If you’re moving to Hampton, you’re heading to one of the oldest — and most fascinating — cities in the United States. Hampton is known as “The Birthplace of America’s Space Program” and blends deep colonial history with coastal living, military heritage, and modern innovation. Living in Hampton VA means enjoying waterfront neighborhoods, maritime culture, and easy access to the greater Hampton Roads region, including Norfolk, Virginia Beach, Newport News, and Chesapeake.
Located along the James River and founded in 1610, Hampton is one of the country’s first East Coast English settlements and home to landmark institutions such as NASA’s Langley Research Center and Langley Air Force Base. Today, the city offers a welcoming and affordable coastal lifestyle, with museums, beaches, nature preserves, and a growing culinary scene that appeals to families, young professionals, and retirees alike.
Whether you’re relocating for military orders, education, coastal living, or new job opportunities, moving to Hampton VA offers a mix of history, diversity, maritime beauty, and everyday convenience that makes it one of the most distinctive cities in coastal Virginia.
Is Hampton a Good Place to Live?
Yes — Hampton VA is a good place to live, especially for those seeking an affordable coastal city with strong military and research employers. Living in Hampton VA means access to Chesapeake Bay beaches, a below-average cost of living, and major job centers such as Langley Air Force Base and NASA Langley Research Center. The city also offers family-friendly neighborhoods, a revitalized waterfront, and convenient commuting to Norfolk, Newport News, and other Hampton Roads communities.
Where Is Hampton VA?
Hampton is an independent city in southeastern Virginia, located on the Virginia Peninsula along the Chesapeake Bay. It sits between Norfolk and Newport News and is part of the larger Hampton Roads metro area. Hampton is about 18 miles from downtown Norfolk and roughly 30 miles from the Virginia Beach oceanfront. The city is bordered by the Hampton River, Back River, and several inlets, giving residents easy access to waterfront recreation. Hampton, Virginia is not part of any county — like many Virginia cities, it functions as its own municipality.
Hampton Virginia Population & Demographics
What is the population of Hampton? According to the 2020 U.S. Census, 137,148 people live in Hampton, VA. As one of the core cities of the Hampton Roads region, Hampton, Virginia has maintained steady, balanced growth while preserving its maritime heritage and military ties. Living in Hampton VA offers a diverse, historically rich community with strong connections to nearby Newport News, Norfolk, and Virginia Beach’s oceanfront.
Hampton, Virginia trends younger than many coastal cities, with a median age of 37.3. The population includes military families stationed at Joint Base Langley–Eustis, students, young professionals in the aerospace and tech sectors, and long-term homeowners. Education levels are moderate: 28.8% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. The median household income is $69,277, and 7% of residents are foreign-born, contributing to a culturally varied and dynamic population.
Hampton, Virginia has produced or shaped many nationally recognized figures, but among the most notable are Booker T. Washington, an influential educator and founder of Tuskegee Institute; Mary Jackson, a pioneering NASA engineer featured in Hidden Figures; and Allen Iverson, NBA Hall of Famer.
Hampton, VA demographics:
- Sex: Approximately 53% women, 47% men
- Median age: 37.3
- Race & ethnicity (2020 Census):
- White: 37.3%
- Black or African American: 49.5%
- Asian: 2.6%
- Two or more races: 7.6%
- Some other race: 2.3%
- Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander: 0.2%
- American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.5%
- Hispanic or Latino (any race): 6.1%
- Foreign-born population: 7%
- Bachelor’s degree or higher: 28.8%
- Median income: $69,277
Is Hampton a safe place to live? Hampton, Virginia’s crime rate is moderate for a midsize coastal city, with a violent crime rate of 247 per 100,000 people and a total crime rate of 3,139 per 100,000, including property crime at 2,892. Safety varies by neighborhood, and many residential areas report lower crime levels than the citywide average.
Cost of Living in Hampton Roads Area
Is living in Hampton VA expensive? Overall, Hampton is an affordable coastal city, with a Cost of Living Index of 90.8, just below the national average. For families moving to Hampton VA, the Economic Policy Institute estimates that a household of four in Hampton City needs $8,189 per month or $98,265 per year to cover basic living expenses.
Everyday costs in Hampton, Virginia align closely with the Hampton Roads metro, based on Numbeo’s local pricing data:
- Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: $20.00
- Milk (1 liter): $1.57
- Fresh loaf of bread: $5.26
- Gasoline (1 liter): $0.80
- Basic Hampton utilities per month (electricity, cooling, water, garbage): $217.22
- Fitness club membership: $112.50/month
Hampton VA Real Estate
Housing is one of the biggest factors influencing the cost of living in Hampton. The median home price in Hampton VA is $300,000, representing a 10.5% increase year-over-year. Homes spend a median of 35 days on the market, with 166 properties sold in the most recent reporting period.
