Richmond (St. Clair County), Michigan Relocation Guide: Vibe, Housing, Amenities & Daily Life

By Andrew McManamonPlaces To Live In Michigan

Introduction

If you’re looking for a small Michigan community with a traditional downtown, established neighborhoods, and access to larger job centers, Richmond, Michigan might already be on your shortlist.

Located in St. Clair County near the Macomb County line, Richmond blends rural surroundings with a compact city center. Many people consider living here because it offers a quieter pace while still keeping Detroit’s northern suburbs within reach.

In this relocation guide, we’ll walk through what to realistically expect in terms of housing, cost of living, schools, property taxes, commute patterns, and everyday lifestyle.

Richmond (St. Clair County), Michigan Relocation Guide: Vibe, Housing, Amenities & Daily Life

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Where Is Richmond, Michigan Located?

Richmond is located in southwestern St. Clair County, near the border of Macomb County.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Richmond has a population of approximately 6,000 residents. The city is positioned about:

20 miles northeast of Mount Clemens
40 miles northeast of Detroit
15 miles west of Port Huron

M-19 runs directly through the city, connecting residents north toward Imlay City and south toward Macomb County. Interstate 94 is accessible within a short drive to the east, according to the Michigan Department of Transportation.

This positioning makes Richmond appealing for those who want a smaller setting while maintaining commuter access to surrounding employment centers.

Cost of Living in Richmond, Michigan

Cost of living in Richmond is generally aligned with or slightly below Michigan averages.

According to U.S. Census Bureau data, median home values in Richmond are typically lower than many Oakland and Macomb County communities. Niche.com reports housing costs as one of the more affordable aspects of the area.

BestPlaces.net indicates that Richmond’s overall cost of living index is close to or slightly below the national average.

Utilities and transportation costs generally follow statewide norms, based on Midwest regional data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

As always, actual expenses depend on the type of home, energy usage, commute distance, and individual spending patterns.

Real Estate & Housing Overview

Richmond’s housing stock consists primarily of mid-century and late-20th-century builds, with some historic homes near the downtown core.

Based on U.S. Census Bureau housing data:

Many homes were built between the 1950s and 1990s
Owner-occupied properties make up the majority of housing
Lot sizes are typically suburban, with larger parcels on the city’s outskirts

Common home styles include:

Ranch homes
Split-level homes
Two-story traditional builds
Older homes with classic architectural details near downtown

New construction activity exists but is limited compared to high-growth suburban corridors in Metro Detroit.

Local MLS data shows steady housing demand, with pricing influenced by inventory levels and overall market conditions.

Property Taxes in Richmond

Property taxes in Richmond follow Michigan’s standard millage rate system.

According to the Michigan Department of Treasury, property taxes are calculated by multiplying a property’s taxable value by the local millage rate. These rates include city, county, and school components approved by voters.

The City of Richmond publishes its current millage rates through official city documentation.

Michigan’s Proposal A limits annual taxable value increases unless ownership transfers occur, as explained by the Michigan Department of Treasury.

Because millage rates can change, buyers should verify current tax rates directly with the City of Richmond before making purchase decisions.

Things to Do & Lifestyle

Richmond’s lifestyle centers around its walkable downtown and local parks.

Beebe Street Memorial Park provides recreational facilities and open space for outdoor activities, according to the City of Richmond Parks & Recreation Department.

The downtown area includes small businesses, restaurants, and seasonal community events organized by the city.

While Richmond does not sit directly on a large lake, it is within driving distance of multiple inland lakes and the St. Clair River, as noted by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.

Residents often appreciate the quieter pace while still being able to access shopping and entertainment in nearby communities such as New Baltimore and Port Huron.

Schools & Education

Richmond is served by Richmond Community Schools.

According to GreatSchools.org, the district includes elementary, middle, and high school facilities within the area. School ratings vary by campus and are based on test scores and academic growth data.

Niche.com provides additional insights regarding district academics, extracurricular offerings, and overall school reviews.

Prospective residents are encouraged to review current ratings and district information directly through official school sources.

Pros & Cons of Living in Richmond

Pros:

Small-city atmosphere with a defined downtown (City of Richmond)
Housing costs generally below many Metro Detroit suburbs (Niche.com)
Access to M-19 and nearby I-94 (Michigan Department of Transportation)
Established residential neighborhoods (U.S. Census Bureau)
Proximity to Macomb County employment centers

Cons:

Limited large-scale retail and nightlife options
Public transportation options are minimal
New construction inventory is limited
Local job market within city limits is smaller than larger suburbs

Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Richmond, Michigan

Is Richmond, Michigan a safe place to live?

Crime data varies year to year. Niche.com and public crime databases provide updated safety comparisons with state averages.

How far is Richmond from Detroit?

Richmond is approximately 40 miles northeast of Detroit, depending on route and traffic.

What school district serves Richmond?

Richmond Community Schools serves the city, according to GreatSchools.org.

What is the population of Richmond, Michigan?

The U.S. Census Bureau reports a population of approximately 6,000 residents.

Are home prices affordable in Richmond?

Median home values are generally lower than many Metro Detroit suburbs, according to Niche.com and Census data.

What highways serve Richmond?

M-19 runs through the city, and I-94 is accessible within a short drive, per the Michigan Department of Transportation.

Is Richmond growing?

Population trends fluctuate. The U.S. Census Bureau provides the most accurate long-term growth data.

Are there parks in Richmond?

Yes. Beebe Street Memorial Park and other city-maintained parks provide recreational space, according to the City of Richmond.

Does Richmond have a downtown area?

Yes. The city maintains a traditional downtown district with small businesses and community events.

Is Richmond close to Lake St. Clair?

Lake St. Clair is accessible within a reasonable driving distance, though it is not directly within city limits.

What types of homes are common in Richmond?

Ranch-style and mid-century homes are common, based on U.S. Census Bureau housing age data.

To Conclude:

If you're looking to move to, from, or within the state of Michigan in one day or a million, I help people do just that and I love it as a Michigan Realtor. Please reach out anytime for help — I’m happy to be your go-to resource.