Newport News, VA
Population 184,774 · Virginia
About Newport News, VA
Newport News is a major city located in Virginia with a population of 184,774 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $66,718 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 34.2 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Newport News features a median home value of $243,300, which is 1% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Newport News in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,285, 10% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 81,850 total housing units, 48% are owner-occupied (36,452 units) and 52% are renter-occupied (39,346 units). The higher proportion of renters may reflect a transient population, younger demographics, or high housing costs relative to income.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Newport News shows an unemployment rate of 5.9%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 15.1%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Newport News have an average one-way commute time of 23.2 minutes.
Education & Demographics
29.1% of Newport News residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 4.1% White, 1.2% Hispanic or Latino, 3.2% Black or African American, and 2.8% Asian residents, with 8.1% of the population being foreign-born.
How Newport News Ranks in Virginia
Cost of Living in Newport News, VA
Compared to national averages, Newport News has a median household income of $66,718 (11% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $243,300, which is 1% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,285 is 10% above the US average of $1,163. Within Virginia, Newport News's income is 24% below the state average of $87,957, and home values are 26% below the state median of $327,514.
Why Live in Newport News, VA?
Newport News offers affordable housing with a median home value of $243,300, below the US average of $244,900, and short commute times averaging just 23.2 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($66,718) that falls below the national average. However, as a major city, Newport News provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Newport News has a population of 184,774 with a median age of 34.2 years. Compare Newport News with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Virginia.
Similar Cities Near Newport News
Cities in Virginia with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alexandria | 156,788 | $113,638 | $696,800 | Compare |
| Richmond | 227,595 | $62,671 | $328,100 | Compare |
| Hampton | 137,334 | $67,758 | $234,100 | Compare |
| Norfolk | 235,037 | $64,017 | $271,900 | Compare |
| Arlington | 235,463 | $140,160 | $864,800 | Compare |
| Chesapeake | 251,153 | $94,189 | $359,100 | 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.
Compare Newport News With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Newport News
What is the population of Newport News, VA?
The population of Newport News, VA is 184,774 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a major city in Virginia.
What is the median household income in Newport News?
The median household income in Newport News, VA is $66,718 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Newport News?
The median home value in Newport News, VA is $243,300, which is 1% below the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Newport News?
The median monthly rent in Newport News, VA is $1,285, which is 10% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Newport News?
The unemployment rate in Newport News, VA is 5.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Newport News, VA a good place to live?
Newport News offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 184,774 and a median age of 34.2, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Newport News, VA?
29.1% of residents in Newport News aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Newport News?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Newport News, VA: median home value is $243,300 (1% below national), median rent is $1,285/month, and median household income is $66,718. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.6x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Newport News?
The poverty rate in Newport News, VA is 15.1%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Newport News, VA?
Newport News's population is 4.1% White, 1.2% Hispanic or Latino, 3.2% Black or African American, 2.8% Asian, and 40.4% two or more races. 8.1% of residents are foreign-born.