Market Overview
Norfolk is pricier ($280K median vs $255K), a difference of about $25K. Norfolk moves faster, with homes averaging 24 days on market compared to 25 in Hampton. Hampton offers a lower entry point at $80K–$650K.
Hampton
VA
Norfolk
VA
Median Price
$255K
$280K
Avg Days on Market
25 days
24 days
Price Range
$80K–$650K
$100K–$1M
Top Neighborhoods
Phoebus, Buckroe Beach, Fox Hill, Wythe
Ghent, Downtown Norfolk, West Ghent, Colonial Place
Schools
Norfolk leads on school quality with a 65% average pass rate (rated Average) compared to 65% in Hampton. Top schools in Hampton include Hampton High School and Phoebus High School. In Norfolk, families look to Maury High School and Granby High School. See Hampton schools | See Norfolk schools
Hampton
VA
Norfolk
VA
Quality Tier
Average
Average
Avg Pass Rate
65%
65%
Top Schools
Hampton High School, Phoebus High School, Bethel High School
Maury High School, Granby High School, Norfolk Academy (private)
Pass Rate
Commute
Norfolk is closer to downtown at ~10 minutes vs ~25 minutes. Neither city has direct Metro access. Major highway access: Hampton (I-64, I-664, Rt 258), Norfolk (I-264, I-64, I-564).
Hampton
VA
Norfolk
VA
Drive to Downtown
~25 min
~10 min
Metro Stations
No Metro access
No Metro access
Metro Lines
N/A
N/A
Major Highways
I-64, I-664, Rt 258
I-264, I-64, I-564, Rt 13
Commuter Rail
None
None
Safety
Norfolk is rated "Below Average" with a total crime rate 72% above Virginia average. Hampton is rated "Below Average" (42% above Virginia average). Both cities compare favorably to broader regional trends. Crime rates vary by neighborhood, so check specific areas when house hunting.
Hampton
VA
Norfolk
VA
Safety Rating
Violent Crime
3.8/1K
4.2/1K
Property Crime
20.2/1K
24.8/1K
vs Virginia Avg
42% above Virginia average
72% above Virginia average
VA
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hampton or Norfolk more affordable?
Hampton is more affordable with a median home price of $255K, compared to $280K in Norfolk. Both cities offer a wide range of housing options, from condos and townhomes to single-family homes. Hampton prices range from $80K–$650K. Norfolk prices range from $100K–$1M.
Which has better schools, Hampton or Norfolk?
Norfolk has stronger schools overall, with a 65% average pass rate compared to 65% in Hampton. Top schools in Hampton include Hampton High School and Phoebus High School. In Norfolk, standout schools include Maury High School and Granby High School. School quality varies by neighborhood, so check specific school zones when evaluating homes.
Which is easier to commute from, Hampton or Norfolk?
Norfolk has the shorter commute to downtown at ~10 minutes vs ~25 minutes. Hampton has no direct Metro access. Norfolk has no direct Metro access.
Is Hampton or Norfolk better for families?
Both cities are popular with families. Hampton is a historic waterfront city on the Chesapeake Bay, home to Langley Air Force Base, NASA Langley Research Center, and Hampton University. Norfolk is the cultural hub of Hampton Roads, home to Naval Station Norfolk, the world's largest naval base. The best choice depends on your priorities: budget, school quality, commute length, and neighborhood feel. smover can help you find a verified agent in either city who specializes in family-friendly neighborhoods.
Market data verified by smover using real transaction records. School data from Virginia DOE, Maryland MSDE, and DC OSSE public reports. Property tax rates from Virginia Dept. of Taxation (2024). Walkability scores from Walk Score (2024). Crime data from FBI UCR and Virginia State Police (2023). Commute times are approximate rush-hour estimates. Updated March 2026.