Fast Facts About Living on US Coast Guard Base Portsmouth
What to know about living on US Coast Guard Base Portsmouth.
Distance from:
- Chesapeake, VA: 26 min
- Portsmouth, VA: 14 min
- Norfolk, VA: 17 min
- Richmond, VA: 1hr 32 min
Nearest major airport:
- Richmond International Airport (RIC): 1hr 28 min
- Norfolk International Airport (ORF): 35 min
Branch of military: Coast Guard
Established: 1939
Commanding Officer: Captain John T. Dewey
Living on US Coast Guard Base Portsmouth
If you’re an unaccompanied service member, living on US Coast Guard Base Portsmouth is possible through the on-base barracks. Members who rank E3 and below are given top priority, though higher ranks may get a mandatory assignment to the barracks if there are empty spots.
Aside from the barracks, there is no other on-base housing at the base. Instead, service members can utilize their basic allowance for housing (BAH) to find a home in one of the surrounding communities.
Several great cities offer a short commute to US Coast Guard Base Portsmouth. An experienced realtor for veterans can help you find the right fit for your needs.
Portsmouth
Median sale price: $225,000
Portsmouth is the closest city to the base. With a population of a little under 98,000, the coastal city is one of the largest in the Hampton Roads metropolitan area. Overall, Portsmouth has a suburban atmosphere, making it a good home for single service members as well as service members accompanied by their families. Portsmouth is known for blending the city’s long history as a seaport with its modern restaurants, shops, and vibrant culture.
Chesapeake
Median sale price: $370,000
Chesapeake has a population of a little under $250,000 and offers a sparse suburban environment. It’s the second-most populous city in Virginia and is known as a good place for families since it has high-quality public schools. It’s also close to nature trails and recreational areas like the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge and the beautiful beaches of Virginia Beach.
Norfolk
Median sale price: $289,950
Norfolk is across the Elizabeth River from Portsmouth and offers a 20-minute commute to US Coast Guard Base Portsmouth. With a population of a little over 238,000, Norfolk is considered an urban area. Downtown Norfolk has a busy nightlife, and there are plenty of restaurants, sports bars, and shopping centers in the area, which is within walking distance from the surrounding neighborhoods.
Hampton
Median sale price: $259,500
Located about 25 minutes away from US Coast Guard Base Portsmouth, Hampton is another city worth considering. With a population of around 136,000, it offers a dense suburban atmosphere, with a good mix of restaurants, parks, and above-average public schools. The city is home to the Fort Monroe National Monument, the Hampton Coliseum, Buckroe Beach and Park, and other historic attractions to explore.
Newport News
Median sale price: $280,000
Newport News is located about half an hour away from US Coast Guard Base Portsmouth. It’s another one of the largest cities in the Hampton Roads metropolitan area, with a population of around 186,000. It offers a mix of urban and dense suburban characteristics, which means that residents can enjoy the benefits of both city and suburban living. Additionally, Newport News provides easy access to natural areas such as Plum Tree Island National Wildlife Refuge, the Grandview Nature Preserve, and the coastline along the Chesapeake Bay.
Suffolk
Median sale price: $329,500
Located half an hour from the base, Suffolk is another great place to live near US Coast Guard Base Portsmouth. With a population of a little over 93,000, it’s a slightly smaller city compared to other areas in the Hampton Roads metropolitan area. The city has a more sparse suburban atmosphere, making it a good place for families looking for a little more space.
What Is There To Do Around US Coast Guard Base Portsmouth?
Wherever you decide to live in the Hampton Roads metropolitan area, you’re only a short drive away from plenty of activities and local attractions. Some of the most popular places to visit for locals and tourists alike include:
- Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge. This natural area is 113,000 acres and offers a variety of hiking trails, fishing and hunting spots, camping areas, and opportunities for wildlife photography.
- Virginia Beach Boardwalk. Along this three-mile-long boardwalk, you can find restaurants, shops, bike rental shops, and street performers. And during the summer, you can catch live music at one of the four ocean-front stages.
- Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum. Get to know the 250-year history of the oldest and largest naval shipyard in the US
- Battleship Wisconsin. Take a guided tour of this historic ship, which is one of the largest and last ships constructed by the US Navy.
- First Landing State Park. Visit the site where the settlers came to settle in Jamestown in 1607. The 2,888-acre park features 20 miles of trails and 1.5 miles of beach for recreational activities and enjoying nature.
Buy a Home in the Hampton Roads Area With Our Team
If you’re looking to buy a home in the Hampton Roads metropolitan area close to US Coast Guard Base Portsmouth, our team at Your Home Sold Guaranteed Realty - Reeds Real Estate is here to assist you. With years of experience working with veteran home buyers, we can help you find the home of your dreams.
What makes us different from other realtors in the area? As a veteran-owned and operated business, we understand the unique needs of veteran home buyers, including navigating the VA home loan process.
In addition, we pride ourselves on our commitment to excellent customer service, in-depth knowledge of the military community, and unique buyer guarantees. This includes our Buy it Back Guarantee, which acts as an insurance policy when purchasing your new home.
To learn more about how we’re the best realtors in Hampton Roads, get in touch with us by filling out the form on this page or calling us directly at (757) 799-4824 to get immediate help.
