Richland, one of the Tri-Cities along with Pasco and Kennewick, used to be a small farming village. That was until 1942, when the U.S. government selected it for the Manhattan Project. The area was ideal for uranium and plutonium production — thus, atomic weapon manufacturing — because of its discreet location in Eastern Washington and its access to Columbia River water. Within a year, the government had claimed the 250-person village under eminent domain, and a Spokane architect had planned a 16,000-person city. That city, Richland, would be about 30 miles south of the new Hanford Engineer Works, where the radioactive materials would be processed. That city came to be known as “The Atom Bustin’ Village of the West" and produced about two-thirds of the country’s plutonium from 1943 to 1988.
Though the Hanford Site has been decommissioned and isn't harmful to residents, Richland’s atomic legacy is still present. The site’s waste removal project employs roughly 13,000 people, and other scientific industries have come to the area. On the city’s north side, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory specializes in chemistry, biology, Earth sciences and data science; Kadlec Regional Medical Center, central in Richland, has an award-winning cardiac care program and an all-digital outpatient imaging center. Atlas Argo plans to operate a new carbon-neutral fertilizer factory by 2027, too, and the city of 65,000 continues to grow. “A lot of people left town in the ‘80s when Hanford closed, but we’re not a one-trick pony anymore,” says Cari McGee with RE/MAX Northwest, a real estate broker since 2004. “It’s such a great community that gets under your skin. We have a fair amount of people that come in and out. Sometimes people stay a couple of years, but they might come back to retire.”
The Manhattan project will take you to view the historic nuclear site nearby.
Richland offers quick access to the Columbia river for locals to enjoy.
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The ABCs of Richland’s housing market
Gustav Albin Pehrson, the Spokane architect who designed the city, drew up blueprints for duplex, single-story and two-story homes, and each layout got a different letter. These “alphabet homes” were built by the U.S. government in the ‘40s, and they’re a Richland signature today. They’re still central in the city, but many of them have been renovated. The Gold Coast Historic District is a subsection of this area, named for its larger homes on the Columbia River. As the city expanded through the 1960s and onward, developers built mostly on the northern and southern sides of town. South Richland has especially new construction from the 2020s, and their top end is about $1.5 million. The median sale price for the city overall is about $475,000, about $50,000 higher than neighboring Kennewick.
There are many new construction communities being planned in Richland.
Alphabet homes are left over from an influx of workers at Hanford.
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Yakima and Columbia rivers, surrounding hills
On the city’s west side, the Yakima River flows in from the Cascade Mountains, and on the east side, the Columbia River comes all the way down from British Columbia, Canada. The latter is about double the width of the Yakima, so it has most of the area’s waterfront parks. Along the 8-mile Riverfront Trail, Columbia Point Golf Course has 18 holes of rolling fairways, and Leslie Groves Park has beach volleyball. The Richland Yacht Club and boat ramp cater to those looking to explore the small islands along the river. Among the many hills around the city, Badger and Candy mountains are to the south, and their hiking trails have views of the basin below.
Locals enjoy running along the trails with views of the Columbia river.
Richland features several parks that sits next to the river.
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High state rankings for Richland School District
Built alongside the rest of the city in 1944, Richland School District serves about 14,000 students across its 18 campuses. Niche gives it an A and ranks it in the top 15 best school districts in Washington, ahead of roughly 220 others. Hartford High receives an A on the city’s north side, and Niche considers it the best public high school in Benton County. Washington State University Tri-Cities is also in this area with 20 undergraduate and 33 graduate programs.
Richland offers several public schools nearby.
Richland features one of the WSU satellite campuses.