For renters, the average apartment rent in Hampton VA is $1,504, making it one of the more affordable cities in the Hampton Roads region.
Best Hampton Neighborhoods
Hampton, Virginia doesn’t have strict, formal neighborhood divisions, but several well-loved areas consistently stand out for convenience, charm, and lifestyle appeal. If you’re moving to Hampton VA, these are three of the most desirable parts of the city to consider when deciding where to live.
Phoebus – Historic, Artsy, and Walkable
Phoebus is one of Hampton’s most character-rich neighborhoods, blending historic architecture with an emerging arts and dining scene. Located right at the gateway to Fort Monroe National Monument, Phoebus offers walkable streets, independent shops, cafés, and beautifully restored buildings. Its mix of vintage homes and modern townhouses appeals to young professionals, creatives, and families who want a lively community with deep local roots.
Wythe – Waterfront Living with Classic Charm
Wythe, one of Hampton’s oldest residential areas, is known for quiet tree-lined streets, mature landscaping, and spacious early-20th-century homes. Many properties offer views of the Chesapeake Bay or Hampton Roads Harbor, giving the neighborhood a serene, coastal feel. Residents appreciate Wythe for its stability, community pride, and easy access to fishing piers, parks, and scenic waterfront drives.
Downtown Hampton – Urban Convenience & Waterfront Access
For those who prefer a more modern, walkable lifestyle, Downtown Hampton provides condo living, waterfront promenades, and immediate access to restaurants, museums, nightlife, and marinas. It’s home to the Hampton Maritime Center, the Virginia Air & Space Science Center, and a growing number of festivals and events. Downtown is ideal for young professionals, military personnel, and anyone who wants to live close to the water with minimal commuting.
Hampton VA Weather & Climate
Hampton has a humid subtropical climate, much like Virginia Beach’s climate, with four distinct seasons, mild winters, and long, warm summers. If you’re living in Hampton VA, you can expect hot, humid summers with July highs around 87–90°F, along with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Winters are relatively mild, with January temperatures typically ranging from the mid-30s to upper-40s°F. Snow is possible but usually light.
Rainfall is consistent year-round, totaling about 47 inches annually. Because Hampton sits on the Chesapeake Bay and Hampton Roads, coastal winds help moderate temperatures but can bring tropical storm activity during hurricane season (June–November).
Overall, Hampton weather is ideal for outdoor recreation most of the year, especially if you enjoy waterfront parks, beaches, and boating.
Things to Do in Hampton VA
Wondering about the best things to do in Hampton? While the city is known for its military heritage and waterfront setting, living in Hampton VA means you’re never far from cultural attractions, historical sites, museums, parks, entertainment venues, and scenic coastal areas. You’ll also find convenient shopping at nearby centers like Peninsula Town Center and Willow Oaks Village Square.
Here are some of the top Hampton attractions and places to explore.
The Mariners’ Museum and Park
One of the most renowned maritime museums in the world, The Mariners’ Museum & Park features extensive exhibits on naval history, shipwrecks, exploration, and the USS Monitor Center. Surrounding the museum is a beautiful 550-acre park with walking trails along Lake Maury — a favorite for locals and visitors alike.
100 Museum Dr, Newport News, VA 23606 (757) 596-2222
Hampton History Museum
This museum explores more than 400 years of Hampton’s history, from Native American settlements and early colonists to NASA, military influence, and the Civil Rights era. Interactive exhibits and rotating displays make it an excellent stop for residents wanting to understand the region’s rich past.
120 Old Hampton Ln, Hampton, VA 23669 (757) 727-1610
Grandview Nature Preserve
Located on the edge of the Chesapeake Bay, Grandview Nature Preserve offers pristine beaches, wildlife viewing, birdwatching, and scenic coastal trails. It’s one of the most peaceful natural areas in Hampton and a popular spot for sunrise walks and quiet waterfront escapes.
State Park Dr, Hampton, VA 23664 (757) 727-8311
Additional Attractions Near Hampton VA
Best Restaurants in Hampton VA
If you’re moving to Hampton or already living in Hampton VA, you’ll find a wide range of great local restaurants, from long-standing Italian spots to gastropubs and cozy neighborhood eateries. Here are a few popular restaurants in Hampton to try:
Mama Rosa’s Italian Family Restaurant
A beloved Hampton staple, Mama Rosa’s is known for its classic Italian comfort food, including hearty pastas, pizzas, and signature house specialties. The warm, family-run feel makes it a go-to spot for casual dinners and takeout.
