Living in Chesapeake VA’s multiple waterways and woods is like living in a fairytale setting. You’ll find yourself surrounded by boats, water activities, and the suburban atmosphere daily. The independent city’s rich history within the Revolutionary and Civil War has made its landmark within the United States makes it a go-to spot for history tourists as well.
Should you plan on moving to Chesapeake, Virginia, you can expect tourists, water activities, lush trees, and a wide variety of housing options to choose from.
Off Load Moving has provided assistance to multiple families moving to Chesapeake, Hampton Roads, and its surrounding metropolitan area. Call us at (757) 749-7212 for a free estimate on your upcoming move today!
Is Chesapeake VA a Good Place to Live?
Yes. The city of Chesapeake is a good place to live. The benefits of living in Chesapeake include low cost of living, family-oriented neighborhoods, and proximity to major city hubs without sacrificing access to outdoor activities.
Chesapeake boasts 3,480 acres of park space, with most hosting play structures and paved walking paths; there are 300 ponds and two natural lakes in Chesapeake VA, ideal for nature lovers, boaters, and families alike.
Where Is Chesapeake?
Chesapeake, Virginia, is located north of the North Carolina border, east of the Atlantic Ocean, and south of Norfolk. It’s an independent city, meaning it’s not located within a county.
Chesapeake is positioned in the middle of other major cities providing lots of options for travel and adventures.
How far is Chesapeake to Norfolk and other neighbouring cities:
- Chesapeake to Norfolk: 6.3 miles
- Chesapeake to Virginia Beach: 22.8 miles
- Chesapeake to Suffolk: 21.6 miles
The best part of living in Chesapeake VA is having access to the Atlantic; the top beaches near Chesapeake VA are Chesapeake Beach and Virginia Beach OceanFront.
Public Transportation
People living in Chesapeake VA have ample transportation options with access to Williamsburg, Hampton, and other major cities. Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) connects Chesapeake to Norfolk and Virginia Beach, boasting more than seven routes. Residents can use Norfolk’s The Tide Light Rail, which runs over 7 miles along the Elizabeth River.
Although its public transportation is limited compared to nearby cities, plans are underway to expand the public transit infrastructure, potentially introducing its own bus transportation (Bus Rapid Transit and Express Bus Transit) and a light rail extension.
Chesapeake VA Population & Demographics
The population of Chesapeake is 254,997, according to the most recent US census. The median household income is above the national average, at $89,265, and only 11.8% of its population is living in poverty.
- Median age: 39.1
- 61% of the Chesapeake population is 18 to 65 years old.
- 34.1% have a four-year degree or higher.
- 94% are high school graduates.
- Foreign-born population: 6.4%
- Veteran population: 17.9%.
- 63% of the population is married.
What Is the Racial Makeup of Chesapeake?
The Chesapeake VA racial demographics are diverse, with 53% of people living in Chesapeake VA, being White, 29% Black or African American, 5% two or more races, 8% Hispanic or Latino, and 4% are Asian. Since it’s located on Chesapeake Bay, after the post-emancipation era, newly freed Black and African American individuals were drawn to the region’s maritime industries, such as oystering, boatbuilding, and seafood processing.
Political Demographics
Chesapeake has 186,287 registered voters, 52.2% of whom supported the Democratic candidate in the last election.
Is Chesapeake Safe?
Chesapeake has a crime rate that’s slightly lower than the state and country averages.
| Location | Property Crime per 100,000 people | Violent Crime per 100,000 people | Total Crime Rate per 100,000 people |
| Chesapeake | 1,744 | 339 | 2,084 |
| State of Virginia | 1,570 | 218 | 1,788 |
| National Rate | 1,760 | 359 | 2,119 |
Although Chesapeake has higher violent and property crime rates than the state and country, these statistics can sometimes be skewed due to reporting inaccuracies. Additionally, the FBI crime rate statistics encompass the entire city and are distributed across the entire population, meaning that one or two high-crime areas can significantly impact the city’s overall crime rate.
For a more detailed report, check out Chesapeake’s crime map, which shows you which crimes are being reported in real time within specific areas.
