Let the numbers do the talking.
Hampton, VA vs Virginia Beach, VA
Hampton, VA vs Virginia Beach, VA: What the data shows
Hampton, VA is in Hampton, VA while Virginia Beach, VA is in Virginia Beach, VA — both in the same state. On home prices, Hampton, VA is the more affordable option at $238,200 median — $299,700 less than Virginia Beach, VA's $537,900. WYLT rates Hampton, VA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Virginia Beach, VA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Hampton, VA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Hampton, VA has Moderate violent crime and Low property crime. Virginia Beach, VA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Hampton, VA has Low flood risk and Virginia Beach, VA has High flood risk.
Hampton, VA is the more walkable neighborhood. Hampton, VA scores 9/100 (car-dependent) versus Virginia Beach, VA's N/A/100. For families weighing school quality, Hampton, VA has the higher school rating — Hampton, VA rates 9/10 and Virginia Beach, VA rates 8.8/10.
| Category | Hampton, VA | Virginia Beach, VA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Think twice |
| Median Price | $238K ✓ Lower price | $538K |
| Median Rent | $1K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $61K | $93K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 9/100 ✓ More walkable | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A |
| Commute | 45 min | N/A |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | B- ✓ Safer | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 9/10 ✓ Better schools | 8.8/10 |
| Best for | Base employeesFamiliesCommuters | Families with childrenMilitary familiesRetirees seeking beach lifestyle |
Bottom line
Hampton is a more affordable option with strong schools and a good commute, making it suitable for families, base employees, and first-time homebuyers who value decent schools and a suburban lifestyle. However, it's essential to consider the lack of public transit and walkability. If you're a beach-oriented family willing to sacrifice affordability and deal with flood risk, Virginia Beach might be tolerable, but only if you're in a situation where you can afford it.
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