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Olde Towne Portsmouth

Olde Towne Portsmouth

Neighborhood in Portsmouth, Virginia

Portsmouth County 23704

$332,706 Average Value
$178 Average Price per Sq Ft
12 Homes For Sale

A charming, historic community that celebrates its past, present and future

Olde Towne, the historic urban gem on the banks of the Elizabeth River, offers a wide range of community events, Colonial-era houses and amenities right within reach. Olde Towne dates back over 300 years, when it was settled as a Colonial port town that was integral during the American Revolution. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places today, the neighborhood is adorned with beautifully preserved historical landmarks, like Saint John’s Episcopal Church. The appeal of living in Olde Towne lies not just in its landmarks, but “its spaces that foster community and knowing that you’re a living part of the history you’re constantly experiencing,” says Martin Bayer, Second Vice President of the Olde Towne Portsmouth Civic League.

The Commodore Theatre is luxuriously restored from its 1945  style in Olde Towne Portsmouth.
The Commodore Theatre is luxuriously restored from its 1945 style in Olde Towne Portsmouth.
Two visitors checking out the cannons outside The Naval Museum in Olde Towne Portsmouth.
Two visitors checking out the cannons outside The Naval Museum in Olde Towne Portsmouth.
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Colonial-era homes and contemporary construction on the Elizabeth River

The civic league overlooks the beautification of Olde Towne. Recent renovations to the district have drastically improved the flooding the neighborhood previously faced, maintaining the historical value of the community. There are simple, stately Colonial and Neoclassical houses, and ornate, colorful Victorian homes. Established homes tend to price between $300,000 and $600,000. Closer to the water, buyers will also find high-rise condos with stunning views of the river, costing between $200,000 and $400,000. “The views are spectacular here,” says lifelong Portsmouth resident Michael Gore. “You can see across the water to the Norfolk skyline, and you get a great view of the lights there during the holidays.”

Large welcoming stoops are characteristic of homes in Olde Towne Portsmouth, Virginia.
Large welcoming stoops are characteristic of homes in Olde Towne Portsmouth, Virginia.
Newly built pickleball courts at Admiral's Landing in Olde Towne Portsmouth, Virginia.
Newly built pickleball courts at Admiral's Landing in Olde Towne Portsmouth, Virginia.
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A vibrant downtown with ferry access to Norfolk’s Waterside Entertainment District

In Olde Towne, there are so many restaurants, museums and events that are right within walking distance for residents. “There’s Fish & Slips in the marina,” Gore says. “It’s one of my favorites for dinner, especially in the summer—you can sit right out on the water.” Gore also notes other favorites, like The Bier Garden, a family-owned Bavarian restaurant and Thai Basil, a favorite for Thai curries and noodle dishes. Residents can take kids to the longstanding Children’s Museum of Virginia or catch a movie at the art-deco-style Commodore Theater. Another favorite for residents is the Elizabeth River Ferry, which is convenient for those who don’t want to deal with Hampton Roads’ notorious traffic. “You can get on the ferry and get to Waterside or Harbor Park Stadium. I like to go over to Waterside at least 2 days a week,” Gore says.

Olde Towne Portsmouth has a ferry across the river to Norfolk every hour.
Olde Towne Portsmouth has a ferry across the river to Norfolk every hour.
A daily water Ferry that runs to downtown Norfolk from Olde Towne Portsmouth, Virginia.
A daily water Ferry that runs to downtown Norfolk from Olde Towne Portsmouth, Virginia.
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Local events get Olde Towne neighbors together

Both Bayer and Gore note that the neighborhood is always throwing events and bringing together the community. The Olde Towne Farmers Market on Saturdays has live music, food vendors, artisan crafts and of course, fresh produce. “In the summertime, there are jazz musicians that play in the courtyard on Thursdays, and there’s always different people playing music during the week,” Gore says.

