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Portsmouth

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About Portsmouth

Teeming with rich maritime heritage and unique attractions, Virginia’s historic seaport city on the banks of the Elizabeth River charms residents and holidaymakers with its laid-back, small-town atmosphere and fascinating art scene. Portsmouth, an independent city in southeastern Virginia, boasts a picturesque waterfront, natural attractions, and a wide array of centuries-old antique homes. It also snagged the first spot in the ranking of “The Best Markets for First-Time Homebuyers in 2023” by Realtor.com, a California-based real estate listings website.

Thus, homes for sale in Portsmouth, VA are desirable by any measure, with perks including:

  • Plenty of locally owned shops and restaurants
  • Walkable districts
  • Vibrant cultural scene
  • A stunning shoreline and bustling harbor
  • Viable career prospects
  • Unique family-friendly activities

Want to know more about Portsmouth, VA? Read on!

Luxury homes for sale in Portsmouth, VA

The single most common property type in Portsmouth is the detached single-family home, accounting for nearly 62% of the city's housing stock. Potential buyers of luxury homes in Portsmouth can also look at the other notable property types in the city such as big apartment complexes or high-rise apartments, which account for 18.30%. Research also shows that there are duplexes and homes that have been converted into apartments or small apartment buildings (10.07%). Meanwhile, row houses and other attached homes make up 9.74%, based on real estate Portsmouth, VA data.

Properties typically feature 3 and 4 bedrooms, with an average size of 2,346 square feet. According to Neighborhood Scout, around 54% of residents own their own real estate in Portsmouth, VA.

If luxury homes in Portsmouth, VA are what you’re after, this historic city offers you a wide array of styles. Here you'll find a Victorian mansion with a Federal doorway and lovely porches, an 1839 Greek Revival structure, a Colonial house with a gambrel roof, a Gothic-style home, and a lavish Federal-era mansion. There’s also a Romanesque Revival property and a house with French-inspired, New Orleans architecture.

Source: Realtor [June 2024]

Average Home Prices

$107,950Lowest
$273,000Median
$615,960Highest

Median Home Price per Square Feet

$137Lowest
$180Median
$159Highest

Average Home Statistics in terms of:

4No. of beds
3No. of baths
2,346Square feet

Welcome to Portsmouth, VA!

Get your bearings

Strategically located in the heart of metropolitan Hampton Roads, the charming city of Portsmouth is perched on the southern shore of the Elizabeth River. Its development is often associated with being an East Coast deepwater port.

The coastal city is easily accessible from Norfolk International Airport, just 10 miles away, as well as the major highways connected to eastern Virginia. Located west of Virginia Beach. Portsmouth is bordered by the cities of Norfolk (east), Suffolk (west), and Chesapeake (south).

Colonial Williamsburg is less than an hour’s drive away.

Founding Portsmouth, VA

The town’s vibrant history has long been associated with transportation and shipbuilding. Founded by William Crawford in 1752, the town of Portsmouth was named after a famous English naval port.

The four corners of High and Court Streets were devoted by Colonel Crawford to a market, church, courthouse, and jail. From 1801 to 1963, it was the seat of Norfolk County. However, the county was replaced by independent cities. Separated from the county government, Portsmouth became an independent city in 1858.

6 things Portsmouth, VA is famous for

  1. Portsmouth, VA is famous for having one of the most remarkable natural harbors in the world, located on the James and Elizabeth Rivers and flowing into the Chesapeake Bay. Some of the top industries in the city are maritime, logistics, offshore wind, and manufacturing.

  2. Portsmouth, VA is famous for gorgeous views of the Elizabeth River. Beyond its scenic beauty, this vital waterway is also known for its historic and strategic importance, supporting shipping, recreation, and the diverse wildlife along its banks.

  3. Portsmouth, VA is famous for US Navy installations such as the Naval Medical Center Portsmouth (the oldest, continuously operating hospital of the US Navy) and Norfolk Naval Shipyard (the oldest naval shipyard in the country) are found in this maritime city.

