Comparing these two cities – what you need to know
If you’re thinking of moving to a city in Virginia but you can’t decide between Portsmouth and Newport News, this guide will help.
There are a lot of things to consider before moving your entire life to a new location. And everyone has different needs and priorities. While many places in Virginia and around the country are attractive, how will you decide where to call home?
Let’s look at some of the similarities and differences between two of the most popular places in Virginia.
Is Portsmouth cheaper than Newport News?
For most people cost of living is a huge consideration when they decide where to live. Virginia is a great state overall compared to the national average. But how do Portsmouth and Newport News compare?
- Cost of living is .9% lower in Portsmouth.
- Housing is 18.3% lower in Portsmouth.
- Transportation is 2% lower in Newport News.
Winner: Portsmouth
Is Newport News bigger than Portsmouth?
If you prefer small town vibes to the big city, size matters! Or, if you want to live somewhere with lots of nightlife and culture, you may gravitate to bigger metropolitan areas.
- The Newport News population is 184,587
- The Portsmouth population is 97,840
Newport News is considerably larger than Portsmouth. If you prefer a smaller population, choose Portsmouth.
Winner: Portsmouth
Distance from Virginia military bases
There are many military bases all around Virginia. Let’s take a look at the distance of each city from the various bases in the state.
US Army Garrison Fort A.P. Hill HQ
Portsmouth: 137 miles
Newport News: 107 miles
Fort Pickett
Portsmouth: 113 miles
Newport News: 123 miles
U.S. Army Port
Portsmouth: 5 miles
Newport News: 29 miles
Fort Lee
Portsmouth: 79 miles
Newport News: 79 miles
Quantico USMC Base
Portsmouth: 167 miles
Newport News: 137 miles
Fort Lee MEPS
Portsmouth: 74 miles
Newport News: 81 miles
Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek–Fort Story
Portsmouth: 14 miles
Newport News: 23 miles
Fort Belvoir
Portsmouth: 188 miles
Newport News: 158 miles
Winner: Tie
Does Portsmouth or Newport News have better weather?
Hampton is just over 30 minutes from Portsmouth. They both have similar hot Virginia summers and gorgeous fall colors. As for weather, the two cities are not too different.
- Portsmouth, Virginia gets 47 inches of rain, on average, per year.
- Portsmouth averages 5 inches of snow per year.
- On average, there are 217 sunny days per year in Portsmouth.
- Newport News, Virginia gets 46 inches of rain, on average, per year.
- Newport News averages 5 inches of snow per year.
- On average, there are 215 sunny days per year in Newport News.
Winner: Portsmouth
What is Newport News famous for?
Located at the junction of the James River and Chesapeake Bay, Newport News spans about 23 miles along both waterways, making it a vital strategic location. Its rich past is intertwined with numerous industries, such as shipbuilding, technological advancements, and international commerce, resulting in a dynamic and diverse community.
What is Portsmouth famous for?
Portsmouth, Virginia holds a special place as a Coastal Virginia gem with a long-standing history as a seaport. Its allure lies in the mix of vintage homes dating back three centuries, locally-owned restaurants, quaint shops, and stunning waterfront that overlooks the thriving Hampton Roads harbor. With a reputation for hospitality since its establishment in 1752, Portsmouth exudes a chic and trendy vibe, despite its small size. The city boasts a mesmerizing blend of historic houses, one-of-a-kind stores and dining options, and picturesque waterfront vistas, making it an enduring Coastal Virginia treasure.
Kelvin Reed can help you find the right home in Virginia
Trying to decide between Portsmouth or Newport News can be a tough choice. They’re both amazing and friendly southern cities. At the end of the day, it’s up to you to decide what you want or don’t want in the place you call home.If you’re ready to buy a house Kelvin Reed is a top realtor and can help. To find the perfect home in Virginia call Your Home Sold Guaranteed Realty – Reeds Real Estate. Give his office a call at (757) 799-4824 and start house hunting today.
