If you’re looking for a home in the Virginia Beach area this year, it might be best to explore the neighboring cities. While Virginia Beach is a great place to live, these neighboring cities combine coastal charm with suburban tranquility, offering a wide range of options for renters and buyers. These top cities put you just a short drive away from the vibrant Virginia Beach Boardwalk. In this Redfin article, you can compare rents and housing costs, find commute times, and find a property that fits your budget and preferences.
1. Chesapeake
Average commute time to Virginia Beach: 20 min
Median home sales price: $400,000
Average rent: $1,328
Chesapeake is perfect for: Outdoor activities, friendly neighborhoods and a strong community atmosphere
Chesapeake is known for its blend of urban and rural environments, offering plenty of green space and a tranquil atmosphere. Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge is a well-known landmark and offers opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and kayaking. Chesapeake’s economy is diverse, with major sectors such as retail, healthcare, and manufacturing contributing to a stable local economy. Residents enjoy a suburban lifestyle and have access to excellent schools, parks, and community events. The city is also known for its commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable living.
Interested in moving to the Chesapeake? Check out:
Homes for Sale in Chesapeake, Virginia | Apartments for Rent in Chesapeake, Virginia | Homes for Rent in Chesapeake, Virginia
2. Norfolk
Average commute time to Virginia Beach: 25 min
Median home sales price: $315,000
Average rent: $1,377
Norfolk is perfect for: Cultural activities, waterfront life and military presence
Norfolk is a city with a rich history and a bustling waterfront. Naval Station NorfolkIt is the world’s largest naval base and has a major impact on the local economy. Notable tourist attractions include: Chrysler Museum of Art And that Virginia Zoois popular with locals and tourists. Norfolk’s economy is supported by sectors such as defense, maritime, and healthcare. The lifestyle here is dynamic, with a mix of urban and suburban areas offering a wide variety of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. The city is also known for its efforts in urban revitalization and community development.
Interested in moving to Norfolk? Check out:
Homes for Sale in Norfolk, Virginia | Apartments for Rent in Norfolk, Virginia | Homes for Rent in Norfolk, Virginia
3. Portsmouth
Average commute time to Virginia Beach: half an hour
Median home sales price: $259,000
Average rent: $1,142
Portsmouth is recommended for: Historic Charm, Waterfront Activities and Community Events
Portsmouth is a city with a rich maritime history and a fascinating historic district. Old Town The area is known for its well-preserved 18th and 19th century buildings, offering a glimpse into the past. The city’s economy is Norfolk Naval Shipyard A variety of medical facilities are available. Residents enjoy a close-knit community with numerous festivals, farmers’ markets, and waterfront activities. Portsmouth has a laid-back lifestyle with an emphasis on preserving historical heritage and promoting modern amenities. The city is also known for its strong commitment to promoting arts and culture.
Are you interested in moving to Portsmouth? Check out:
Homes for Sale in Portsmouth, Virginia | Apartments for Rent in Portsmouth, Virginia | Homes for Rent in Portsmouth, Virginia
4. Suffolk
Average commute time to Virginia Beach: 40 minutes
Median home sales price: $389,000
Average rent: $1,526
Suffolk is perfect for: Rural charm, agricultural activity and a growing community
Suffolk is known for its rural charm and agricultural roots, offering a tranquil and beautiful environment. Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge Stretching into Suffolk, outdoor recreation opportunities are abundant. The city’s economy is diverse, with agriculture, manufacturing and retail contributing significantly. Residents enjoy a laid-back lifestyle while attending local farms, markets and community events. Suffolk is also known for its efforts to promote sustainable agriculture and protect its natural landscapes.
Interested in moving to Suffolk? Check out:
Homes for Sale in Suffolk, Virginia | Apartments for Rent in Suffolk, Virginia | Homes for Rent in Suffolk, Virginia
5. Hampton
Average commute time to Virginia Beach: 35 min
Median home sales price: $280,000
Average rent: $1,420
The Hampton is perfect for: Historic sites, waterfront living and aerospace
Hampton is a city with a rich history and strong ties to the aerospace industry. Virginia Air and Space Center Hampton is a famous landmark that draws tourists interested in aviation and space exploration. The city’s economy is driven by defense, aerospace, and healthcare sectors. Residents enjoy a waterfront lifestyle with access to beaches, marinas, and parks. Hampton is also known for its historical sites, such as: Fort Monroe And that Hampton History MuseumIt’s a place where you can learn about the city’s history, enjoy a vibrant community and experience numerous festivals, cultural events and recreational activities.
