The community has retained its charming visual identity, heritage and unique character throughout its colourful history. With a current population of approximately 120,000 people, the community of Richmond Hill continues to expand. The popular community is a short 30 minute drive from Pearson International Airport. The Richmond Hill Council's Budget Committee is always working to maintain the town as an inviting place to live. The committee approved a 3 per cent decrease to the residential tax rate for the year 2000.
Education is an important part of life in Richmond Hill.
The York Region District School Board and the York Region Catholic District School Board provide fine educational studies for elementary and secondary school students. Seneca College offers two nearby campuses and the University of Toronto, York University and Ryerson Polytechnic University are in nearby Toronto. The Dunlap Observatory is also located in Richmond Hill which serves as the Centre of Astronomy for University of Toronto students. Richmond Hill has a large industrial base with over 3,500 businesses, high tech manufacturers, corporate head offices and business parks calling Richmond Hill home. Four major business parks include Beaver Creek Business Park, Newkirk Industrial Park, Headford Business Park and Bayview Glen Business Area.