2800 W Mercury Blvd, Hampton, VA 23666 (757) 826-6466
Park Lane Tavern
Park Lane Tavern blends European-inspired pub fare with an upscale yet relaxed atmosphere. Guests enjoy hearty entrées, sandwiches, and a large beer selection, making it a favorite for both weeknight dinners and weekend gatherings.
4200 Kilgore Ave #131, Hampton, VA 23666 (757) 838-2748
Circa 1918 Kitchen & Bar
One of the most acclaimed restaurants in Hampton, Circa 1918 offers a cozy, intimate dining experience with a rotating menu of creative American dishes. Known for its quality ingredients, craft cocktails, and romantic ambiance, it’s a top choice for date nights and special occasions.
10367 Warwick Blvd, Newport News, VA 23601 (757) 599-1918
Hampton VA Jobs
Looking for jobs in Hampton VA? The city has a diverse economy supported by military, aerospace, healthcare, education, shipbuilding, and retail. Many people living in Hampton VA work at major employers such as Joint Base Langley–Eustis, NASA Langley Research Center, Hampton University, Huntington Ingalls Industries, and Sentara Healthcare. Tourism and hospitality also play a significant role thanks to Hampton’s waterfront parks, museums, and festivals.
According to ZipRecruiter, the average salary in Hampton is about $25.46 an hour, or $52,952 per year, reflecting strong wage potential across skilled trades, government roles, and professional sectors. Median household income in Hampton is $69,277, and residents benefit from access to the broader Hampton Roads job market, which includes Norfolk, Newport News, and Virginia Beach.
For commuters, Hampton’s central position along I-64 makes it easy to reach regional employers while still enjoying the affordability and coastal lifestyle that come with living in Hampton VA.
Hampton VA Schools
Curious about the schools in Hampton VA? Families living in Hampton VA are served by Hampton City Schools, a district known for its specialty academies, career-focused programs, and strong STEM resources. Students typically attend campuses such as Kecoughtan High School, Phoebus High School, Bethel High School, and Hampton High School, the oldest public high school in the U.S., which is still operating.
Hampton is also home to Hampton University, a nationally recognized HBCU, along with several private schools and faith-based school options. Hampton is also a quick drive to Norfolk, where students will find Old Dominion University. With diverse programs and historic institutions, the Hampton school district offers strong educational pathways for all ages.
Hampton VA Statistics & Information
- County: Independent city (not part of any county)
- Hampton area: 51 square miles
- Hampton VA zip codes: 23605–23669
- Hampton area code: 757
- Hampton VA elevation: ~10–20 feet above sea level
- Time zone: Eastern Standard Time (UTC -6 and -7)
- Closest airport to Hampton VA: Norfolk International Airport (ORF) — about 15 miles southeast
FAQ
What Is Hampton VA Known for?
A: Hampton, Virginia is known for its deep maritime history, NASA’s Langley Research Center, and Fort Monroe National Monument. Located on the Chesapeake Bay, the city played a major role in early American history and later became a hub for aerospace research. Hampton is also recognized for Buckroe Beach, the Hampton Coliseum, and its connection to Hampton University, one of the nation’s oldest historically Black colleges. Its waterfront setting and military presence shape much of daily life.
How Much Does It Cost to Live in Hampton VA?
A: The cost of living in Hampton VA is slightly below the national average, with the Hampton Roads COLI at 90.8. Housing is relatively affordable, with a median home price of about $300,000 and average rent of around $1,504. According to the Economic Policy Institute, a family of four in Hampton needs roughly $98,265 per year for basic expenses. Typical costs include $20 for an inexpensive restaurant meal and about $217 per month for basic utilities.
What County Is Hampton VA In?
A: Hampton is an independent city in southeastern Virginia and is not part of any county. As one of Virginia’s oldest municipalities, it operates its own local government, school district, and public services. Hampton sits along Hampton Roads and the Chesapeake Bay, bordered by Newport News to the northwest and Norfolk across the water. Its central location provides easy access to Fort Monroe, NASA Langley, and major transportation corridors in the region.
How Far Is Hampton VA From Norfolk?
A: Hampton is located approximately 15 miles northwest of Norfolk, Virginia. The drive typically takes 20 to 30 minutes via I-64, depending on traffic around the Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel. This close proximity makes Hampton a practical home base for commuters working in Norfolk or the broader Hampton Roads region. The short distance also provides easy access to Norfolk’s downtown, naval facilities, cultural attractions, and waterfront areas.
Map of Hampton, VA
Ready to Make Living in Hampton VA a Reality?
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