Why Live in Portsmouth
Portsmouth's historic Olde Towne district showcases 18th-century architecture alongside the Elizabeth River waterfront, where residents enjoy scenic walks along the seawall. The city's maritime heritage comes alive at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum and Lightship Portsmouth Museum, both National Historic Landmarks. Families frequent the Children's Museum of Virginia for interactive exhibits, while nature lovers explore Paradise Creek Nature Park and Hoffler Creek Wildlife Preserve. The Art Deco Commodore Theatre provides a unique movie-going experience, and the Atlantic Union Bank Pavilion hosts waterfront concerts. Local dining highlights include Still Worldly Eclectic Tapas for international small plates, The Bier Garden for authentic Bavarian cuisine, and Mannino's Italian Bistro for traditional family recipes.
The housing market spans multiple price points across distinct neighborhoods. The median sale price in Portsmouth is $268,000. Churchland commands the highest median single-family home prices at $340,000, while Cradock presents more affordable options at $239,900. Olde Towne Portsmouth features condos with median prices of $155,000 for one bedroom units and $252,500 for two bedrooms.
Portsmouth's property tax rate of 1.07% sits higher than nearby Norfolk at 1.01% and Chesapeake at 0.82%. The Virginia state income tax rate is 5.75% for yearly salaries of $44,901, with a combined sales tax rate of 5.77%.
The Williams School, rated A+ by Niche, serves multiple neighborhoods including Park View and Port Norfolk. Portsmouth Catholic Regional School, rated A, provides private education across several areas including Churchland and Cavalier Manor. Western Branch High School, rated A-, serves public school students in the Cavalier Manor area.
Transportation options include the Elizabeth River Ferry to Norfolk, Hampton Roads Transit bus service, and Interstate 264 access. Virginia Beach lies 20-25 miles away, typically a 30-40 minute drive depending on traffic conditions.
Home Trends in Portsmouth, VA
On average, homes in Portsmouth, VA sell after 38 days on the market compared to the national average of 51 days. The median sale price for homes in Portsmouth, VA over the last 12 months is $268,000, up 5% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Median Sale Price
$268,000
Median Single Family Sale Price
$270,000
Median Townhouse Sale Price
$236,650
Median 2 Bedroom Sale Price
$193,500
Median 1 Bedroom Sale Price
$155,000
Average Price Per Sq Ft
$179
Number of Homes for Sale
295
Last 12 months Home Sales
1,627
Median List Price
$269,000
Median Change From 1st List Price
0%
Median Home Sale Price YoY Change
5%