Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Norfolk, VA
Thinking of moving to Norfolk, VA? With a population of over 233,000, Norfolk offers a vibrant urban lifestyle at a moderate cost of living—median home prices are around $269,000 and average rents are $1,320. The city enjoys 62% sunny days, mild winters, and quick commutes averaging just 23 minutes. While crime rates are higher than average, Norfolk is home to major hospitals, diverse educational options, and plenty of waterfront attractions, making it a dynamic place to live and work.
Demographics - Norfolk, VA
Demographics - Norfolk, VA
Norfolk is a diverse city of over 233,000 residents, featuring a youthful median age of 30.9 and a nearly balanced gender ratio. The population includes a mix of White (46%), Black (41.5%), and Asian (4.1%) residents, with 9.6% speaking a language other than English at home. This urban community is densely populated, fostering a vibrant and multicultural environment.
Population:
233,550
Density:
4,600 per sq mi
Median Age:
30.9
Gender Ratio:
95 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
9.6%
Ethnic Composition
White:
46.0%
Black:
41.5%
Asian:
4.1%
Others:
8.4%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Norfolk, VA?
Living in Norfolk is relatively affordable, with a cost of living index just below the national average at 97.8. Median home values are around $269,000 and average rent is $1,320, making the city accessible for both homeowners and renters. Utilities and groceries are also reasonably priced, supporting a comfortable lifestyle.
Median House Value:
$269,000
Gross Rent:
$1,320
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$145
Auto Insurance:
$1,440
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,670
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$610
State Taxes:
Low:
2.0%
|
High:
5.75%
Cost Of Living Index:
97.8
Grocery:
97.2
Housing:
88.5
Utilities:
101.3
Transportation:
93.7
Health Care:
99.4
Miscellaneous:
96.3
Crime
Is Norfolk, VA a safe place to live?
Norfolk experiences higher-than-average crime rates, with about 507 violent crimes and 2,663 property crimes per 100,000 residents. The chance of being a victim of violent crime is roughly 1 in 197, while property crime risk is 1 in 38. Residents should stay aware, but many neighborhoods remain safe and community-focused.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
507
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,663
Crime Index:
3,170
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 197
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 38
Weather
What is the weather like in Norfolk, VA year-round?
Norfolk boasts a mild climate with winters averaging 34–50°F and summers ranging from 70–87°F. The city enjoys around 62% sunny days each year and receives about 47 inches of rainfall, making it ideal for those who appreciate moderate weather and outdoor activities year-round.
Winter
Min:
34°F
Max:
50°F
Spring
Min:
50°F
Max:
71°F
Summer
Min:
70°F
Max:
87°F
Fall
Min:
55°F
Max:
74°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
47 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
Typical households in Norfolk earn a median income of about $57,300, and the poverty rate is 16.2%. Most residents have at least a high school diploma, and the average commute time is under 23 minutes. The community is diverse, with a growing number of non-English speakers and a modest use of public transportation.
Median Income:
$36,750
Household Income:
$57,300
Family Income:
$66,500
Per Capita Income:
$29,900
Income Male:
$39,600
Income Female:
$34,400
Poverty Rate:
16.2%
Non English Speakers:
9.6%
Rent:
$1,320
Unemployment Rate:
4.6%
Public Transport Usage:
2.7%
Commute Time:
22.6 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
89.3%
Bachelors or More:
28.0%
Education
How are the schools in Norfolk, VA?
Norfolk offers a range of educational opportunities, from public schools like Maury and Granby High Schools to private institutions such as Norfolk Collegiate. Higher education is anchored by Old Dominion University and Norfolk State University, both located within the city and serving thousands of students. The city’s schools support a vibrant academic community with options for families and learners of all ages.
Public Schools
Name:
Maury High School
Street:
322 Shirley Ave
Phone:
757-628-3344
Students:
1,700
Student Teacher Ratio:
18.2
Name:
Granby High School
Street:
7101 Granby St
Phone:
757-451-4110
Students:
2,100
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.7
Private Schools
Name:
Norfolk Collegiate School
Street:
7336 Granby St
Phone:
757-480-2885
Students:
1,100
Colleges
Name:
Old Dominion University
City:
Norfolk
State:
VA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
24,000
Name:
Norfolk State University
City:
Norfolk
State:
VA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
5,200
Healthcare
Norfolk is served by major healthcare providers like Sentara Norfolk General Hospital and Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters, ensuring access to comprehensive medical care. With 2.3 physicians per 1,000 residents and a health insurance coverage rate of 90.5%, the city offers strong healthcare resources for families and individuals.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Sentara Norfolk General Hospital
Address:
600 Gresham Dr, Norfolk, VA 23507
Phone:
(757) 388-3000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters
Address:
601 Children's Ln, Norfolk, VA 23507
Phone:
(757) 668-7000
Type:
Children's Hospital
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.3
Health Insurance Coverage:
90.5%
Health Care Index:
72.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Norfolk, VA?
The housing market in Norfolk features a median home price of $269,000 and average two-bedroom rent at $1,320, with home values appreciating by 4.4% over the past year. About 45% of homes are owner-occupied, and the rental vacancy rate stands at 7.6%, offering options for both buyers and renters. The market remains stable with low foreclosure rates and steady new construction.
Median Home Price:
$269,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,320
Owner Occupied Rate:
45.3%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.6%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.4%
New Construction Rate:
2.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Norfolk residents are served by the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles at 850 Widgeon Rd, offering comprehensive motor vehicle services. The local DMV provides convenient access for licensing, registration, and other driving needs, and additional information is available on the Virginia DMV website.
State:
Virginia
Department:
Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles
Address:
Norfolk DMV Customer Service Center, 850 Widgeon Rd, Norfolk, VA 23513
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.