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Top neighborhoods in Norfolk, VA
East Ocean View
What's it like to live in East Ocean View?
Beachfront accessibility defines East Ocean View, where rental homes along Chesapeake Bay offer direct water access at significantly better rates than Virginia Beach oceanfront properties. The neighborhood features a mix of vintage cottages and new construction with varied price points. Though some blocks show investment transitions, the combination of affordability and beach proximity creates compelling value for water enthusiasts seeking authentic coastal living.
Waterfront living at accessible prices defines Bayview, where many homes offer Chesapeake Bay views and beach access. The laid-back neighborhood feels removed from city hustle despite being just minutes from downtown Norfolk and major military installations. Rental options include everything from beach bungalows to larger family homes, though hurricane evacuation orders affect this zone during serious storms.
Historic Ghent combines Victorian architecture with vibrant street life around the Colley Avenue corridor. Rental options include apartments in converted grand homes and newer buildings designed to complement the historic character. The neighborhood offers exceptional walkability to restaurants, the Chrysler Museum, and the Hague waterfront, though parking challenges require most renters to secure dedicated spaces or permits for street parking in this densely developed district.
Welcome to the Apartment List February 2026 Rent Report for Norfolk, VA. Currently, the overall median rent in the city stands at $1,550, after rising 0.7% last month. Prices and are now up 6.2% year-over-year. Read on to learn more about what’s been happening in the Norfolk rental market and how it compares to trends throughout the broader Virginia Beach metro area and the nation as a whole.
National study of renter’s satisfaction with their cities and states
Apartment List has released Norfolk’s results from the third annual Apartment List Renter Satisfaction Survey. This survey, which drew on responses from over 45,000 renters, provides insight on what states and cities must do to meet the needs of 111 million American renters nationwide.
"Norfolk renters expressed general satisfaction with the city overall," according to Apartment List. "They gave most categories near average scores."
Key findings in Norfolk include the following:
Renters say:
For more information on the survey methodology and findings or to speak to one of our researchers, please contact our team at rentonomics@apartmentlist.com.
