If you’re looking for property near Virginia Beach this year, exploring nearby cities may be your best bet. While Virginia Beach is a great place to live, these neighboring cities offer a blend of coastal charm and suburban tranquility, providing renters and buyers with a variety of options. Live in these top cities just a short drive from the vibrant Virginia Beach Boardwalk. In this Redfin article, you can compare rent and housing costs, learn about commute times, and find something that fits your budget and preferences. 
1. Chesapeake
Average commute time to Virginia Beach: 20 minutes
Median home sales price: $400,000
Average rent: $1,328
Chesapeake is great for: Outdoor activities, friendly neighbors, and a strong community feel
Chesapeake is a city known for its blend of urban and rural settings, with a peaceful atmosphere and ample green space. The Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge is a famous landmark that offers opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and kayaking. Chesapeake’s economy is diversified, with major industries including retail, health care and manufacturing, contributing to the stability of the local economy. Residents enjoy a suburban lifestyle with access to excellent schools, parks and community activities. The city is also known for its initiatives in environmental protection and sustainable living.
Interested in moving to the Chesapeake? Check:
Chesapeake, VA Homes for Sale | Chesapeake, VA Apartments for Rent | Chesapeake, VA Homes for Rent
2. Norfolk
Average commute time to Virginia Beach: 25 minutes
Median home sales price: $315,000
Average rent: $1,377
Norfolk is suitable for: Cultural activities, seaside life, military presence
Norfolk is a city with rich history and a busy seafront. The city is home to Naval Station Norfolk, the largest naval base in the world, which has a significant impact on the local economy. Notable attractions include the Chrysler Museum of Art and the Virginia Zoo, both popular with locals and tourists. Norfolk’s economy is supported by industries such as defence, shipping and healthcare. The lifestyle here is a vibrant mix of urban and suburban areas, offering a 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:
Homes for Sale in Norfolk, VA | Apartments for Rent in Norfolk, VA | Homes for Rent in Norfolk, VA
3. Portsmouth
Average commute time to Virginia Beach: 30 minutes
Median home sales price: $259,000
Average rent: $1,142
Portsmouth is great for: Historic charm, waterfront activities, community events
Portsmouth is a city with a rich maritime history and charming historic districts. The Old Towne is famous for its well-preserved 18th and 19th century buildings, where you can get a glimpse of the past. The city’s economy is supported by the Norfolk Naval Shipyard and various medical facilities. Residents enjoy a close-knit community with numerous festivals, farmers markets, and waterfront activities. Portsmouth’s lifestyle is relaxed and focused on preserving its heritage while promoting modern amenities. The city has also been recognized for its efforts in promoting arts and culture.
Interested in moving to Portsmouth? Check:
Portsmouth, VA Homes for Sale | Portsmouth, VA Apartments for Rent | Portsmouth, VA Homes for Rent
4. Suffolk County
Average commute time to Virginia Beach: 40 minutes
Median home sales price: $389,000
Average rent: $1,526
Suffolk is suitable for: Rural charm, agricultural activities, growing community
Known for its rural charm and agricultural roots, Suffolk offers a peaceful and scenic setting. The Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge stretches into Suffolk, providing ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. The city has a diversified economy, with agriculture, manufacturing and retail making significant contributions. Residents enjoy a slower-paced lifestyle with access to local farms, markets and community events. Suffolk is also known for its efforts in promoting permaculture and protecting natural landscapes.
Interested in moving to Suffolk? Check:
Suffolk, VA Homes for Sale | Suffolk, VA Apartments for Rent | Suffolk, VA Homes for Rent
5. Hampton
Average commute time to Virginia Beach: 35 minutes
Median home sales price: $280,000
Average rent: $1,420
The Hamptons is great for: Historical monuments, seaside life, aerospace industry
Hampton is a historic city with close ties to the aerospace industry. The Virginia Air and Space Center is a famous landmark that attracts visitors interested in aviation and space exploration. The city’s economy is supported by industries such as defense, aerospace and healthcare. Residents enjoy a seaside lifestyle with access to beaches, marinas and parks. Hampton is also known for its historical sites, including Fort Monroe and the Hampton Historical Museum, which offers insight into the city’s past. The community is vibrant and hosts numerous festivals, cultural events and entertainment events.
