Metropolitan Richmond region known as “South Side”.

Bon Air, meaning “good air”, was initially a prestigious resort town offering a luxurious retreat from the large and overcrowded cities nearby.  This dynamic suburb of Richmond features Victorian style structures preserved from the late 19^th and early 20^th centuries.  These charming buildings are listed as a National Historic District.  In 2000, Bon Air reported a population of 16,213; however, estimates in 2005 indicated the current population as closer to 21,000 residents. 

Once a mere stop along the Richmond and Petersburg Railroad, Chester now serves as a bedroom community along busy State Route 10.  This burgeoning community (population 17,890) boasts a business-friendly atmosphere, with a centralized location that affords access to Route 10 and Jefferson Davis Highway near I-95.  Chesterfield is the county seat and center of commerce.  This dynamic town is home to 3,558 residents and to such historical sites as the Museum and Old Jail, located directly behind the 1917 courthouse.

Recreational opportunities abound in the Chesterfield County region.  Sites of interest include the Castlewood and Magnolia Grange, Eppington, Falling Creek Ironworks, Henricus Historical Park and the Midlothian Mines and Railroads.  Southside Speedway also draws its share of visitors to the area.  In addition, NASCAR driver Denny Hamlin reportedly hails from Chesterfield County.  This picturesque community operates several recreational parks such as Pocahontas State Park, while the scenic capital city, Richmond, the Atlantic Coast Beaches and the bustling city of Washington, D.C., are also within a reasonable driving distance.

Many local people live in Chesterfield County and commute to Richmond for employment.  Incomes here generally exceed the national average.  The reported median household income was $58,537, while the national average was $41,994 for annual household income.  Chesterfield County’s personal per capita income of $33,586, also exceeds the national average of $30,906.

The communities of Chesterfield County offer modern public schools as well as several private educational facilities.  Local options for higher education include John Tyler Community College and Virginia State University.  Additional facilities for higher learning exist in the greater Richmond area.  These include Strayer University, the University of Richmond and the Virginia Commonwealth University.

Chesterfield County, Virginia features a moderate climate, with four distinct seasons which display the area’s natural splendor.  Close-knit communities, safe neighborhoods and well-rounded lifestyle choices ensure Chesterfield County residents a prosperous future for generations to come.