# Richmond Earns Top 25 National Ranking for Parks, Strengthening Quality of Life and Economic Competitiveness

Richmond has once again earned national recognition for the quality of its parks and public spaces, ranking #24 in the nation in the 2026 ParkScore® Index.

The annual ParkScore rankings evaluate the park systems of the 100 most populous U.S. cities across five key categories: acreage, access, investment, amenities, and park space equity. Richmond’s strong performance reflects years of investment in creating accessible, high-quality public spaces that serve residents across the city.

Richmond’s 2026 ParkScore results include:

* **#24 National Ranking**
* **77 points for Park Access**
* **90 points for Amenities**
* **67 points for Park Space Equity**
* **56 points for Investment**
* **37 points for Acreage**

While parks are often viewed as recreational assets, they also play a critical role in economic development. Communities with vibrant parks and public spaces are more attractive to residents, employers, entrepreneurs, and visitors. Access to quality outdoor amenities contributes to talent attraction and retention, supports neighborhood revitalization efforts, increases property values, and enhances overall quality of life.

Richmond’s extensive network of parks, trails, riverfront access points, and community gathering spaces helps distinguish the city as a place where people want to live, work, and invest. From neighborhood parks that provide daily recreation opportunities to destination assets along the James River, these spaces contribute to the city’s identity and long-term competitiveness.

The city’s high score for amenities highlights the diversity of recreational opportunities available to residents, while its strong access score demonstrates that many Richmonders live within a short distance of a park. The Park Space Equity score further reflects ongoing efforts to ensure that access to quality green space is available across neighborhoods.

As Richmond continues to grow, investments in parks, trails, and public spaces remain an important part of the city’s broader strategy to foster economic vitality, improve neighborhood quality of life, and create a more connected community.

Richmond’s continued recognition among the nation’s top park systems reinforces what residents and visitors already know: great places create thriving communities.

To learn more about the 2026 ParkScore rankings and methodology, visit the Trust for Public Land’s ParkScore website.