hampton
Photo Credit: Pixabay

Should You Seriously Consider Moving to Hampton, Virginia?

If you ask me this, the answer will be yes!

The splendid city is one of the best places in the Commonwealth of Virginia to call your home. Hampton is known for its amazing festivals, cultural attractions, and love for the arts. And if you are someone who loves simple things in life, you will definitely love living here.

However, before you take a call on your relocation to Hampton, there are things you need to know about the city. This may include cost of living, jobs, lifestyle, safety, education, and transport. You need not worry as we’ve got all the information related to the city to help you decide whether moving to Hampton is a good idea.

Our experts have thoroughly researched the seventh-most-populous city in Virginia State and have got all the required information about Hampton that you need to know.

Without wasting much time, let’s delve deep into the city's details.

QuickFacts

Quick facts to know before moving to Hampton

  • Hampton is an independent city in Virginia.
  • The city is the seventh most populous in the state.
  • It is also the 37th most populous in the country.
  • The city is highly affordable.
  • Safety is not an issue in Hampton.
  • The economy is booming in Hampton.
  • There is a diversity of jobs.
  • The population is highly diverse.
  • The summers are highly humid here.
  • The city is a center of arts.

Top 10 things to know before moving to Hampton

  • Nightlife is dull in Hampton.
  • The schools may not match your expectations.
  • The crime rate is lower than the national average.
  • The cost of living is much lower than the US average.
  • It is easier to own a house in the city.
  • The city’s job market is robust.
  • The city witnesses heavy traffic which can be a concern.
  • There is a lot to explore outdoors.
  • The climate is subtropical.
  • It rains heavily every year.

Is Hampton a good place to live?

The city boasts a strong and growing economy with diverse jobs. In addition, it is also a center of arts where most people lead laid-back life which relieves you from the choking-up lifestyle of major US cities. Moreover, the city is safer with a low crime rate. You shouldn’t miss the chance to relocate to Hampton if happiness is what you are looking for.

Is Hampton expensive?

The major reason to relocate to Hampton is the cost of living. The city’s cost of living is 12.7% lower than the US average which means housing, healthcare, transport, groceries, and other amenities are more affordable than most parts of the country. A typical home is also approximately 27.7% cheaper than the US average which means you have higher chances of owning one.

How safe is Hampton?

Safety is a major factor that makes Hampton a preferred moving location. The city records a relatively lower crime rate, 17.4 compared to the US average of 22.7. However, the city does have a higher rate of property crime, with a rate of 47.3 compared to the US average of 35.4. If you prefer raising a family in a safer environment, no city suits you better than Hampton.

What's the population of Hampton, VA?

The city has 136,748 people residing, which means 2,635 persons per square mile. One of the most positive factors about the population is the diversity. The median age is 36.3. It is the seventh most populous city in Virginia and has 2.5 persons per household. About 11.3% of the population lives under the poverty line.

To know the population better, here are a few stats.

  • Hampton’s total population is 136,748.
  • The population is made up of 48.3% males and 51.7% females.
  • The median age in Hampton is 36.3.
  • The city population is made up of 39.2% White, 49.2% Black or African American, 2.4% Asian, and 2.9% from two or more races.
  • About 5.4% of the population is of Hispanic ethnicity.
  • The median household size in Hampton is 2.5 persons.
  • About 44.3% of the residents are married couples living together.
  • On average, 22.6% of the residents are single and have children.

How fast can you commute to Hampton, VA?

Despite the impressive infrastructure, the roads are highly packed in Hampton and commuting during peak hours can be a challenging experience. You may take 22.4 minutes for the average one-way commute here, much higher than the US average of 26.4 minutes.

If you are keen to know how the city residents reach the office regularly, here are the latest stats:

  • About 83.4% drive their car alone.
  • About 8.2% carpool with others.
  • About 2.4% work from home.
  • Approximately 2.4% take mass transit.

What is the weather like in Hampton?

The climate in Hampton can also be a major factor in determining your moving plan. The city has a humid subtropical climate with hot and humid summers and mild winters. During the summer months, temperatures can reach the high 80s to low 90s while in winter they usually stick between the mid-30s to the mid-40s.

