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Portsmouth, VA vs Suffolk, VA
Portsmouth, VA vs Suffolk, VA: What the data shows
Portsmouth, VA is in Portsmouth, VA while Suffolk, VA is in Suffolk, VA — both in the same state. On home prices, Portsmouth, VA is the more affordable option at $171,900 median — $105,600 less than Suffolk, VA's $277,500. WYLT rates Portsmouth, VA as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Suffolk, VA as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Suffolk, VA has the stronger safety profile of the two. Portsmouth, VA has High violent crime and High property crime. Suffolk, VA has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Portsmouth, VA has Low flood risk and Suffolk, VA has Low flood risk.
Portsmouth, VA is the more walkable neighborhood. Portsmouth, VA scores 22/100 (car-dependent) versus Suffolk, VA's 8/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Suffolk, VA has the higher school rating — Portsmouth, VA rates 8.2/10 and Suffolk, VA rates 8.3/10.
| Category | Portsmouth, VA | Suffolk, VA |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Good for now |
| Median Price | $172K ✓ Lower price | $278K |
| Median Rent | $1K | $1K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $44K | $74K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 22/100 ✓ More walkable | 8/100 |
| Transit Score | 2/100 | 28/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | 36/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| 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 | 8.3/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | affordable familiesbudget‑conscious rentersurban commuters | Families looking for a quiet suburbRemote workers needing reliable internetRenters planning to buy after a short stay |
Bottom line
Both neighborhoods have distinct trade-offs — review the data above to find your best fit.
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