Interested in moving to the Hamptons? Check:
Hampton, VA Homes for Sale | Hampton, VA Apartments for Rent | Hampton, VA Houses for Rent
6. Newport News
Average commute time to Virginia Beach: 40 minutes
Median home sales price: $300,000
Average rent: $1,283
Newport News is great for: Shipbuilding industry, educational institutions, outdoor activities
Newport News is a city known for its shipbuilding industry and educational institutions. Newport News Shipbuilding is a major employer and has a significant impact on the local economy. The city is home to Christopher Newport University and various research facilities. Residents enjoy a mix of urban and suburban living, with access to parks, museums and cultural events. The Mariners Museum and Park is a famous attraction that provides insight into maritime history. Newport News is also known for its efforts in promoting education and community development.
Interested in moving to Newport News? Check:
Newport News, VA Homes for Sale | Newport News, VA Apartments for Rent | Newport News, VA Homes for Rent
7. Williamsburg
Average commute time to Virginia Beach: 45 minutes
Median home sales price: $389,000
Average rent: $1,778
Williamsburg is great for: Historic attractions, educational institutions, tourism
Williamsburg is a city known for its historical significance and educational institutions. Colonial Williamsburg is a major attraction, with a living history museum that takes visitors back to the 18th century. The city’s economy is driven by tourism, education, and health care, with the College of William and Mary making a significant contribution. Residents enjoy a blend of historic charm and modern amenities, with access to parks, museums and cultural events. Williamsburg is also known for its efforts in preserving historic heritage and promoting tourism.
Interested in moving to Williamsburg? Check:
Williamsburg, VA Homes for Sale | Williamsburg, VA Apartments for Rent | Williamsburg, VA Homes for Rent
8. Newport
Average commute time to Virginia Beach: 45 minutes
Median home sales price: $300,000
Average rent: $1,283
Newport is great for: Waterfront living, outdoor activities, community events
Newport is a city considered one of the most affordable places to live along the coast in Virginia. The city offers a variety of recreational facilities, including beaches, parks and marinas. The local economy is supported by industries such as tourism, retail and healthcare. Residents can enjoy a relaxed lifestyle and participate in community events, farmers markets and cultural festivals. Newport is also known for its efforts in promoting environmental conservation and sustainable living. The city’s beautiful scenery and vibrant communities make it an attractive place to live.
Interested in moving to Newport? Check:
Newport, VA Homes for Sale | Newport, VA Apartments for Rent | Newport, VA Homes for Rent
9. Pocuson
Average commute time to Virginia Beach: 40 minutes
Median home sales price: $349,000
Average rent: $1,700
Poquoson is ideal for: Small town charm, waterfront activities, strong community
Poquoson is a small city known for its waterfront activities and strong community spirit. The city has a peaceful atmosphere and offers access to the Chesapeake Bay, perfect for boating, fishing, and other water 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 entertainment opportunities. Pocuson is also known for its efforts in promoting environmental conservation and preserving natural beauty. The city’s small-town charm and scenic surroundings make it an ideal place to live.
Interested in moving to Poquoson? Check:
Poquoson, VA Homes for Sale | Poquoson, VA Apartments for Rent | Poquoson, VA Homes for Rent
10. Smithfield
Average commute time to Virginia Beach: 45 minutes
Median home sales price: $439,000
Average rent: $1,650
Smithfield is great for: Historic charm, community events, agricultural activities
Smithfield is a city known for its historic charm and agricultural activities. The city is famous for its Smithfield ham and offers a variety of local markets and festivals celebrating its agricultural heritage. The local economy is supported by sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing and retail. Residents enjoy a blend of historic charm and modern amenities, with access to parks, museums and community events. Smithfield is also known for its efforts in preserving historic heritage and promoting local agriculture. The city’s beautiful scenery and vibrant communities make it an attractive place to live.
Interested in moving to Smithfield? Check:
Homes for Sale in Smithfield, VA | Apartments for Rent in Smithfield, VA | Homes for Rent in Smithfield, VA
method: All cities must be less than 50 miles from Virginia Beach. Median home sales and rent data come from redfin tuna and rental network During June 2024.
