Portsmouth, VA
Population 97,299 · Virginia
About Portsmouth, VA
Portsmouth is a mid-sized city in Virginia with a population of 97,299 residents. The median household income is $58,972 per year, which is near the national average. The median age in Portsmouth is 35.8 years.
Housing in Portsmouth has a median home value of $229,400 and median monthly rent of $1,266. Of the 43,233 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 22,557 owner-occupied and 17,121 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Portsmouth is 6.6% and the poverty rate is 17.6%. 23.2% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 23 minutes.
How Portsmouth Ranks in Virginia
Cost of Living in Portsmouth, VA
Compared to national averages, Portsmouth has a median household income of $58,972 (22% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $229,400, which is 6% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,266 is 9% above the US average of $1,163. Within Virginia, Portsmouth's income is 33% below the state average of $87,957, and home values are 30% below the state median of $327,514.
Why Live in Portsmouth, VA?
Portsmouth offers affordable housing with a median home value of $229,400, below the US average of $244,900, and short commute times averaging just 23 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($58,972) that falls below the national average. However, as a mid-sized city, Portsmouth provides access to a wide range of amenities and services.
Portsmouth has a population of 97,299 with a median age of 35.8 years. Compare Portsmouth with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Virginia.
Similar Cities Near Portsmouth
Cities in Virginia with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Suffolk | 96,638 | $90,089 | $329,600 | Compare |
| Roanoke | 98,677 | $52,671 | $180,500 | Compare |
| Lynchburg | 79,255 | $59,808 | $211,800 | Compare |
| Dale City | 72,793 | $113,245 | $400,100 | Compare |
| Centreville | 71,885 | $143,704 | $565,900 | Compare |
| Reston | 63,542 | $139,515 | $616,000 | Compare |
| Hampton | 137,334 | $67,758 | $234,100 | Compare |
| Harrisonburg | 51,492 | $59,752 | $278,200 | 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 Portsmouth
What is the population of Portsmouth, VA?
The population of Portsmouth, VA is 97,299 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Portsmouth?
The median household income in Portsmouth, VA is $58,972 per year.
What is the median home value in Portsmouth?
The median home value in Portsmouth, VA is $229,400.
What is the average rent in Portsmouth?
The median monthly rent in Portsmouth, VA is $1,266.
What is the unemployment rate in Portsmouth?
The unemployment rate in Portsmouth, VA is 6.6%.