Norfolk, VA
Population 235,037 · Virginia
About Norfolk, VA
Norfolk is a major city in Virginia with a population of 235,037 residents. The median household income is $64,017 per year, which is near the national average. The median age in Norfolk is 32.4 years.
Housing in Norfolk has a median home value of $271,900 and median monthly rent of $1,246. Of the 102,542 total housing units, renting is more common than owning, with 43,159 owner-occupied and 51,298 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Norfolk is 6.1% and the poverty rate is 17.3%. 32.7% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 22.9 minutes.
How Norfolk Ranks in Virginia
Cost of Living in Norfolk, VA
Compared to national averages, Norfolk has a median household income of $64,017 (15% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $271,900, which is 11% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,246 is 7% above the US average of $1,163. Within Virginia, Norfolk's income is 27% below the state average of $87,957, and home values are 17% below the state median of $327,514.
Why Live in Norfolk, VA?
Norfolk offers short commute times averaging just 22.9 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($64,017) that falls below the national average. However, as a major city, Norfolk provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Norfolk has a population of 235,037 with a median age of 32.4 years. Compare Norfolk with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Virginia.
Similar Cities Near Norfolk
Cities in Virginia with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arlington | 235,463 | $140,160 | $864,800 | Compare |
| Richmond | 227,595 | $62,671 | $328,100 | Compare |
| Chesapeake | 251,153 | $94,189 | $359,100 | 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 Norfolk
What is the population of Norfolk, VA?
The population of Norfolk, VA is 235,037 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Norfolk?
The median household income in Norfolk, VA is $64,017 per year.
What is the median home value in Norfolk?
The median home value in Norfolk, VA is $271,900.
What is the average rent in Norfolk?
The median monthly rent in Norfolk, VA is $1,246.
What is the unemployment rate in Norfolk?
The unemployment rate in Norfolk, VA is 6.1%.