Chesapeake, VA
Population 251,153 · Virginia
About Chesapeake, VA
Chesapeake is a major city in Virginia with a population of 251,153 residents. The median household income is $94,189 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Chesapeake is 37.7 years.
Housing in Chesapeake has a median home value of $359,100 and median monthly rent of $1,523. Of the 95,997 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 68,140 owner-occupied and 24,221 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Chesapeake is 4.9% and the poverty rate is 8.7%. 36.4% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 25.5 minutes.
How Chesapeake Ranks in Virginia
Cost of Living in Chesapeake, VA
Compared to national averages, Chesapeake has a median household income of $94,189 (25% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $359,100, which is 47% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,523 is 31% above the US average of $1,163. Within Virginia, Chesapeake's income is 7% above the state average of $87,957, and home values are 10% above the state median of $327,514.
Why Live in Chesapeake, VA?
Chesapeake offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $94,189, well above the national average, and a well-educated community where 36.4% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and a low poverty rate of 8.7%, better than the national average.
Chesapeake has a population of 251,153 with a median age of 37.7 years. Compare Chesapeake with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Virginia.
Similar Cities Near Chesapeake
Cities in Virginia with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arlington | 235,463 | $140,160 | $864,800 | Compare |
| Norfolk | 235,037 | $64,017 | $271,900 | Compare |
| Richmond | 227,595 | $62,671 | $328,100 | Compare |
| Newport News | 184,774 | $66,718 | $243,300 | Compare |
| Alexandria | 156,788 | $113,638 | $696,800 | Compare |
| Hampton | 137,334 | $67,758 | $234,100 | Compare |
| Roanoke | 98,677 | $52,671 | $180,500 | Compare |
| Portsmouth | 97,299 | $58,972 | $229,400 | 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 Chesapeake
What is the population of Chesapeake, VA?
The population of Chesapeake, VA is 251,153 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Chesapeake?
The median household income in Chesapeake, VA is $94,189 per year.
What is the median home value in Chesapeake?
The median home value in Chesapeake, VA is $359,100.
What is the average rent in Chesapeake?
The median monthly rent in Chesapeake, VA is $1,523.
What is the unemployment rate in Chesapeake?
The unemployment rate in Chesapeake, VA is 4.9%.