We’ve got a few additional facts about the Hampton climate:

  • The city receives about 46 inches of rain, on average, per year. The US average is 38 inches of rain per year.
  • Hampton averages 5 inches of snow per year. The US average is 28 inches of snow per year.
  • On average, the city gets about 212 sunny days per year against the US average of 205 sunny days.
  • The city receives some kind of precipitation, on average, 113 days per year in the form of rain, snow, sleet, or hail.
move to Hampton, VA

Top reasons to move to Hampton, VA

Hampton is one of the best places to relocate in Virginia as the city is beautiful and boasts a good lifestyle, plenty of jobs, a standard education, and unlimited fun.

Tip: While moving your home, the safety of your belongings is a priority, and you need a trustworthy mover at your side. Know the top-rated moving companies in Hampton, VA.

  • Racial diversity

    Hampton is home to a racially diverse community that makes it a welcoming and inclusive place to live.

  • Booming economy

    The economy of Hampton is thriving, with opportunities in various sectors such as technology, education, and healthcare contributing to its rapid growth.

  • Warm climate

    Hampton enjoys a warm climate, making it a comfortable place to live with plenty of sunny days and mild winters.

  • Jobs

    The job market in Hampton is strong, offering opportunities in both public and private sectors, especially in education, government services, and local industries.

  • Affordability

    Hampton provides an affordable cost of living, making it easier for individuals and families to settle and thrive in the city.

pros and cons Hampton, VA

Pros & Cons of Moving to Hampton, VA

When your next moving location is Hampton, it is good to have a clear picture of both the pluses and minuses of the city. Our experts have collated the common pros and cons of moving to Hampton for you to gauge both and decide whether living here will be a good option.

Pros of living in Hampton
  • Growing economy
  • Racially diverse people
  • Industry diversity
  • Warm climate
  • Plenty of jobs
  • Low crime rate
Cons of living in Hampton
  • Lack of nightlife
  • Heavy traffic
  • Poverty
  • Below average schools

Best neighborhoods in Hampton, VA

As you are seriously considering relocating to Hampton, it is natural to be curious about the decent neighborhoods in the city where you may buy or rent a house. You would prefer a decent neighborhood where you may raise a family, which is also safer and affordable. Knowing this, we’ve filtered a list of 10 based on safety, infrastructure, amenities, and much more.

Here’s our list of the 5 best neighborhoods in Hampton.

Rank Neighborhood Home Rental Home Value
1 Farmington $1,847 $516,267
2 Merrimac Shores / Raleigh Terrace $1,919 $407,887
3 Pine Chapel Village $1,943 $404,055
4 Bellview Terrace / East Hampton $1,455 $387,687
5 Hallwood / Buckroe Gardens $1,810 $386,871
6 Back River $1,857 $365,861
7 Newgate Village $2,650 $355,571
8 Buckroe / The Pointe at Salt Ponds $1,868 $354,987
9 Holiday Park $2,365 $354,509
10 Powhatan Park / Town Park on Briarfield $1,839 $345,828

What's the cost of living in Hampton?

A big positive factor for choosing Hampton as your next moving destination is the cost of living. You can comfortably live in the city on a reasonable budget. The cost of living here is 12.1% lower than the US average and 15.6% lower than the Virginia average. This means everything including food, healthcare, accommodation, transport, and other amenities is cheaper here.

We’ve got a break-up of the costs of basic things in Hampton which may give you a general idea:

Living Expense Hampton Virginia National Average
Overall 87.9 104.2 100
Grocery 96.1 99.6 100
Health 103.0 103.1 100
Housing 73.4 112.9 100
Median Home Cost $244,500 $343,200 $338,100
Utilities 97.1 99.3 100
Transportation 82.1 99.4 100
Miscellaneous 106.0 113.7 100

Overall, Hampton stands out as an affordable city with a lower cost of living compared to both Virginia and the national average. Housing is one of the most economical aspects of living in Hampton, making it an attractive choice for new movers.

Tip: When you've got a home to move to Hampton, getting the best moving quote will be your goal. Request moving company quotes to save on moving costs.

Start Your Moving Quote Now!

Compare up to 6 Moving Quotes and save up to 65% on Your Move.

Start My Quote Now

How is the job market in Hampton, VA?

Job Market Overview in Hampton, VA

If the job is the purpose of your relocation, you’ve got reasons to smile. Hampton’s job market is robust and the economy is growing, giving you opportunities to pick one of your choices. The city’s job growth rate is 12.38% and it is expected to grow higher in the coming days. The unemployment rate in Hampton is 7.2% and the future job growth over the next ten years is predicted to be 30.0%.

