2 Henrico communities named among top-50 places to live in U.S.

Two Henrico County communities have been named to a list of the top-50 places to live in the United States by the news website Stacker.

Both Innsbrook (No. 42) and Short Pump (No. 49) made the list, which was based upon a number of factors, including the cost of living, educational level of residents, housing and quality of public schools.

The 4,800-resident Philadelphia suburb of Chesterbrook, Pennsylvania was named the top place to live in the nation. The highest-rated Virginia locality was Stone Ridge in Northern Virginia’s Loudoun County, which ranked No. 20 on the list. Another Loudoun community (Cascades) was ranked No. 33.

“We always knew that our locality was a great place to live, work, and grow, and we’re thrilled that the nation is taking notice,” said Anthony Romanello, executive director of the Henrico Economic Development Authority.

“This recognition is positive affirmation of our efforts to adapt to our changing world. We are laser-focused on the future vibrancy of our neighborhoods in order to give our residents and businesses all they need to find happiness and success.”

In April, the Henrico EDA appointed Wendy Miller as its first manager of placemaking. Her role is to ensure Henrico is reimagining and reinventing public spaces in ways that connect with a community undergoing rapid growth. According to the University of Virginia’s Weldon Cooper Center, Henrico’s population will surge by 26.4% by 2050.

“Post-pandemic, we’re seeing a huge demand for walkable neighborhoods, a vibrant outdoor scene, and a deep sense of place,” said Miller. “Premier places attract and retain premier talent, so we’re delivering on all fronts – and all at a cost of living that’s 2.5% below the national average.”

Previously known primarily as an office park with more than 500 companies and 22,000 employees, Innsbrook is reinventing itself as a mixed-use community. New to the area is Innslake Place, a multifamily unit that rests among the community’s three lakes and five miles of trails. On the horizon is the North End, a mixed-use development set to include a hotel, dining, and entertainment options.

Short Pump is known for the open-air Short Pump Town Center mall, as well as local recreational amenities like Deep Run Park and a variety of shopping and entertainment options.