Moving to Hampton Roads in 2025? The Ultimate Relocation Guide to Neighborhoods, Jobs, and Lifestyle
Relocating to a new city is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming especially if you’re not sure which neighborhoods fit your lifestyle, how far your commute will be, or what makes each corner of the region unique. If Hampton Roads, Virginia, is on your radar, you’re in the right place.
As a local real estate professional, I help newcomers settle in with confidence, whether they’re moving for work, military service, or simply for a fresh start by the coast. Here’s everything you need to know before calling Hampton Roads home.
Why Hampton Roads?
Hampton Roads is a large coastal region in southeastern Virginia known for its unique geography shaped by water. It sits where the Chesapeake Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean and is defined by the natural harbor formed by the James, Nansemond, and Elizabeth Rivers.
The area includes several cities such as Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake, Portsmouth, Suffolk, Newport News, and Hampton along with smaller communities. Because of its extensive waterways, deep ports, and access to open sea, Hampton Roads is one of the world’s largest natural harbors and an important hub for shipping, military installations, and tourism. Its mix of rivers, beaches, and wetlands gives the region a distinct coastal character.
Highlights include:
🌊 Miles of beaches along the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic Ocean.
🏙️ A strong job market supported by military bases, shipbuilding, healthcare, and technology.
🏡 Diverse housing options from waterfront condos to family-friendly suburbs.
🎭 A vibrant lifestyle with festivals, arts, and a bustling year coastal community
Cost of Living
Compared to many East Coast cities, Hampton Roads offers a balanced cost of living. Housing remains relatively affordable, especially in Chesapeake, Suffolk, and Newport News, while Virginia Beach and Norfolk attract those seeking a more urban, coastal vibe.
✨ To provide a clearer comparison, here’s a snapshot of the current real estate tax rates across the region:
Virginia Beach: $1.03 per $100 of assessed value
Norfolk: $1.23 per $100 of assessed value
Chesapeake: $1.01 per $100 of assessed value
Suffolk: $1.07 – $1.31 per $100 of assessed value (depending on the area)
Portsmouth: $1.30 per $100 of assessed value
Hampton: $1.15 per $100 of assessed value
Newport News: $1.18 per $100 of assessed value
💡 Pro tip: These rates can make a real difference in your monthly payment, so it’s worth weighing property taxes alongside home prices when comparing areas.
Jobs and Commutes
Hampton Roads is anchored by some of the country’s largest naval and military installations, but it’s also home to growing industries in healthcare, education, shipbuilding, aerospace, and technology. Major employers include Sentara Healthcare, Huntington Ingalls Industries, Old Dominion University, and multiple defense contractors.
Traffic can vary depending on bridge-tunnel crossings, so it’s worth considering commute times when choosing your new home.
Lifestyle & Things to Do
Living here means easy access to:
Relax on miles of sandy beaches perfect for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing
Explore coastal waterways by boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, or fishing
Hike and bike scenic trails in local parks and nature preserves
Visit cultural landmarks including museums, theaters, and historic sites
Experience the world-renowned glass collection at the Chrysler Museum of Art and attend Glass After Dark events
Attend major annual festivals such as the Virginia Arts Festival, Harborfest, and Neptune Festival
Discover local farmers markets offering fresh produce, artisanal goods, and crafts
Ride the ferry from Norfolk to enjoy a Virginia Tide game or just take in the waterfront views
Explore food tours, wine tastings, and local breweries and distilleries
Enjoy live music, food trucks, and community gatherings throughout the year
Savor local dining, from fresh seafood on the waterfront to farm-to-table restaurants
Shop at unique boutiques, coastal markets, and large shopping centers some of my favorite are in the Hilltop section of Virginia Beach
Discover attractions like aquariums, zoos, and theme parks nearby
Take part in water sports like sailing, jet skiing, and parasailing and boating clubs through out the area.
Unwind with the laid-back coastal lifestyle while still enjoying city conveniences