Catch a concert at the Atlantic Union Bank Pavilion in Olde Towne Portsmouth.
Catch a concert at the Atlantic Union Bank Pavilion in Olde Towne Portsmouth.
Visit the retired Portsmouth Lightship and see a piece of naval history.
Visit the retired Portsmouth Lightship and see a piece of naval history.
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Students attend Portsmouth Public Schools

Education begins at either public Parkview Elementary or private, faith-based Court Street Academy, both of which have a C grade on Niche. Students then attend Churchland Middle School, which has an B grade. High schoolers attend I.C. Norcom, which has a C-minus grade, but a B grade for its teachers. High school students can participate in various magnet programs across the district, including the Fine and Performing Arts Academy at nearby Churchland High School.

Park View Elementary School near Olde Towne Portsmouth, Virginia is rated a C from Niche.
Park View Elementary School near Olde Towne Portsmouth, Virginia is rated a C from Niche.
The Churchland Middle School was built in 1968 near Olde Towne Portsmouth, Virginia.
The Churchland Middle School was built in 1968 near Olde Towne Portsmouth, Virginia.
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Residents enjoy local parks and walks along the seawall

There are plenty of ways to get outside in Olde Towne. “Red Lion Square is always filled with kids playing on the playground and neighbors hanging out,” Bayer says. The recently renovated seawall along the Crawford Bay Trail is another favorite for walking, jogging and watching fireworks on the Fourth of July. Portsmouth City Park is less than 5 miles away and is full of activities for the whole family, including golfing, fishing, tennis and kayaking. There’s also a large playground for kids and shady picnic areas.

Bring the little ones to Red Lion Square playground to enjoy the outdoors in Portsmouth.
Bring the little ones to Red Lion Square playground to enjoy the outdoors in Portsmouth.
Walk along the seawall at Craford Bay in Olde Towne Portsmouth, Virginia.
Walk along the seawall at Craford Bay in Olde Towne Portsmouth, Virginia.
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An easy commute to the rest of Hampton Roads

Residents are just a minutes from basic necessities. There is a Food Lion just two miles away, and a Walmart and Kroger 3 miles away on Frederick Boulevard. For medical necessities, the Naval Hospital of Portsmouth is in the neighborhood, and Sentara Norfolk General is about 6 miles away. Residents can get to the hospital and other Norfolk amenities via the Downtown Tunnel or Midtown Tunnel. The Downtown Tunnel is connected to Interstate 264, which connects residents to other areas like Chesapeake and Virginia Beach. When residents want to travel beyond the area, Norfolk International Airport is about 10 miles away. Offering both an abundance of community amenities and easy access to the rest of Hampton Roads, Olde Towne offers both historic charm and modern convenience.

A daily water Ferry that runs to downtown Norfolk from Olde Towne Portsmouth, Virginia.
A daily water Ferry that runs to downtown Norfolk from Olde Towne Portsmouth, Virginia.
There are several options for public transportation in Olde Towne Portsmouth, Virginia.
There are several options for public transportation in Olde Towne Portsmouth, Virginia.
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Micaela Green
Written By
Micaela Green
David Schwartz
Photography Contributed By
David Schwartz
Mark Tilley
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Mark Tilley

Agents Specializing in this Area

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Schools

Source:
GreatSchools: The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process. View GreatSchools Rating Methodology

Interested in learning more about homes in this area? Reach out to Kimberly Plourde, an experienced agent in this neighborhood.

Parks in this Area

Transit

Airport

Norfolk International

19 min drive

Bus

Effingham & Queen

Bus

High & Court

Bus

Effingham & Firehouse

Bus

High & Washington

Crime and Safety

1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime Olde Towne Portsmouth US
Homicide 5 4
Sexual Assault 8 4
Assault with Weapon 6 4
Robbery 6 4
Burglary 8 4
Motor Vehicle Theft 7 4
Larceny 9 4
Crime Score 8 4

Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com

Demographics and Home Trends

Home Trends

Median Price (12 Mo)
$310,000
Median Single Family Price
$380,000
Median Townhouse Price
$262,500
Median 2 Bedroom Price
$266,750
Median 1 Bedroom Price
$143,750
Average Price Per Sq Ft
$178
Number of Homes for Sale
12
Last 12 months Home Sales
40
Months of Supply
3.60
Median List Price
$314,000
Median Discount From 1st List Price
0%
Median Home Sale Price YoY Change
25%

Home Facts

Number of Homes in Neighborhood
426
Median Year Built
1965
Avg. Single Family Home Size Sq Ft
2,895
Significantly above the national average
1,935
Average Townhouse Size Sq Ft
1,689
Average 2 Bedroom Size Sq Ft
1,175
Average 1 Bedroom Size Sq Ft
781
Median Lot Size Sq Ft
3,484

Open Houses

  • Saturday, Apr 26
    12 - 3pm

    314 Dinwiddie St, Portsmouth, VA 23704

    $275,000

    • 3 Beds
    • 1.5 Baths
    • 1,798 Sq Ft
    • 314 Dinwiddie St
    • New 17 days ago

    Lovely modern touches grace this Circa 1910 Townhome! Gorgeous kitchen features granite countertops, COREtex flooring & stainless steel appliances. Soaring ceilings, gleaming hardwoods & neutral paint. New boiler 2024. Gentle breezes and river views from your grand front porch. Enjoy all that this historic, waterfront, community has to offer. From delectable dining to grabbing a pint with friends

    Agent Photo
    Tammy Bunch
    Bunch Real Estate Inc.
    (757) 720-2794
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  • Sunday, Apr 27
    12 - 2pm

    420 Glasgow St, Portsmouth, VA 23704

    $265,000

    • 3 Beds
    • 1.5 Baths
    • 1,443 Sq Ft
    • 420 Glasgow St
    • New 12 days ago

    This charming condo presents a wonderful combination of cozy, comfort, & convenient living. Featuring a beautifully maintained fenced backyard, that serves as a private oasis for relaxation. The condo is one of two units in a well-maintained duplex, showcasing historic character with modern updates. Includes two bedrooms & a bonus room upstairs, along with a bedroom or office on the main floor.

    Agent Photo
    Tammy Bunch
    Bunch Real Estate Inc.
    (757) 960-7163
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  • Saturday, Apr 26
    12 - 2pm

    531 Hampton Place, Portsmouth, VA 23704

    $380,000

    • 3 Beds
    • 2.5 Baths
    • 2,245 Sq Ft
    • 531 Hampton Place

    Stunning & spacious 3br/2.5bth home tastefully restored in Olde Towne. Original charm throughout with gleaming hardwood floors, floor-to-ceiling windows, pocket doors, and crown molding. Renovated, open kitchen boasts quartzite counters, quality cabinets, stainless steel appliances, abundance of storage, and lots of space for cooking/entertaining. Large primary boasts walk-in closet, ensuite

    Colleen Kovach Own Real Estate LLC

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Distribution of Home Values

Source: Public Records

Homes for Sale

Homes for Rent

Interested in learning more about homes in this area? Reach out to Kimberly Plourde, an experienced agent in this neighborhood.

Average Home Value




Source: Public Records

Property Mix - Square Feet

This Neighborhood Has More Renters

Demographics

Total Population
2,362
Median Age
39
Population Density
17 ppl/acre
Population under 18
16.5%
Below the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
20.4%
On par with the national average
19.1%

Finances

Median Household Income
$53,695
Significantly below the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$83,235

Education and Workforce

High School Graduates
94.3%
Above the national average
89.1%
College Graduates
38.9%
Advanced Degrees
24.8%
Above the national average
13.3%
% Population in Labor Force
61.8%

Weather

Annual Precipitation
45''
Average Winter Low Temperature
34°F
Average Summer High Temperature
88°F
Annual Snowfall
7''

Area Factors

Bikeable

Bike Score®

55 / 100

Very Walkable

Walk Score®

83 / 100

Good Transit

Transit Score®

56 / 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score

Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.

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Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
NEIGHBORHOOD
Olde Towne Portsmouth