Richmond is a city located in the East Bay region of the San Francisco Bay Area in Northern California. With a population of 109,471 as of 2019, it is the second largest city in Contra Costa County. Richmond has a diverse community and a rich history shaped by its port, industries, and role in World War II shipbuilding.
Population
As of 2019, the population of Richmond was estimated at 109,471 according to the United States Census Bureau. This makes it the second most populous city in Contra Costa County after Concord.
The racial makeup of Richmond is diverse, with Latinos making up nearly 40% of the population. The census reported the following racial breakdown in 2019:
- 39.5% Hispanic or Latino
- 26.1% Black or African American
- 12.9% Asian
- 12.7% White
- 5.1% Two or more races
- 0.8% Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander
- 0.6% American Indian and Alaska Native
Historically, Richmond experienced major growth during World War II due to migration from other states for wartime industry jobs. The city’s population peaked at around 130,000 in the 1950s and then declined in subsequent decades. In recent years, the population has been gradually increasing again.
Economy and Major Employers
Richmond has a diversified economy with heavy and light manufacturing, service industries, transportation, agriculture, and commercial fishing. Some of the major employers include:
- Chevron Refinery – Richmond’s largest employer with over 3,000 employees
- Social Security Administration – Federal agency with regional office and over 1,000 employees in Richmond
- City of Richmond – Public sector employer
- Kaiser Permanente Richmond Medical Center – Major healthcare provider and employer
- United States Postal Service Processing & Distribution Center – Large distribution and processing facility
Other major industries that contribute significantly to Richmond’s economy include healthcare, retail, construction, transportation, and food manufacturing. The city has worked to attract renewable energy companies in recent years as part of economic development efforts.
Richmond does face some socioeconomic challenges including poverty, unemployment, and crime rates that exceed the national average. Ongoing efforts aim to create more opportunities and uplift the community.
Landmarks
Some of the most notable landmarks and points of interest in Richmond include:
- Rosie the Riveter WWII Home Front National Historical Park – Honors Richmond’s role in shipbuilding during WWII
- Craneway Pavilion – Historically a Ford assembly plant, now an event venue
- East Brother Light Station – Historic lighthouse on an island near the Richmond shore
- Point Richmond – Quaint historic neighborhood with shops and eateries
- Richmond Museum of History – Highlights Richmond’s natural and cultural history
In addition, Richmond’s shoreline along the San Francisco Bay features miles of trails, beaches, and recreation areas offering beautiful views and outdoor activities.
Sports
The city is home to the professional Minor League Baseball team the Richmond Flying Squirrels, the Double-A affiliate of the San Francisco Giants. The Flying Squirrels play at the Diamond in Richmond.
Additionally, Richmond fields competitive sports teams at the high school and collegiate level. The Richmond High School Oilers have claimed state championships in basketball, football, track, swimming, and more over the decades.
You can follow the latest news and information about Richmond by liking the City of Richmond Facebook page. The page shares community updates, event announcements, city policies, and more.