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Uptown Shopping Center and The Richland Parkway
Uptown Shopping Center was one of the first car-oriented malls in America, built in 1949. Today its neon signs and brick storefronts stand as atomic age artifacts, and the district is walkable. Small businesses have come and gone over the years, but Tahitian food, laser tag and bike rentals are now connected by wide sidewalks. Colorful murals depict atoms and rocket ships, and with a red, towering sign, Uptown Theatre is both a local landmark and a concert venue. The Queensgate area, toward South Richland, has chain restaurants and big box stores such as Walmart, Target and Costco. “It’s the only Costco for miles and miles around, so that’s a huge draw,” McGee says. “Normally they don’t build two stores in a city of this size, but we’re actually getting another one in August 2025.”
Richland offers several commercial shopping hubs nearby.
The Uptown shopping center is a local favorite in downtown Richland.
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Tri-City events: Richland Farmers Market, July Fourth and others
The Richland Farmers Market, one of six markets in the region, is central in the city on Thursdays from June to October. Pasco Grand Old 4th of July Celebration has everything from pancakes to parades, and Kennewick’s River of Fire fireworks color the sky above the Columbia River. The Tri-City Water Follies — what locals call “the hydroplane races” — are along this river in late July. About 50,000 people come to watch the plane-boat hybrids, and vendors line the riverbank.
Downtown Richland is nestled within lots of outdoor amenities nearby.
Richland is full of residential suburbs and new developments.
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Sunny days and high winds in the Columbia Basin, crime levels
Unlike the rainy, cloudy climate of Western Washington, Richland has about 300 sunny days per year. This semi-arid, basinal desert has summers that can go above 100 degrees and winters that rarely drop below 25. In fall and spring, heavy gusts power the area’s wind farms but frequently lead to property damage. A November 2022 storm reached gusts above 60 miles per hour, leading to abundant treefalls, power outages and even flipped trailers.
In 2023, Richland had a monthly crime rate average slightly higher than the state average and slightly lower than the national one. The rate for property offenses was significantly lower than state levels, but significantly higher than national numbers.
Agriculture is a large part of the Richland economy.
Richland is surrounded by miles of farmland.
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Interstate 182 and other routes around the Tri-Cities
Interstate 182 is the main thoroughfare through Richland and the Tri-Cities region. It goes about 10 miles east to Pasco and, connecting to I-82, about 10 miles west to Benton City. It also links with state Route 240, leading to South Richland and Kennewick. Ben Franklin Transit has about 20 bus routes throughout the region, too, and neighboring Pasco has the Amtrak Empire Builder line. This rail follows much of Lewis and Clark’s route, a 1,750-mile stretch from Portland to Chicago. The Richland Airport is on Richland’s north side, but Spokane International Airport is about 140 miles northeast.
I-82 is a major freeway that locals use to get around.
Richland offers beautiful views over the city with nearby hiking trails.
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Written By
Matt Medl
Photography Contributed By
Brandon Wong
Video By
Mike Dunleavy
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Linda Craig,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
On average, homes in Richland, WA sell after 70 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Richland, WA over the last 12 months is $499,945, down 8% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
MLS# 294334 Welcome home to this beautifully designed Alderbrook two-story home, ideally situated directly across from a picturesque neighborhood park in one of the area’s most desirable communities. Offering 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, a versatile den, and a spacious 3-car garage, this home perfectly blends comfort, style, and everyday functionality. Step inside to an inviting open-concept floor
MLS# 294381 Welcome home to one of Kennewick’s most desirable established neighborhoods, where spacious homes, large lots, and a peaceful setting create the perfect place to put down roots. This beautifully updated 4-bedroom, 2-bath home offers over 3,000 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space with a functional split-level layout that provides the perfect balance of gathering areas and
MLS# 294163 Nestled at the base of Badger Mountain and just moments from Goose Ridge Estate Vineyard & Winery, this beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom rambler offers low-maintenance living in the highly desirable West Village community. The open-concept great room features brand new LVP flooring, a modern electric fireplace, mounted smart TV, ceiling fan and plenty of space for everyday
MLS# 292290 Positioned along one of the Tri-Cities most traveled corridors, this 1.15 acre commercial parcel offers a rare opportunity to capitalize on the rapid growth between Richland and West Richland. With General Commercial (C3) Zoning, this property is ideally suited for a wide range of commercial uses including retail, service-based businesses, mixed use development or investment hold.