To help you, we’ve collated a few job-related facts in Hampton

  • The job growth in Hampton has been negative.
  • The future job growth over the next ten years is predicted to be 30.0%.
  • The unemployment rate here is 7.2%.
  • Jobs have decreased by 5.8% over the past year.
  • The average salary in Hampton is $52,866.
  • The median home cost in Hampton is $244,500.

Here is a breakdown table to better understand the Hampton job market:

Employment Information Hampton United States
The income per Cap $32,831 $37,638
Household Income $59,380 $69,021
Unemployment Rate 7.2 6
Recent Job Growth -5.8% -6.2%
Future Job Growth 30.0% 33.5%

Fastest Growing Jobs in Hampton, VA

You may be in the last leg of your moving process to Hampton and having an idea about the fastest-growing jobs here will help you know the type of businesses that flourish here. Knowing this, we’ve made a table of the fastest-growing jobs along with the average salary.

Rank Job Title % Growth Average Salary
1 Nurse Practitioner 133.4% $98,220
2 Physical Therapy Assistant 129.6% $54,210
3 Physician Assistant 127.5% $91,230
4 Operations Analyst 126.6% $101,927
5 Diagnostic Medical Sonographer 124.0% $71,800
6 Veterinary Technician 119.5% $31,110
7 Statistician 111.1% $71,430
8 Web Developer 107.4% $72,391
9 Emergency Medical Technician 106.9% $31,300
10 Information Security Assistant 104.7% $98,300

Top Career Options in Hampton

Maybe job is the reason for you moving and when you have a list of the best-paid jobs in Hampton, things will be easier in the city. Realizing this, we’ve got you a list of the highest-paying jobs in the city and nearby areas.

Rank Job Title Average Salary Entry Level Salary
1 Chief Medical Officer $201,000 $155,220
2 Medical Director $198,100 $129,000
3 Anesthesiologist, Pain Management Specialist $196,961 $128,000
4 Primary Care Pediatrician $191,060 $126,000
5 Finance Service Director $188,269 $131,000
6 President & Chief Operating Officer $181,000 $127,000
7 President of Operations $177,053 $124,000
8 Vice President, Field Operations $173,092 $122,000
9 Associate Medical Director $171,000 $118,000
10 Marketing Vice President $169,000 $116,000

Major industries in Hampton

Hampton’s economy is booming and it is easier to find a job in the city. Moreover, the job market seems diverse. This means if your intention of relocating here is a job, you are making the right move. You will be happy to know that we’ve got a list of major industries in Hampton, based on which you may analyze whether moving here will be a wise decision.

  • Manufacturing
  • Food processing
  • Healthcare
  • Retail

Best companies to work for if you’re moving to Hampton, VA

While you look for a job in Hampton, you will consider many aspects including the working atmosphere, company status, pay structure, and other perks. Fortunately, the city has many organizations that meet the expectations of employees and rank high in satisfaction ranks. To get you more, we’ve got a list of 10 firms where you may apply for one.

  • National Institute of Aerospace
  • Zel Technologies
  • ABC Health Care
  • Homeland Security Solutions
  • Tysinger Motor
  • Hampton University
  • ivWatch
  • VersAbility Resources
  • Faneuil
  • Peninsula Community Foundation

What's the average salary & income in Hampton, VA?

As you are in the process of moving to Hampton, it is normal to be curious about the salaries as your purpose for moving is to have a good life. The city has a booming economy and this naturally leads to a better package structure. Here, the average salary is $52,866 and anything above 51k is a good salary.

Here are a few informative points related to the average salary and income in Hampton:

  • Hampton’s average annual pay for average jobs is $52,866 a year.
  • Hampton’s average hourly pay for average jobs is $22.71 an hour.
  • Hampton’s average weekly pay for average jobs is $890 per week.
  • Hampton’s average monthly pay for average jobs is $3,750 per month.
  • Hampton’s top earners (90th percentile) make $82,000 annually.

How is the Housing Market in Hampton, VA?

Median Home Prices in Hampton, VA

Moving to Hampton, you will find the housing costs are much lower than most neighboring cities. Here, a medium-sized house costs $244,500 in comparison to the US average of $338,100. This difference creates opportunities for first-time homebuyers or those looking to upgrade their current home at an affordable price. While about 36.2% of the city residents stay in rented homes, 2.9% of homes are available for rent.

