Let the numbers do the talking.
Arlington, VA vs Norfolk, VA
Arlington, VA vs Norfolk, VA: What the data shows
Arlington, VA is in Arlington, VA while Norfolk, VA is in Norfolk, VA — both in the same state. On home prices, Norfolk, VA is the more affordable option at $342,700 median — $406,300 less than Arlington, VA's $749,000. WYLT rates Arlington, VA as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots — and Norfolk, VA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Arlington, VA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Norfolk, VA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Arlington, VA has Low flood risk and Norfolk, VA has Low flood risk.
Arlington, VA is the more walkable neighborhood. Arlington, VA scores 85/100 (very walkable) versus Norfolk, VA's 50/100 (somewhat walkable). For families weighing school quality, Arlington, VA has the higher school rating — Arlington, VA rates 8.5/10 and Norfolk, VA rates 8.2/10.
| Category | Arlington, VA | Norfolk, VA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Settle here | Good for now |
| Median Price | $749K | $343K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K | $1K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $140K ✓ Higher income | $72K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 85/100 ✓ More walkable | 50/100 |
| Transit Score | 59/100 ✓ Better transit | 17/100 |
| Bike Score | 70/100 ✓ More bikeable | 31/100 |
| Commute | 9 min | N/A |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 8.5/10 ✓ Better schools | 8.2/10 |
| Best for | young professionalscommuters to DCsmall families | young professionalsstudentsremote workers |
Bottom line
Bottom line: If a short commute to Washington, DC and a walkable, transit‑ready lifestyle are top priorities, Arlington is the stronger option, despite its higher cost. For those who want more affordable housing and can accept less walkability and limited transit, Norfolk provides good schools and a reasonable price, making it suitable for families or remote workers.
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