  4. Portsmouth, VA is famous for being an official US Coast Guard City, one of only 34 designated by US Congress. Being a Coast Guard City brings economic, social, and cultural benefits to a community while enhancing the relationship and mutual support between the local population and the Coast Guard.

  5. Portsmouth, VA is famous for being steeped in American history. Portsmouth serves as home to patriots of the Revolutionary War, pioneering visionaries, and community leaders. It is also famous for its diverse attractions, chef-owned restaurants and quirky shops.

  6. Portsmouth, VA is famous for its vibrant culture. The city hosts the annual Umoja Festival, a lively celebration of African-American culture that involves live music, a traditional arts and crafts marketplace, and an international food selection. Other notable events include the Seawall Art Show, Olde Towne Holiday Music Festival, Black History Now, and Olde Towne Portsmouth Ghost Walk.

Portsmouth, VA by the numbers

  • 47 square miles : total area (34 square miles; water: 13 square miles)
  • 97,915 : total population as of 2020
  • 43,164 : number of housing units in the city
  • 10th largest city in the US state of Virginia in terms of population

8 luxury neighborhoods in Portsmouth, VA

Neighborhoods

Of the 32 associated neighborhoods in Portsmouth, VA, below are just 8 of the most notable:

Olde Towne

This historic neighborhood boasts cobblestone streets, original period homes, and lovely waterfront views, making it idyllic for those looking for mansions in Portsmouth, VA. Olde Town also teems with art, culture, dining, and shopping opportunities while maintaining a small-time charm. It was also included in Coastal Virginia Magazine’s list of coolest neighborhoods in 2021.


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Neighborhoods

Of the 32 associated neighborhoods in Portsmouth, VA, below are just 8 of the most notable:

Glenshellah

An upscale residential neighborhood, Glenshellah is known for its spacious, well-maintained homes and tree-lined streets. It offers a peaceful, suburban feel with convenient access to local amenities. Residents enjoy a strong sense of community, local parks, and proximity to the waterfront, making it ideal for families.


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Neighborhoods

Of the 32 associated neighborhoods in Portsmouth, VA, below are just 8 of the most notable:

Waterview

Aptly named for its scenic views of the Elizabeth River, Waterview features a mix of historic and contemporary homes. It's a peaceful, upscale area with waterfront parks, easy access to boating activities, and proximity to Hoffler Creek Wildlife Reserve.


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Neighborhoods

Of the 32 associated neighborhoods in Portsmouth, VA, below are just 8 of the most notable:

River Pointe

This family-friendly community located along the western branch of Elizabeth River was developed in the 1990s. It includes single-family homes, townhomes, as well as single-family and multi-family condominiums. River Pointe is nestled close to Interstate 264 for easy travel. The community-oriented neighborhood is also adorned with green spaces and picturesque river views.


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Neighborhoods

Of the 32 associated neighborhoods in Portsmouth, VA, below are just 8 of the most notable:

Port Norfolk

Victorian, Queen Anne, and Colonial Revival architectural styles are prevalent in this suburban neighborhood overlooking the Elizabeth River. You’ll also find expansive porches, lush lawns, and pretty flowerbeds in this area. Homes date back to the 19th and 20th centuries when it was developed to ease the commute of railroad and shipping facility workers.


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Neighborhoods

Of the 32 associated neighborhoods in Portsmouth, VA, below are just 8 of the most notable:

Sterling Point

A prestigious neighborhood known for its beautiful, spacious homes and manicured lawns. Sterling Point offers a serene, family-friendly environment with excellent schools, parks, and convenient access to shopping and dining. The community enjoys a peaceful ambiance and a strong sense of neighborliness.


