If you are planning to buy a home in 2026, Central Virginia should be at the top of your list—and for good reason. Henrico County and Chesterfield County continue to lead the region in job growth, housing options, lifestyle amenities, and long-term value. From walkable suburbs near Short Pump to established neighborhoods in Midlothian and Bon Air, today’s buyers have more choices than ever.

At The Wilson Group, we work daily with homebuyers, homesellers, landlords, and REALTORS® across Richmond, Virginia and the surrounding counties. This guide ranks Henrico and Chesterfield neighborhoods that are positioned to shine in 2026, while also helping you understand why these areas matter for smart buying, selling, and investing decisions.

How We Ranked These Neighborhoods for 2026

Before diving into the rankings, it helps to understand the criteria. These neighborhoods were evaluated based on:

• Buyer demand trends in Central Virginia real estate

• School reputation and long-term stability

• Access to employment centers and major roadways

• Lifestyle appeal (shopping, dining, parks, and culture)

• Rental demand and investor interest

• Appreciation potential through 2026 and beyond

This is not just a “what’s hot now” list—it is a forward-looking snapshot for homebuyers, sellers, and landlords planning ahead.

Top Henrico County Neighborhoods for 2026 Homebuyers

Henrico County remains one of the most competitive real estate markets in the Richmond metro area. Its blend of suburban convenience and urban access keeps buyer demand strong year after year.

Short Pump & West Broad Village

Short Pump continues to dominate buyer wish lists. With proximity to major employers, upscale shopping, dining, and quick access to I-64, it checks nearly every box.

Buyers love the newer construction options, while sellers benefit from strong resale values. For investors, rentals in this area attract high-quality tenants and consistent demand.

Glen Allen & Twin Hickory

Glen Allen remains a standout for buyers seeking top-rated schools and established neighborhoods. Twin Hickory, in particular, appeals to move-up buyers and families planning long-term stays.

From a homebuyer education standpoint, this area demonstrates how school districts and community planning directly influence home value over time—an important lesson for first-time buyers.

Lakeside & Eastern Henrico (Rising Value Pick)

Lakeside and nearby Eastern Henrico neighborhoods are gaining attention as affordability tightens elsewhere. Buyers who want character, older homes, and proximity to downtown Richmond are increasingly looking here.

For homesellers, this is a prime “before the peak” moment. For landlords, rental demand remains strong due to location and price accessibility.

Best Chesterfield County Neighborhoods to Watch

Chesterfield County continues to attract buyers who want space, newer homes, and strong community infrastructure—all while staying close to Richmond.

Midlothian & Brandermill

Midlothian remains one of the most balanced markets in Central Virginia real estate. Brandermill, with its trails, lakes, and community amenities, continues to perform exceptionally well for resale and rentals.

This area is especially appealing for buyers transitioning from the city who still want lifestyle amenities without sacrificing convenience.

Bon Air

Bon Air bridges the gap between Chesterfield and the City of Richmond. Its proximity to the Museum District, Manchester, and downtown makes it a favorite for buyers who want charm and location.

Homes here tend to move quickly, making pricing strategy critical for sellers. For buyers, understanding neighborhood-level comps is essential.

Chester & Route 10 Corridor (Investor-Friendly)

The Route 10 corridor and Chester area continue to draw attention from landlords and investors. These neighborhoods offer more attainable pricing and steady rental demand from commuters.

From a property management perspective, this area highlights the importance of tenant screening, local rent analysis, and proactive maintenance planning.

What 2026 Buyers Need to Know Before Choosing a Neighborhood

Homebuyer education is more important than ever. In competitive Henrico and Chesterfield markets, buyers should:

• Understand school boundaries and future rezoning plans

• Review HOA regulations and long-term costs

• Compare resale history, not just list prices

• Factor commute patterns and road expansions

Working with a local real estate expert who understands hyperlocal trends can prevent costly mistakes and missed opportunities.

Guidance for Homesellers: Timing Matters in Central Virginia

If you are thinking about selling in Henrico or Chesterfield County, 2026 could be an ideal window—if you plan correctly.

Sellers in high-demand neighborhoods like Short Pump, Midlothian, and Glen Allen benefit most from:

• Strategic pre-listing preparation

• Pricing aligned with neighborhood micro-trends

• Professional marketing that highlights lifestyle, not just features

Understanding how buyers search for homes online—especially for Richmond VA real estate keywords—can significantly impact visibility and final sale price.

Property Management Insights for Central VA Landlords

Rental demand across Henrico and Chesterfield remains strong, particularly in neighborhoods near employment centers and retail hubs.

Key property management tips for 2026 include:

• Adjusting rents based on hyperlocal data, not county-wide averages

• Prioritizing preventative maintenance in older homes

• Staying current with Virginia landlord-tenant regulations

Neighborhoods like Lakeside, Chester, and parts of Midlothian continue to offer excellent rental performance when managed correctly.

Why REALTORS® Are Choosing The Wilson Group in 2026

Beyond buyers and sellers, these neighborhood trends matter for real estate professionals as well. Agents who understand Henrico and Chesterfield at a granular level are better positioned for growth.

At The Wilson Group, we support REALTORS® with:

• Hyperlocal market intelligence

• Proven marketing systems

• Mentorship and recruiting opportunities

• Scalable business models across Central Virginia

If you are an agent looking to grow your business in Richmond VA real estate, aligning with a brokerage that leads locally makes all the difference.

Visit The Wilson Group careers page to know more.

The Bottom Line on Henrico & Chesterfield Neighborhoods

Henrico County and Chesterfield County are not just strong markets today—they are positioned for sustained success through 2026 and beyond. Whether you are buying your first home, selling a longtime property, managing rentals, or building a real estate career, understanding neighborhood-level trends is the key to making confident decisions.

The Wilson Group is deeply rooted in Richmond, Virginia and Central Virginia real estate. We live here, work here, and guide clients here every day.

If you are ready to explore the best neighborhoods for your goals—or want expert guidance tailored to your situation—connect with The Wilson Group and experience what hyperlocal expertise really looks like.