Suffolk, VA
Population 96,638 · Virginia
About Suffolk, VA
Suffolk is a mid-sized city located in Virginia with a population of 96,638 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $90,089 per year, which is 20% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 38.7 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Suffolk features a median home value of $329,600, which is 35% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Suffolk in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,484, 28% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 39,651 total housing units, 70% are owner-occupied (26,127 units) and 30% are renter-occupied (11,006 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Suffolk shows an unemployment rate of 5.3%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 9.9%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Suffolk have an average one-way commute time of 29.9 minutes.
Education & Demographics
32.4% of Suffolk 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 1.5% White, 1.6% Hispanic or Latino, 1.7% Black or African American, and 1.7% Asian residents, with 4.0% of the population being foreign-born.
How Suffolk Ranks in Virginia
Cost of Living in Suffolk, VA
Compared to national averages, Suffolk has a median household income of $90,089 (20% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $329,600, which is 35% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,484 is 28% above the US average of $1,163. Within Virginia, Suffolk's income is 2% above the state average of $87,957, and home values are 1% above the state median of $327,514.
Why Live in Suffolk, VA?
Suffolk offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $90,089, well above the national average, and a low poverty rate of 9.9%, better than the national average.
Suffolk has a population of 96,638 with a median age of 38.7 years. Compare Suffolk with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Virginia.
Similar Cities Near Suffolk
Cities in Virginia with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Portsmouth | 97,299 | $58,972 | $229,400 | 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.
Compare Suffolk With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Suffolk
What is the population of Suffolk, VA?
The population of Suffolk, VA is 96,638 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in Virginia.
What is the median household income in Suffolk?
The median household income in Suffolk, VA is $90,089 per year, which is 20% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Suffolk?
The median home value in Suffolk, VA is $329,600, which is 35% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Suffolk?
The median monthly rent in Suffolk, VA is $1,484, which is 28% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Suffolk?
The unemployment rate in Suffolk, VA is 5.3%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Suffolk, VA a good place to live?
Suffolk offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 96,638 and a median age of 38.7, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Suffolk, VA?
32.4% of residents in Suffolk 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 Suffolk?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Suffolk, VA: median home value is $329,600 (35% above national), median rent is $1,484/month, and median household income is $90,089. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.7x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Suffolk?
The poverty rate in Suffolk, VA is 9.9%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Suffolk, VA?
Suffolk's population is 1.5% White, 1.6% Hispanic or Latino, 1.7% Black or African American, 1.7% Asian, and 41.5% two or more races. 4.0% of residents are foreign-born.