Carytown

Richmond, VA

Neighborhood Market Analysis

Q3 2025 Report
$550,000[4]
Median Home Price
Excellent (Walk Score ~90)
Walkability Score
Public schools rated B+ overall; Fox Elementary is highly regarded for academics and community involvement.[2]
School Rating

Location Overview

Neighborhood Boundaries

Centered around West Cary Street, generally bounded by Thompson Street to the west, the Boulevard (Arthur Ashe Blvd) to the east, Ellwood Ave to the north, and South Belmont Ave to the south.

Zip Codes

23221

Market Data Summary

Price Range$400,000 to $800,000+ for single-family homes and townhomes[4]
Price per Sq FtApproximately $350–$400 (varies by property type and condition)
Inventory LevelsLow to moderate; most listings receive significant interest within the first week.

Property Characteristics

Home Types & Architecture

Home Types

Historic rowhousesSingle-family detached homesTownhomesCondominiumsApartments

Architectural Styles

Early 20th-century brick rowhousesCraftsmanColonial RevivalContemporary infill

Property Details

Typical Lot SizesSmall urban lots, typically 0.05–0.15 acres
Home Age Range1900s–1930s for historic homes; some new construction and renovated properties from 2000s–2020s
Construction QualityGenerally high, with many homes renovated to modern standards while retaining historic character.

Community Profile

Demographics & Lifestyle

Demographics

Population ~1,281; upper-middle income, higher than 64% of US neighborhoods. 0% of children live below the poverty line, indicating strong economic stability.[1][2]

Community Vibe

Eclectic, vibrant, and urban. Known for diversity, creativity, and a strong sense of local pride. Popular with young professionals, creatives, and families.

Typical Residents

  • Young professionals
  • Families with children
  • Retirees
  • Students
  • Creative professionals

Family Friendly

Good for families; walkable, safe, and near parks and amenities. 35% owner-occupied, 65% renter-occupied.[2]

Amenities & Lifestyle

Parks & Recreation

  • Carytown Park
  • Nearby Byrd Park
  • Maymont Park

Dining Options

  • Can Can Brasserie
  • The Daily Kitchen & Bar
  • Galaxy Diner
  • C Street
  • French and Vietnamese bistros

Shopping Centers

  • Cary Court Shopping Center
  • Boutiques along Cary Street

Local Businesses

  • Byrd Theatre
  • World of Mirth
  • Plan 9 Music
  • Mongrel
  • Chop Suey Books

Education & Schools

Public schools rated B+ overall; Fox Elementary is highly regarded for academics and community involvement.[2]
Overall School Rating

Elementary Schools

  • Fox Elementary

Middle Schools

  • Binford Middle School

High Schools

  • Thomas Jefferson High School

Private Schools

  • St. Benedict Catholic School
  • Sabot at Stony Point

Transportation & Accessibility

Transit & Roads

Public Transit

  • GRTC bus lines along Cary Street and Boulevard

Major Roads

  • West Cary Street
  • Boulevard (Arthur Ashe Blvd)
  • Interstate 195

Commute & Walkability

Commute Times10–15 minutes to downtown Richmond; 20–25 minutes to Short Pump or Midlothian.
WalkabilityHighly walkable; most errands and entertainment accessible on foot.
ParkingStreet parking can be limited, especially during weekends and events.

Marketing Intelligence

Target Buyer Types

  • Young professionals
  • Investors
  • Urban families
  • Empty nesters seeking walkability

Key Selling Points

  • Prime walkable location
  • Eclectic dining and shopping
  • Historic architecture with modern updates
  • Strong rental market

Pricing Considerations

Homes priced competitively within the $500k–$700k range sell fastest; premium for renovated historic properties.

Common Objections & Response Strategies

Objection: Limited parking availability

Response Strategy:

Highlight walkability, bike-friendliness, and access to public transit; suggest nearby parking options or residential permits.

Objection: Higher price per square foot than other neighborhoods

Response Strategy:

Emphasize unique lifestyle, amenities, and strong appreciation potential.

Objection: Potential for noise from nightlife and events

Response Strategy:

Point out double-pane windows, quieter side streets, and vibrant community atmosphere.

Investment Insights

Investment Potential

Appreciation Potential

Strong; consistent price growth and high demand for both rentals and owner-occupied homes.[4]

Rental Demand

Very high due to proximity to VCU, downtown, and amenities. 65% of residents rent.[2]

Buyer Competition

Intense; multiple offers common for well-priced homes.

Best For

  • Young professionals
  • Investors seeking rental income
  • Families valuing walkability and amenities

Potential Concerns

  • Limited parking
  • Higher price per square foot than some nearby neighborhoods
  • Occasional noise from nightlife and events

Professional Recommendations

1

Educate buyers on fast-paced market and need for quick, strong offers.

2

Highlight unique lifestyle and walkability in all marketing.

3

Network with local businesses for cross-promotions and community events.

4

Stage homes to showcase historic charm and modern updates.

5

Prepare sellers for multiple-offer scenarios and strategic pricing.

6

Advise investors on rental demand and property management resources.

Competitive Analysis

Comparable Markets

  • The Fan
  • Museum District
  • Church Hill

Market Positioning

Premium urban neighborhood with strong lifestyle appeal and investment stability.

Competitive Advantages

  • Superior walkability
  • Unique retail and dining scene
  • Historic character with modern amenities

Price Comparison

Priced higher than Museum District and Church Hill, but below some parts of The Fan.

Investment Metrics

3.5%–4.5% for well-maintained rental properties (2025 estimates)
Cap Rates
Gross yields 5%–6% for condos and small multifamily; lower for single-family homes.
Rental Yields
Approximately 22–25, reflecting premium urban demand.
Price-to-Rent
Positive for well-managed rentals, especially smaller units and condos.
Cash Flow
4–6% annual appreciation projected through 2026.
Appreciation

Buyer Journey Insights

First-Time Buyers

Should be prepared for competitive offers and limited inventory; focus on condos or smaller rowhouses for entry-level pricing.

Move-Up Buyers

Can find larger historic homes or renovated properties with premium finishes; expect to pay above city median.

Downsizers

Attracted to walkable lifestyle and low-maintenance condos; limited single-level options.

Investors

Strong rental demand and appreciation; focus on smaller multifamily or condos for best returns.

Relocators

Appealing for those seeking urban amenities and vibrant culture; may need to adjust expectations on parking and lot size.

This neighborhood analysis was generated using hyperlocal data and AI intelligence.

Neighborhood conditions change - consult with local real estate professionals for the most current information.

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