You can rest easy when living in Chesapeake VA, knowing the Chesapeake Police Department and officials have initiatives in place to crack down on violent crime.
Cost of Living in Chesapeake VA
Chesapeake has a low low costs of living and affordable property taxes compared to the rest of the United States. The Economic Research Institute reports that Chesapeake has a Cost of Living Index (COLI) of 96, making it 4% more affordable to live in than the average US city. According to the Economic Policy Institute (EPI), a family of four can live comfortably in Chesapeake with a household income of 117,464.
Typical living expenses:
- Inexpensive restaurant meal: $15.50
- Gallon of milk: $3.71
- Loaf of white bread: $4.12
- Dozen eggs: $3.36
- Pound of chicken fillets: $3.66
- Average Chesapeake utilities per month: $226.91
Source: Numbeo
Property taxes in Chesapeake are among the most affordable in the country. According to the city’s website, Chesapeake’s real estate tax rate is $1.01 per $100 of assessed value. The effective property tax rate in Chesapeake is about 0.92%, which is lower than the national median of 1.02%
According to the Living Wage Calculator, the living wage for one adult with zero children living in Chesapeake VA is $33.23. Two adults, both working, and two children can live on $27.78.
Chesapeake Real Estate Market Overview
The housing market in Chesapeake is very competitive, with homes for sale in Chesapeake VA, selling within a median of 26 days, with 40.4% selling above their listing price. However, 1.83% of homes experience price drops before being sold. The median home price in Chesapeake is $418,000.
Renting in Chesapeake isn’t as common, with a renter population of 28%. According to RentCafe, the average monthly rent in Chesapeake is $1,819.
If you’ve chosen your new home in Chesapeake, call (757) 749-7212 for Off Load Moving’s dependable movers to assist you. Off Load Moving serves Hampton Roads, Chesapeake, and the greater Hampton Roads metropolitan area.
Chesapeake Neighborhoods
The city of Chesapeake Virginia hosts six boroughs: South Norfolk, Butts Road, Deep Creek, Pleasant Grove, Western Branch, and Washington. Each of these boroughs has its own unique neighborhoods and communities to choose from.
Camelot Neighborhood Chesapeake VA
Living in Chesapeake VA is great regardless of where you end up, but Camelot is a standout option. Camelot is a family-friendly neighborhood in Chesapeake that hosts a park, an elementary school, and a community center. Homes for sale in Camelot are priced at around $500,000.
Edinburgh – New Construction
The homes for sale in Edinburgh are few and far between and are typically priced between $700,000 and $1 million, making it a more affluent area to call home. A major pro to buying here is that all properties are new construction, ensuring a secure investment.
Ravenna – Great Location
Located off of Mt. Pleasant Rd, Ravenna is the ideal neighborhood if you like to keep busy. Mt. Pleasant High School is directly across the street, and there is also a robust shopping center half a mile west, hosting restaurants like Bad Habits and Hotrodders Cafe.
Honorable Mentions
- Riverwalk – Southwest of Greenbrier West near RiverWalk Parkway
- Creekwood – Homes are situated around a large pond near Bryant Farms Park
- Homestead – Located in Deep Creek West with proximity to the 664
Chesapeake Weather
The Chesapeake climate is humid subtropical, or “Cfa” according to the Köppen Climate Classification system. You will experience all four seasons when living in Chesapeake VA; the summers are hot and humid, whereas the winters are wet and cold. Temperatures range from 34°F to 88°F. The rainiest month is August, with a 45% chance of rain on any given day, and the snowiest month is February, with an average snowfall of 2 inches.
The best times to visit Chesapeake are mid-to-late May and from late August to mid-October. The late spring and early summer months offer cool temperatures with minimal rainfall, while the fall provides picturesque foliage and pleasant temperatures.
Is Chesapeake, VA In a Flood Zone?
34.9% of all Chesapeake properties are at risk of flooding within the next 30 years. The best way to determine if your future home is in a flood zone is by utilizing the city’s flood management map.
