Market Overview
Suffolk is pricier ($370K median vs $250K), a difference of about $120K. Suffolk moves faster, with homes averaging 24 days on market compared to 28 in Portsmouth. Portsmouth offers a lower entry point at $75K–$550K.
Portsmouth
VA
Suffolk
VA
Median Price
$250K
$370K
Avg Days on Market
28 days
24 days
Price Range
$75K–$550K
$175K–$800K
Top Neighborhoods
Olde Towne, Churchland, Western Branch, Port Norfolk
Harbour View, Bennetts Creek, Godwin Boulevard, Riverfront
Schools
Portsmouth has a 60% average SOL pass rate; Suffolk has 72% (2024 state assessment data). Public schools in Portsmouth include Churchland High School and I.C. Norcom High School; in Suffolk, Nansemond River High School and King's Fork High School. See Portsmouth schools | See Suffolk schools
Portsmouth
VA
Suffolk
VA
Avg Pass Rate
60%
72%
Public schools
Churchland High School, I.C. Norcom High School, Cradock Middle School
Nansemond River High School, King's Fork High School, Lakeland High School
Pass Rate
Commute
Portsmouth is closer to downtown at ~10 minutes vs ~30 minutes. Neither city has direct Metro access. Major highway access: Portsmouth (I-264, I-664, Rt 17), Suffolk (Rt 58, Rt 13, Rt 460).
Portsmouth
VA
Suffolk
VA
Drive to Downtown
~10 min
~30 min
Metro Stations
No Metro access
No Metro access
Metro Lines
N/A
N/A
Major Highways
I-264, I-664, Rt 17, Rt 58
Rt 58, Rt 13, Rt 460, I-664
Commuter Rail
None
None
VA
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Portsmouth or Suffolk more affordable?
Portsmouth is more affordable with a median home price of $250K, compared to $370K in Suffolk. Both cities offer a wide range of housing options, from condos and townhomes to single-family homes. Portsmouth prices range from $75K–$550K. Suffolk prices range from $175K–$800K.
What are the public-school pass rates in Portsmouth and Suffolk?
Portsmouth public schools have a 60% average SOL pass rate; Suffolk has 72% (2024 state assessment data). Public schools in Portsmouth include Churchland High School and I.C. Norcom High School; in Suffolk, Nansemond River High School and King's Fork High School. Pass rates reflect district-wide assessment results; check the specific assigned schools for any address.
Which is easier to commute from, Portsmouth or Suffolk?
Portsmouth has the shorter commute to downtown at ~10 minutes vs ~30 minutes. Portsmouth has no direct Metro access. Suffolk has no direct Metro access.
How do Portsmouth and Suffolk compare?
Portsmouth is a waterfront city across the Elizabeth River from Norfolk, with a rich naval heritage and a revitalizing downtown. Suffolk is the largest city by area in Virginia, offering a mix of new construction communities and rural charm. The right choice depends on your priorities: budget, commute length, home types, and neighborhood feel. smover can connect you with a verified agent in either city.
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 June 2026.