We’ve got a few housing facts that will help you:

  • Hampton’s median home cost is $244,500.
  • The median age of Hampton real estate is 44 years old.
  • The city’s home appreciation in the last 10 years has been 50.6%.
  • Renters make up 36.2% of the Hampton population.
  • About 2.9% of houses and apartments in the city are available to rent.

Average Rental Prices in Hampton, VA

After reaching Hampton, your initial days will be in rented homes. And knowing the home rentals here will help you analyze the living cost here. Knowing this, we thought of giving them:

  • Hampton’s average rent for a studio apartment is $1,100
  • Hampton’s average rent for a 1-bedroom home or apartment is $1,120
  • Hampton’s average rent for a 2-bedroom home or apartment is $1,310
  • Hampton’s average rent for a 3-bedroom home or apartment is $1,830
  • Hampton’s average rent for a 4-bedroom home or apartment is $2,230

What Are Taxes Like in Hampton, VA?

Your final income is calculated by cutting down the different taxes levied. When you move to Hampton, it would be good to have an idea about the different taxes in the city, which will help you know the final take-home money. This will also help you realize whether moving here is a worthy decision. Knowing this, our experts have collated the different taxes in Hampton.

Here are a few tax-related facts existing in Hampton, VA. 

  • Sales Tax Rate

    The Sales Tax Rate for Hampton is 6.0%. The US average is 7.3%.

  • Income Tax

    The income tax in Hampton is 5.8%. The US average is 4.6%.

  • Property Tax Rate

    The average property tax rate in Hampton is 0.72%.

What Are the Best Things to Do in Hampton, VA?

One of the best things about Hampton is the unlimited options to explore the outdoors. Once you relocate to Hampton, the evenings or weekends will be packed with adventure as the city has many options to explore nearby. Here are 10 top things to do in Hampton:

  • Dive into History at Fort Monroe National Monument

    Learn about Hampton’s rich history and the role Fort Monroe played in the Civil War.

  • Get Hands-On at the Virginia Air & Space Science Center

    Explore the wonders of aviation and space science with interactive exhibits and an IMAX theater.

  • Relax at Buckroe Beach and Park

    Enjoy a day of sun and sand at this beautiful beach park, perfect for family outings and picnics.

  • Explore the Great Outdoors in Hampton Parks

    Visit the various parks in Hampton for hiking, fishing, and other outdoor activities.

  • See Vintage Aircraft at the Air Power Park

    Take a walk through history with exhibits of vintage military aircraft and other aviation memorabilia.

  • Take a Hampton Harbor Cruise

    Enjoy a scenic boat tour of Hampton’s harbor, offering beautiful views of the waterfront and local landmarks.

  • Attend Hampton’s Annual Festivals

    Experience local culture and celebrations at one of Hampton’s many annual festivals throughout the year.

  • Shop and Dine in Downtown Hampton

    Explore the charming downtown area, where you’ll find unique shops, restaurants, and cafes.

  • Visit the Hampton University Museum

    Discover African-American history and culture through exhibits at this prestigious museum.

  • See a Show at The American Theatre

    Enjoy a live performance at this beautiful historic theater, offering a range of musical and theatrical performances.

How Safe Is Hampton, VA?

You will be happy to know that the crime rate in Hampton is much lower than the US average. The city is much safer to raise a family and if you intend to live in a peaceful setting, you may start packing the bags to the city. The crime rate in Hampton is 17.4 compared to the US average of 22.7, which makes it safer than 9% of US cities. Your chance of becoming a victim of violent crime is 1 in 368 and about 51% of the residents feel the city is utmost safe to live in.

  • Violent Crime Rate

    Hampton’s violent crime is 17.4 while the US average is 22.7.

  • Property Crime Rate

    Hampton’s property crime is 47.3 while the US average is 35.4.

  • Chance of Violent Crime

    Your chance of being a violent crime victim is 1 in 368 in Hampton.

  • Chance of Property Crime

    Your chance of being a property crime victim is 1 in 34 in Hampton.

  • Feeling Safe in Hampton

    About 51% of the population feels safe in Hampton.

  • Safety Compared to US Cities

    Hampton is safer than 9% of US cities.

Best Schools & Universities in Hampton, VA

Whether you're still schooling or have school-age kids or not, if you're moving to Hampton, VA, you'd most likely be interested in the best schools in the area. Here we've made a list of the best elementary, middle, high, and colleges in Hampton. Check out the list below:

Contact Info

MoverJunction.com
20130 Lakeview Center Plaza
Ashburn, VA 20147

888-901-4841

mobile-with-hand