MLS# 291301 Located in the desirable Country Ridge neighborhood, this exceptional 4-level home offers 4,598 square feet of beautifully designed living space with room to gather, relax, and entertain. From morning sunrises on the deck overlooking the pool to evening sunsets on the wraparound porch, this home is your retreat. The main level welcomes you with spacious living and dining areas filled
MLS# 293542 Located between Jefferson Park and the river, this historic "B" house has been tastefully converted to a midcentury modern dream. From the moment you step in, you will love the new hickory wood floors in the living room and all the light that comes in through the oversized picture window. The split bedroom layout features a primary suite on one end with an attached office, skylight,
MLS# 288331 Another impeccably crafted home by award winning Windy River Homes! This one located in the South Richland neighborhood of South Orchards. Easy access to shopping, schools, the newest mercantile and so much more. A spacious two story home offering 4 big bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms plus an extra deep two car garage with working space for whatever you'd like (and RV Parking on the
MLS# 291088 What if your next home gave you more time to enjoy life instead of maintaining it? Imagine starting your mornings with coffee on the shaded front patio, where neighbors wave hello as they stroll by. Afternoons are spent tending to beautiful landscaping that's designed to be admired—not to take over your weekends. Evenings end on the private back patio, surrounded by peaceful quiet and
MLS# 294181 LOWEST PRICE IN SOUTH RICHLAND! Unbeatable value awaits in The Hills Mobile Home Park. This 2 BR, 2 BA, 1,008 sq ft manufactured home sits on a huge corner lot with a fantastic large yard and a convenient carport. Packed with recent high-value upgrades, featuring brand-new energy-efficient windows, a brand-new hot water tank, and a private primary bath with a relaxing jetted tub. All
MLS# 294002 Experience the best of South Richland living in this beautiful single-story home, offering 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms and a versatile flex room. This home combines the space you need with the convenience of a highly desirable location.Vaulted ceilings and abundant natural light create an open feel throughout the main living areas, while new laminate flooring and a cozy gas fireplace
Enjoy convenience and comfort in our stylish single-level Ashwood plan. Walking past the spacious entry and laundry room, this functional design features an open-concept kitchen,dining and great room making entertaining friends and family seem effortless. Beyond this space is two bedrooms plus the owners suite.The owners suite features a walk-in closet, optional dual sinks and a 60 tub/shower.
MLS# 292604 BUYER COULDN"T CLOSE. This ideal home is back on the market, through no fault of its own. If you’re dreaming of peaceful country living, this Rancho Reata gem offers the perfect balance of space, comfort, and charm. Set on nearly an acre of beautifully landscaped grounds and offering over 2,500 square feet of living space. Step inside to a welcoming foyer that opens to a bright front
MLS# 294334 Welcome home to this beautifully designed Alderbrook two-story home, ideally situated directly across from a picturesque neighborhood park in one of the area’s most desirable communities. Offering 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, a versatile den, and a spacious 3-car garage, this home perfectly blends comfort, style, and everyday functionality. Step inside to an inviting open-concept floor
MLS# 285292 MLS #285286Amazing view lot located in the highly sought-after Crested Hills neighborhood of South Richland. This is a premier, build-ready view lot ideal for a luxury custom home. Enjoy expansive panoramic views of the Tri-Cities and the beautiful rivers below—an exceptional setting for elevated living.Bring your builder and create a true masterpiece in one of Richland’s most
MLS# 288320 New Windy River Home: Amon Waterway Views and Custom Shop Space in South Richland! Experience luxury living in this brand-new, well crafted rambler with a daylight basement, proudly built by award winning Windy River Homes.Positioned on a 1/3rd acre lot in South Richland, this home offers more than just luxury—it provides a stunning, tranquil backdrop with breathtaking views
