2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Chester, VA vs Ashland, VA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Ashland older or younger than people in Chester?
- The Median Age in Ashland is 7.9 years younger than in Chester.

Are housing costs cheaper in Ashland or Chester?
- Ashland housing costs are 9.6% more expensive than Chester housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Ashland or Chester?
- The average commute for residents of Ashland is 3.7 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Chester.

Things to do in Chester?
Chester is an historic city located on the south bank of the James River near Richmond, Virginia. It has a rich history spanning centuries that includes both the Civil War and Revolutionary War eras. The city offers all sorts of attractions such as parks and museums where visitors can learn about its past or take part in outdoor recreation opportunities. There are also many delicious restaurants to enjoy while visiting Chester.

Things to do in Ashland?
Living in Ashland, VA is a wonderful experience. The small town has a cozy and friendly atmosphere that makes it a great place to call home. The town boasts plenty of parks and trails for outdoor recreation, and the downtown area offers shopping and dining options for all tastes. With easy access to Richmond or Washington D.C., you can easily explore the surrounding areas with ease. Ashland is also home to many festivals, concerts, and events throughout the year which can make living here even more enjoyable. All in all, Ashland is an ideal place to live that offers something for everyone!

 Chester, VAAshland, VAUnited States
 Population  Unlock7,478329,725,481
 Median Income$78,673  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock30.538.4
 Avg. Home Price$331,300  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock3.9%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time23.99  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Chester    6 Reviews

I just recently discovered a little suburb of Richmond, called Chester. Yes, it is small and not much going on in that area - but if you want a peaceful area to live -  More

   |    Reply

I grew up in Chester and it really isn't a bad place to live if you like living in a very populated area. It has great schools, low crime, easy access to both Richmond  More

   |    Reply

Chester, because of its location midway between Richmond, VA and Petersburg, VA, was once just a train station. With residential growth in affluent Chesterfield County  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Chester

Reviews for Ashland    3 Reviews

Over 13 years ago

Ashland Is by far the best place to live without Living In the city of richmond yes the housing is more but its safer and has THE BEST SCHOOL IN VA. My brother loves his  More

   |    Reply

Where to begin: With a kid in college in this town I have access to all the good and bad opinions. Have you ever heard of Homemades By Suzanne? Great Deli for eat in  More

   |    Reply

Ashland is built around an excellent small liberal arts college, Randolph-Macon College. The school enjoys a great reputation with both Richmond and D.C. offering  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Ashland


Premium Subscription
Includes Cost of Living compares for child care, utilities, transportation, health, taxes, housing for home owners vs renters, weather, insurance premiums and so much more.


The premier source for comprehensive city data for over 30 years.

© Best Places. All rights reserved.