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Neighborhoods

Of the 32 associated neighborhoods in Portsmouth, VA, below are just 8 of the most notable:

Cavalier Manor

If you're searching for luxury homes in Portsmouth, VA, Cavalier Manor could be the place for you. It promises a relaxing lifestyle, provides convenient access to leisure facilities such as golf, tennis courts, a casino, and more. Residents can go fishing in Lake Cavalier and chill out in Cavalier Manor Recreation Center.


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Neighborhoods

Of the 32 associated neighborhoods in Portsmouth, VA, below are just 8 of the most notable:

Park View

Consider this urban neighborhood when you search for homes for sale in Portsmouth, VA. It is one of the city’s first suburbs and features homes from the early 1900s. Colonial Revival, Queen Anne, and American Foursquare houses can be seen in this historic district. Park View is near Portsmouth Boating Center and Naval Medical Center Portsmouth.


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Living in Portsmouth, VA

Getting around

Checking out homes for sale in Portsmouth, VA with the possibility of living here in the future? Residents of Portsmouth have plenty of transportation options to get around the city. Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) offers bus service, ferry transit, and paratransit. This regional transit provider of public transport also serves other nearby cities such as Chesapeake, Norfolk, Virginia Beach, Hampton, and Newport News. Private bus companies are available in the greater Hampton Roads area. Rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft are operational in the city as well. Biking and walking around Portsmouth’s flat terrain and historic neighborhoods are ideal, too.

Climate

The city experiences a humid subtropical climate where summers are warm and winters are mild. The temperature here typically ranges from 34 degrees in winter to 88 degrees in summer. Portsmouth is also endowed with substantial rain year-round. The best months to enjoy the outdoors are from May to September, which have average temperatures of 65 to 85 degrees.

Shopping and dining

From sports and recreational equipment to specialty gifts, Portsmouth has it all.



Craving faves and raves? Treat yourself to something delicious:



Recreational activities
  • IMMERSE yourself in history in Olde Towne Portsmouth. Stroll around the historic seaport town where you’ll admire 18th- and 19th-century architecture and a plethora of period homes. After a self-guided walking tour, treat your family to a luxurious waterfront dining experience. With so many things to do here – watch a film in an Art Deco theatre, visit museums and galleries, go to a concert on the water, appreciate murals and public art – Olde Towne has everything you need for a fun day out.

  • RIDE the Elizabeth River Ferry. Explore the sights while on board a lovely ferry ride along the Elizabeth River. Enjoy the scenic views from the top deck of one three ferries between Olde Towne in Portsmouth and Waterside District in Norfolk. You can also opt for a leisurely stroll on the boardwalk.

  • PICNIC at Portsmouth City Park. Whether you plan to take your family on a picnic or play a friendly tennis match, Portsmouth City Park is an awesome place to relax. In addition to its picnic areas and tennis courts, the 93-acre landscaped park has a 9-hole executive golf course, a skate park, a boat launch, and fishing piers. It’s also a nice place to go jogging or walking.

  • EXPLORE the trails at Paradise Creek Nature Park. Featuring more than 2 miles of forested trails and 11 acres of restored wetlands, this 40-acre public park is an oasis for nature lovers. It also has a kayak launch for avid paddlers, and a picnic pavilion and tables that are free to use. Discover the butterfly garden and check out what's nutritious in the Edible Garden. There’s also a wildflower meadow and a river-themed playground with a mural.

  • BIRD WATCH at Hoffler Creek Nature Preserve. This 142-acre land preserve hosts more than 200 species of birds. In addition to the bald eagle, spot wildlife like deer and foxes. Here, you can rent a kayak, hike more than 3 miles of trails, and simply gaze at the breathtaking view from decks overlooking the lake and creek.

  • PLAY GOLF with friends or family. Spend the day at Bide-a-Wee Golf Course, an 18-hole, par-72 course with a clubhouse, a pro shop, ponds, and lakes. This Curtis Strange signature course was hailed as the Best Municipal Course in Virginia by Golf Digest. Alternatively, you can opt for The Links at City Park, an executive 9-hole course and driving range located along the Western Branch of the Elizabeth River. Fans of golf and soccer can also play foot golf on this course.

