Best Places to Live Near Naval Station Norfolk for Families
Note for Military Families: This guide provides general overviews based on reasonable approximations to help you start your research. We do not provide personalized real estate, legal, financial, or school-placement advice. Verify everything directly.
Welcome to Naval Station Norfolk
Relocating to Naval Station Norfolk? The Hampton Roads area is massive and defined by water crossings. Use this as a starting point to research top neighborhoods for military relocation.
Areas Families Often Consider
Norfolk (Ghent / Ocean View)
Located closest to the base. Families often explore these areas for short commutes and city amenities, though housing styles vary greatly.
Virginia Beach
Located to the east. Highly sought-after by families for its schools, suburban feel, and beaches, though the commute is longer.
Chesapeake
Located to the south. Families often research this area for newer subdivisions and highly-rated schools.
Suffolk
Located further west. Families often explore this area for more affordable housing and larger lot sizes.
Commute Considerations
Commute times are dictated by bridge-tunnels and interstate traffic (I-64/I-264). Living in Virginia Beach or Chesapeake requires significant commute planning. Be sure to map your drive.
7:00 AM - 8:30 AM: Heavy
3:30 PM - 5:30 PM: Moderate to Heavy
- Choke Points: Gate access roads and main highways.
- School Zones: Local school zones heavily impact morning drive times.
- Expectations: Plan for extra time, especially during your first week.
Master Your Next PCS
Grab our ultimate PCS Family Checklist. It includes timeline trackers, school registration guides, and budget sheets to make your next move seamless.
View the Free PCS ChecklistWhat Military Families Care About
- Commute times to specific gates
- School district boundaries and transition support
- Safety and community amenities
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is the commute from Virginia Beach to Norfolk really that bad?
- Traffic on I-264 and I-64 can be very heavy during peak hours. Many families accept the commute for the schools and neighborhood feel, but it requires patience.