Things to Do in Chesapeake VA
Coastal Virginia offers a plethora of outdoor activities, parks, lakes, and stunning natural beauty. You’ll never run out of things to do here, from its fresh and salt waterways, various community events, and 88 parks.
Chesapeake Arboretum
The Chesapeake Arboretum features 45 acres of forested trails, gardens, and educational facilities.
624 Oak Grove Rd, Chesapeake, VA 23320, (757) 382-6411
Chesapeake Planetarium
The city of Chesapeake Planetarium offers educational programs about the planet to residents of Chesapeake, schools, and private educational institutions.
310 Shea Dr, Chesapeake, VA 23322, (757) 382-6200
Great Bridge Battlefield & Waterways History Foundation
Experience the region’s rich history at the Great Bridge Battlefield & Waterways Foundation. You can explore what it was like to live in Chesapeake 100 years ago and learn how it has developed into the great city it is today.
1775 Historic Way, Chesapeake, VA 23320, (757) 482-4480
Chesapeake Parks
There are countless parks to visit when living in Chesapeake VA; here are some of the best.
- Northwest River Park – One of the many free things to do in Chesapeake is Northwest River Park. There are options for fishing, boating, and camping.
- Chesapeake City Park – This expansive park in Chesapeake features open spaces, a dog park, a large playground, basketball courts, and picnic areas.
- Fun Forest Playground – An entirely wooden playground located within Chesapeake City Park and ideal for anyone with children.
- Elizabeth River Park – Playgrounds, picnicking areas, a dog park, a fishing dock, and a boat ramp.
Trails
- Indian River Park South Side – 91 acres of forest with various scenic trails to hike
- Oak Grove Lake Park – 1.5 miles of walking paths around a lake
- Portsmouth Ditch TrailHead – Hiking area along the Great Dismal Swamp Canal
Waterways
Many people living in Chesapeake VA have boats, enjoy kayaking, or simply appreciate its many waterways from land. Here are a few notable bodies of water to check out:
- Indian River
- Atlantic Ocean
- Lake Drummond
- Dismal Swamp anal
- Chesapeake Bay
- Intracoastal Waterway
Community Events
One way to meet new people after moving to Chesapeake VA is by attending events. The city’s most notable ones are the Virginia Arts Festival, the Chesapeake Wine Festival, and the Chesapeake Jubilee. Check the community special events calendar to stay up-to-date on what’s happening in your new city.
Restaurants Chesapeake VA
Chesapeake is home to a vibrant dining scene with a variety of chain restaurants and fine dining options. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood or a home-cooked meal, the restaurants in Chesapeake VA offer a range of options.
Daikichi Japanese Bistro
One of the best things about living in Chesapeake VA is the delicious Japanese Bistro, Daikichi. Here you will find delicious dishes like hibachi, sushi, dumplings, crab rangoon, and so much more.
1400 Battlefield Blvd N, Chesapeake, VA 23320, (757) 549-0200
Lockside Bar and Grill
If you’re looking for waterfront dining in Chesapeake, Lockside Bar and Grill is the place to be. They serve traditional seafood dishes like flounder, scallops, and clam chowder. The ambiance is great, and the expansive deck outside offers ample space options.
200 Battlefield Blvd N Ste 1, Chesapeake, VA 23320, (757) 410-5999
Pirate’s Cove Restaurant
Pirate’s Cove is renowned as one of the top restaurants in Chesapeake, thanks to its wide range of local fish options, friendly service, and affordable prices. It’s a family-friendly spot, perfect for lunch or dinner.
109 J/K, 109 Gainsborough Square, Chesapeake, VA 23320, (757) 549-7272
Living in Chesapeake VA means you have plenty of restaurants to choose from!
Jobs in Chesapeake VA
The job market in Chesapeake VA expands continuously through multiple grants funded by the government, the Foreign Trade Zone act, and tax exemptions. Thanks to this you won’t have trouble looking for Chesapeake jobs that match your resume. The unemployment rate here is 3.3%, which is lower than the national average of 4.2%.