Welcome to Mosaic on the River, a premier apartment community located in Richland, Washington. Ourapartments are designed to offer you the perfect balance of comfort and style.Whether you're a shortor long-term working professional, a student, or just someone who wants to enjoy life in the Tri-Cities area, Mosaic on the River is the perfect place for you. Our community's prime
Brand-New TownhomesWestland Townhomes seamlessly blends an active lifestyle with a peaceful community atmosphere. From vibrant, fun-filled amenities to serene, tranquil spaces, our community is designed to offer an amazing living experience. Whether you’re enjoying a lively activity or unwinding in a calm setting, Westland Townhomes provides the perfect balance for a fulfilling
Discover brand-new 2- and 3-bedroom townhomes featuring attached garages, designed to deliver the space, privacy, and comfort of a home, without the long-term commitment. Enjoy a modern lifestyle in a thoughtfully crafted community that blends convenience with elevated living. Ideally located in the highly sought-after South Richland neighborhood, everything you need to live, work, and play is
Welcome to Affinity at Badger Mt, where life for the 55+ crowd is anything but ordinary! Here, we redefine what it means to live actively and passionately. Our community buzzes with vibrant energy, offering a family-like atmosphere where you and your furry friends feel right at home. Enjoy and play in over 30,000 square feet of social and activity space, including weekly happy hour at our very
Searching for affordable housing in Richland, Washington designed for comfort and ease? Copper Mountain offers income-qualified, pet-friendly 1, 2, 3, and 4 bedroom apartments in a welcoming Richland community. Experience spacious primary bedrooms with walk-in closets, the convenience of full-size washers and dryers, and a heated outdoor swimming pool surrounded by inviting, landscaped grounds.
Find your new home at Richland Court. The professional leasing team is excited to help you find your dream apartment. These apartments feature a wide variety of modern amenities. Some of these include: smoke-free options, a sauna, and tile floors. It's time to find your new home. Contact or stop by Richland Court to schedule a tour!
Welcome to Regency Park Apartments in Queensgate, a pet-friendly community, with spacious and contemporary studio, one, two, and three-bedroom homes. Our smoke-free apartments in Richland are beautifully designed, featuring large windows, granite countertops, beautiful cabinetry, walk-in closets, private balconies or patios, and Energy Star appliances that include a full-size washer and dryer
The Tides at Willow Pointe delivers unparalleled amenities with the perks of upscale riverfront living. Our pet-friendly, one- and two-bedroom luxury apartment homes embrace quality and sophistication. Designer inspired features like open-concept living areas, distinctive wood-style flooring, personal balconies, and stainless steel appliances transform your home into a high-end residence,
Nestled in a great South Richland neighborhood, Badger Mountain Ranch offers brand new one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments for rent. Enjoy an array of amenities including a theatre room, tanning, a shimmering pool and an invigorating spa where the serene setting, coupled with an awesome mountain view, will whisk you away. Part of the Richland School District, the community offers a
If you're searching for the perfect combination of location, luxury, and community, look no further than Vicinity Horn Rapids. Located in Richland, Washington, in one of the most prestigious up-and-coming neighborhoods in the Tri-Cities. Our brand-new apartment community features pet-friendly one, two, and three-bedroom apartment homes with large floor plans, contemporary interiors, and
At The Lofts at Innovation Center, we've designed every detail in and around our studio, one-, and two-bedroom apartments with you in mind. Our apartments for rent are filled with ideal features, including a washer and dryer, high ceilings, large closets, and more - but luxury goes beyond the doorstep! Where you live matters just as much as how you live. We offer multiple swimming pools, hot
The Franklin represents a new and modern apartment community. Located in the heart of Downtown Richland, The Franklin boasts easy access to shopping, bars, restaurants, universities, hospitals, and recreational activities. This pet-friendly collection of designer-inspired studio apartments features an onsite fitness center incorporating the latest equipment, and a storage bike room. The Franklin
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