Interested in moving to the Hamptons? Check out:
Homes for Sale in Hampton, Virginia | Apartments for Rent in Hampton, Virginia | Homes for Rent in Hampton, Virginia
6. Newport News
Average commute time to Virginia Beach: 40 minutes
Median home sales price: $300,000
Average rent: $1,283
Newport News is the perfect place for: Shipbuilding, Educational Institutions, Outdoor Activities
Newport News is a city known for its shipbuilding industry and educational institutions. Newport News Shipbuildingis a major employer and has a significant impact on the local economy. Christopher Newport University There are a variety of research facilities available, and residents enjoy a blend of urban and suburban living with access to parks, museums, cultural events and more. Mariners Museum Newport News Park is a popular tourist spot that showcases maritime history, and Newport News is known for its commitment to education and community development.
Interested in moving to Newport News? Check out:
Homes for Sale in Newport News, Virginia | Apartments for Rent in Newport News, Virginia | Homes for Rent in Newport News, Virginia
7. Williamsburg
Average commute time to Virginia Beach: 45 min
Median home sales price: $389,000
Average rent: $1,778
Williamsburg is perfect for: Historical sites, educational institutions and tourism
Williamsburg is a city known for its historical importance and educational institutions. Colonial Williamsburg is a major tourist attraction and offers a living history museum that takes visitors back to the 18th century. The city’s economy is driven by tourism, education and healthcare. College of William and Mary Williamsburg is an important contributor. Residents enjoy a blend of historic charm and modern amenities, including access to parks, museums, and cultural events. Williamsburg is also known for its commitment to preserving its historic heritage and promoting tourism.
Interested in moving to Williamsburg? Check out:
Homes for Sale in Williamsburg, Virginia | Apartments for Rent in Williamsburg, Virginia | Homes for Rent in Williamsburg, Virginia
8. Newport
Average commute time to Virginia Beach: 45 min
Median home sales price: $300,000
Average rent: $1,283
Newport is perfect for: Coastal living, outdoor activities and community events
Newport is known as one of the coastal cities with the lowest cost of living in Virginia. The city offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including beaches, parks, and marinas. The local economy is supported by sectors such as tourism, retail, and healthcare. Residents enjoy a laid-back lifestyle while participating in local events, farmers’ markets, cultural festivals, and more. Newport is also known for its efforts to protect the environment and promote sustainable living. The city’s beautiful scenery and vibrant community make it an attractive place to live.
Interested in moving to Newport? Check out:
Homes for Sale in Newport, Virginia | Apartments for Rent in Newport, Virginia | Homes for Rent in Newport, Virginia
9. Poxon
Average commute time to Virginia Beach: 40 minutes
Median home sales price: $349,000
Average rent: $1,700
Poquoson is perfect for: Small town charm, waterfront activities and strong community
Poquoson is a small city known for its waterfront activities and strong community spirit. The city offers a tranquil atmosphere and Chesapeake BayIt is ideal for boating, fishing, and other water-related activities. The local economy is supported by sectors such as education, healthcare, and retail. Residents enjoy a close-knit community with numerous local events, festivals, and recreational opportunities. Poquoson is also known for its efforts to promote environmental conservation and preserve its natural beauty. The city’s small-town charm and beautiful setting make it an attractive place to live.
Interested in moving to Poquoson? Check out:
Homes for Sale in Poquoson, VA | Apartments for Rent in Poquoson, VA | Homes for Rent in Poquoson, VA
10. Smithfield
Average commute time to Virginia Beach: 45 min
Median home sales price: $439,000
Average rent: $1,650
Smithfield is perfect for: Historical attractions, local events and agricultural activities
Smithfield is a city known for its historic charm and agricultural activity. Famous for Smithfield Ham, the city hosts a variety of local markets and festivals that celebrate its agricultural traditions. The local economy is supported by the agricultural, manufacturing and retail sectors. Residents enjoy a blend of historic charm and modern amenities, with access to parks, museums, local events and more. Smithfield is also known for its commitment to preserving its historic heritage and promoting local agriculture. The city’s beautiful landscapes and vibrant community make it an attractive place to live.
Interested in moving to Smithfield? Check out:
Homes for Sale in Smithfield, Virginia | Apartments for Rent in Smithfield, Virginia | Homes for Rent in Smithfield, Virginia
methodology: All cities must be within 50 miles of Virginia Beach. Median home sales prices and rents are Redfin and Rent.com In June 2024.
