Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Cape Charles, VA
Considering a move to Cape Charles, VA? This charming coastal town of about 1,180 people offers a relaxed, small-town atmosphere with a median home price of $367,000 and typical rent around $1,250. Crime rates are quite low (violent crime: 83 per 100K), and you’ll enjoy a sunny climate with mild winters and warm summers. Commute times are short (26 minutes), and the area is served by solid local schools and convenient healthcare. Cape Charles is ideal for those seeking a peaceful lifestyle near the Chesapeake Bay.
Demographics - Cape Charles, VA
Demographics - Cape Charles, VA
Cape Charles is a close-knit coastal community with about 1,180 residents, most of whom are over the age of 58, reflecting a mature population. The town is predominantly White (77.5%), with notable Black (18.2%) and small Asian and other minority groups, and has a balanced gender ratio. A small percentage of non-English speakers (5.1%) adds to its gentle diversity.
Population:
1,180
Density:
870 per sq mi
Median Age:
58.4
Gender Ratio:
92 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
5.1%
Ethnic Composition
White:
77.5%
Black:
18.2%
Asian:
1.1%
Others:
3.2%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Cape Charles, VA?
Living in Cape Charles is slightly above the national average, with a cost of living index of 102.4. The median home value sits at $367,000 and typical rent is around $1,250, making housing the largest expense. Utilities, groceries, and healthcare costs are all close to national norms, while Virginia’s state income tax ranges from 2.0% to 5.75%.
Median House Value:
$367,000
Gross Rent:
$1,250
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$145
Auto Insurance:
$1,120
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,420
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$495
State Taxes:
Low:
2.0%
|
High:
5.75%
Cost Of Living Index:
102.4
Grocery:
98.6
Housing:
108.3
Utilities:
104.8
Transportation:
101.2
Health Care:
97.4
Miscellaneous:
100.7
Crime
Is Cape Charles, VA a safe place to live?
Cape Charles enjoys a low crime rate, with just 83 violent crimes and 530 property crimes per 100,000 residents, offering peace of mind for residents. The chance of experiencing a violent crime is about 1 in 1,205, making it a safe location for families and retirees. Overall, the community is known for its secure and relaxed atmosphere.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
83
Property Crimes Per 100k:
530
Crime Index:
613
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,205
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 188
Weather
What is the weather like in Cape Charles, VA year-round?
The town experiences pleasant weather year-round, with mild winters averaging lows of 34°F and warm summers reaching highs of 87°F. Cape Charles receives about 47.8 inches of annual rainfall and enjoys sunshine 61% of the time. This climate is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and those who appreciate a temperate coastal environment.
Winter
Min:
34°F
Max:
49°F
Spring
Min:
48°F
Max:
68°F
Summer
Min:
70°F
Max:
87°F
Fall
Min:
52°F
Max:
73°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
47.8 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
61%
Neighbors
Cape Charles has a median household income of $56,800 and a family income of $65,100, with a poverty rate of 13.6%. Most residents (89.4%) have at least a high school diploma, and commute times are short, averaging just over 26 minutes. The community values education and offers a friendly, small-town vibe.
Median Income:
$34,900
Household Income:
$56,800
Family Income:
$65,100
Per Capita Income:
$32,100
Income Male:
$36,500
Income Female:
$28,900
Poverty Rate:
13.6%
Non English Speakers:
5.1%
Rent:
$1,250
Unemployment Rate:
4.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.8%
Commute Time:
26.1 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
89.4%
Bachelors or More:
27.5%
Education
How are the schools in Cape Charles, VA?
Cape Charles is served by well-rated public schools, including Kiptopeke Elementary and Northampton High School, both offering low student-teacher ratios. The area also features private school options and is within 25 miles of Eastern Shore Community College for higher education. Families benefit from a variety of educational opportunities suited to different age groups.
Public Schools
Name:
Kiptopeke Elementary School
Street:
24023 Fairview Rd
Phone:
757-331-4030
Students:
340
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.3
Name:
Northampton High School
Street:
16041 Courthouse Rd
Phone:
757-678-5151
Students:
420
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.7
Private Schools
Name:
Broadwater Academy
Street:
3500 Broadwater Rd, Exmore, VA 23350
Phone:
757-442-9041
Students:
340
Colleges
Name:
Eastern Shore Community College
City:
Melfa
State:
VA
Distance:
25 miles
Students:
1,200
Healthcare
Healthcare access is strong, with 91.5% of residents covered by health insurance and about 1.8 physicians per 1,000 people. The local hospital, Riverside Shore Memorial Hospital, provides general and emergency services within a short drive. Cape Charles offers reliable healthcare for families and retirees alike.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Riverside Shore Memorial Hospital
Address:
20480 Market St, Onancock, VA 23417
Phone:
(757) 302-2100
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.8
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.5%
Health Care Index:
69.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Cape Charles, VA?
Cape Charles has a stable housing market, with a median home price of $367,000 and home values appreciating at 7.4% over the past year. Two-bedroom rentals average $1,250 and most homes (67.3%) are owner-occupied. The area features a low foreclosure rate and moderate vacancy, making it attractive for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$367,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,250
Owner Occupied Rate:
67.3%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.4%
New Construction Rate:
2.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Cape Charles residents are served by the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles office located on Church Street. DMV services such as licensing and vehicle registration are easily accessible locally. The office provides convenient support for all your motor vehicle needs.
State:
Virginia
Department:
Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
17001 Church St, Cape Charles, VA 23310
Phone:
1-804-497-7100
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.