Cape Charles, VA
Population 1,278 · Virginia
About Cape Charles, VA
Cape Charles is a small community in Virginia with a population of 1,278 residents. The median household income is $51,250 per year, which is near the national average. The median age in Cape Charles is 55.6 years.
Housing in Cape Charles has a median home value of $589,000 and median monthly rent of $840. Of the 1,162 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 411 owner-occupied and 268 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Cape Charles is 7.9% and the poverty rate is 15.0%. 57.9% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 16.8 minutes.
Cost of Living in Cape Charles, VA
Compared to national averages, Cape Charles has a median household income of $51,250 (32% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $589,000, which is 141% above the national median. Monthly rent at $840 is 28% below the US average of $1,163. Within Virginia, Cape Charles's income is 42% below the state average of $87,957, and home values are 80% above the state median of $327,514.
Why Live in Cape Charles, VA?
Cape Charles offers rent that’s lower than the national average at $840/month, and a well-educated community where 57.9% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and short commute times averaging just 16.8 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($51,250) that falls below the national average, and a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $589,000. However, Cape Charles’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Cape Charles has a population of 1,278 with a median age of 55.6 years. Compare Cape Charles with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Virginia.
Similar Cities Near Cape Charles
Cities in Virginia with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rustburg | 1,276 | $70,771 | $238,900 | Compare |
| Brookneal | 1,275 | $45,909 | $115,000 | Compare |
| Gretna | 1,275 | $36,023 | $140,900 | Compare |
| Buchanan | 1,271 | $52,474 | $201,900 | Compare |
| Jonesville | 1,290 | $17,716 | $122,500 | Compare |
| Goochland | 1,301 | $0 | $494,100 | Compare |
| Glasgow | 1,253 | $50,625 | $117,100 | Compare |
| Penhook | 1,253 | $99,176 | $476,500 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Virginia
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Cape Charles
What is the population of Cape Charles, VA?
The population of Cape Charles, VA is 1,278 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Cape Charles?
The median household income in Cape Charles, VA is $51,250 per year.
What is the median home value in Cape Charles?
The median home value in Cape Charles, VA is $589,000.
What is the average rent in Cape Charles?
The median monthly rent in Cape Charles, VA is $840.
What is the unemployment rate in Cape Charles?
The unemployment rate in Cape Charles, VA is 7.9%.