  • SHOP at the Portsmouth Olde Towne Farmers’ Market and Olde Towne Antique & Flea Market. Get your fresh produce, grilled heirloom meats, pastries, and artisanal goods at the Farmer's Market. The courtyard also hosts live music and yoga sessions. For vintage finds, head to Olde Towne Antique & Flea Market every first Saturday of the month. It features over 70 vendors selling silverware, handmade crafts, sports gear, furniture, books, and more.

Other attractions

Children’s Museum of Virginia


Known as the largest children’s museum in Virginia, it has an immersive planetarium featuring a full-dome digital projection, starry skies, and fun educational features that kids will love. The museum also includes two floors of exhibits with hands-on activities for families and exciting attractions for children to play and learn.


Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum

Get to know more about the city’s rich naval history in a museum that dates back to 1950. Browse giant ship anchors, cannons, dioramas, and many more displays. You’ll also find artifacts from the Civil War, including uniforms and firearms. Visitors will also learn about Portsmouth Hampton Roads during World War I.


Portsmouth Art & Cultural Center


Art enthusiasts will be delighted to explore this 1846 Greek Revival building that once served as a county courthouse. From rotating visual art exhibitions to live musical performances in the outdoor courtyard, this art center has a lot to offer its visitors. It has two galleries of exhibits by local and national artists and offers a variety of workshops and lectures.


The Commodore Theatre


This state-of-the-art motion picture theatre offers 21st-century technology while remaining housed in the restored glory of its 1945 Art Deco structure. The 41-foot screen ensures a luxurious viewing experience. A casual dining restaurant serves pizza, desserts, wine, and beer. What’s more, Tesla owners can charge their electric vehicles in the private lot for free.


Lightship Portsmouth Museum


This 1915 lightship-turned-waterfront museum is a must-visit attraction showcasing still another side of Portsmouth’s naval history. It was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1989 and was adorned with maritime artifacts and photographs of the historic ship.


Atlantic Union Bank Pavilion


If you love being in the thick of the action, Atlantic Union Bank Pavilion is the place for you. Enjoy live music in this outdoor venue that can accommodate 6,500 fans.


Local festivals and events
  • Umoja Festival is an annual fest that highlights the vibrant African-American culture and celebrates unity amidst diversity. Live music and international cuisine are part of the festival.

  • Seawall Music Festival features live jazz, rock, pop, and other genres on the waterfront, along with beer and food.

  • Memorial Day Parade includes floats and marching bands commemorating the military personnel who have died in service to the country. The Portsmouth parade is one of the longest-running Memorial Day Parades in the US.

  • Olde Towne Ghost Walk is a guided walking tour accompanied by spooky tales of the historic district.

  • Scottish Walk is a tradition inspired by Scotland’s Hogmanay Festival. The event includes a procession featuring pipe-and-drum bands capped by the singing of “Auld Lang Syne.”

  • Cock Island Race is an iconic Southern Bay event aimed to promote sailing and fellowship. When the race is over, head to the Portsmouth Boat Club for a fun party.

Own a Luxury Home in Portsmouth, VA

Colonial Home in Portsmouth

Discover stunning restorations of 18th-century Colonial homes in Portsmouth, VA


If you envision yourself living in the charming, historic city of Portsmouth or simply want to explore the luxury real estate market of the area, work with the team at The Agency Coastal Virginia. The Agency specializes in this niche segment and offers a wealth of expertise and knowledge on properties in Portsmouth, Norfolk, Chesapeake, Suffolk, Williamsburg, and Virginia Beach.


Ready to check out the homes for sale in Portsmouth, VA? Contact our team of experts today. Call 757.355.5444 or send us an email to get started.

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