Here are the city’s major employers:
- Chesapeake City Public Schools Employment
- The City of Chesapeake Jobs
- Chesapeake Regional Medical Center
- Walmart
- Dollar Tree
- Sentara Healthcare
- Cox Communications
A main contributor to the city’s economic stimulation is its proximity to the Port of Virginia, one of the busiest ports on the East Coast. There are numerous manufacturing companies in Chesapeake, including Manufacturing & Design Technology Inc., Nitto, Inc., and Amazon distribution and processing centers. Chesapeake Bay Foundation and Expand Energy are two more great companies to consider.
Chesapeake Schools
K-12 public school students living in Chesapeake VA are served by Chesapeake Public Schools (CPS). There are 40,000 students across 48 schools and centers within the district, providing robust options for your child.
The district offers unique educational programs, such as Advanced Placement courses and specialized programs like the STEM Academy at Grassfield High School, while maintaining a favorable student-to-teacher ratio of 15:1. Some schools in CPS are Title I institutions that receive additional federal support to enhance educational outcomes. Beyond academics, the district offers prime extracurricular programs in arts and athletics, with schools like Oscar Smith High School achieving state championships in football.
Public Schools
There are nine primary schools, 11 elementary schools, eight intermediate schools, 10 middle schools, and seven high schools in the district. A few notable schools include:
- Greenbrier Middle School
- Grassfield High School
- Greenbrier Primary School
- Oscar Smith High School
Private
Are there good private schools when living in Chesapeake, VA? Private schools in Chesapeake include Veritas Collegiate Academy, Atlantic Shores Christian School, StoneBridge School, and Chesapeake Montessori School.
Chesapeake Statistics & Information
- County: Independent city
- Area: 350.95 square miles
- Zip code: 23320-23328
- Area code: 757 and 948
- Elevation: 12.2 feet
- Time zone: Eastern Time Zone (UTC-5 and -4)
- Closest airport to Chesapeake VA: Norfolk International Airport (ORF) is 15.6 miles from Chesapeake
Frequently Asked Questions About Living in Chesapeake
What Is The Biggest Problem In The Chesapeake Bay?
The excess of sediment pollution (specifically nitrogen and phosphorus) from stormwater, wastewater, and other sources is the main problem in Chesapeake Bay. There are low-oxygen dead zones that harm marine life, caused by these pollutants, that cloud the water and feed algae blooms.
Are There Gators In The Chesapeake Bay?
No. Alligators are not commonly found in Chesapeake Bay. Instead, it is more common (yet still rare) to find gators as released pets or having escaped. The Great Dismal Swamp near Chesapeake has had a few sightings, but alligators are so unusual that they aren’t a wildlife concern.
Does Chesapeake, VA Get Snow?
Yes. Chesapeake Virginia gets snow. However, the snow itself is inconsistent and light compared to other parts of Virginia. Chesapeake experiences a short snowy season from December to early March, with February being the snowiest.
What Are Winters Like In Chesapeake, VA?
Winters in Chesapeake are cool, damp, and milder compared to the inland parts of Virginia. Temperatures can go up to 54°F and as low as 37°F. While freezing nights can occur, it is uncommon closer to the coastal area. Rain is more frequent and a mix of snow and rain is possible.
Is Chesapeake, VA A Wealthy Area?
Chesapeake VA is considered more of an upper-middle-income city with varied types of wealth separated by neighborhoods. Higher home values can be seen within Great Bridge, Hickory, and Greenbrier. Meanwhile, more affordable options can be found nearby Virginia Beach waterfront neighborhoods.
Map of Chesapeake VA
Explore more about living in Chesapeake VA, with this map of Chesapeake.
A Stress Free Moving Experience to Chesapeake VA Is Just One Call Away
Beginning your new life in Chesapeake should start with a reliable team of movers that assist you during your transition. Settle all your moving concerns with Off Load Moving’s crew of professional moving teams so that you can quickly experience the best of Chesapeake living.
If you’re ready to call Chesapeake, Virginia, home, call the best Chesapeake movers, Off Load Moving, at (757) 749-7212 for a free estimate.
