Let the numbers do the talking.
Portsmouth, VA vs Roanoke, VA
Portsmouth, VA vs Roanoke, VA: What the data shows
Portsmouth, VA is in Portsmouth, VA while Roanoke, VA is in Roanoke, VA — both in the same state. On home prices, Portsmouth, VA is the more affordable option at $171,900 median — $658,100 less than Roanoke, VA's $830,000. WYLT rates Portsmouth, VA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Roanoke, VA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Roanoke, VA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Portsmouth, VA has High violent crime and High property crime. Roanoke, VA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Portsmouth, VA has Low flood risk and Roanoke, VA has Low flood risk.
Roanoke, VA is the more walkable neighborhood. Portsmouth, VA scores 22/100 (car-dependent) versus Roanoke, VA's 74/100 (very walkable). For families weighing school quality, both neighborhoods have the same school rating — Portsmouth, VA rates 8.2/10 and Roanoke, VA rates 8.2/10.
| Category | Portsmouth, VA | Roanoke, VA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $172K ✓ Lower price | $830K |
| Median Rent | $1K | $996 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $44K | $60K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 22/100 | 74/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 2/100 | 36/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | 36/100 | 60/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 35 min ✓ Shorter commute | 60 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | F | D+ ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | High | Moderate ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | High | Moderate ✓ Lower risk |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 8.2/10 | 8.2/10 |
| Best for | affordable familiesbudget‑conscious rentersurban commuters | RentersRemote workersYoung families |
Bottom line
Both neighborhoods have distinct trade-offs — review the data above to find your best fit.
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