10 Largest Cities In Virginia
- Virginia Beach
- Chesapeake
- Arlington
- Norfolk
- Richmond
- Newport News
- Alexandria
- Hampton
- Roanoke
- Portsmouth
1. Virginia Beach
The largest city in Virginia is Virginia Beach, which has a population of 457,684. This oceanic town has become a major tourist location as well as one of the most expansive cities in Virginia.
It’s easy to see why. There are many things to do here, from fine dining to nights out by the seaside. If you are a fan of picturesque views, this place is it. It’s also relatively safe as far as cities go, though it’s not the most population-dense.
2. Chesapeake
The second biggest city in Virginia by population is Chesapeake. Chesapeake has a population of 247,172 and is hard to ignore if you visit Virginia as a tourist. The name is everywhere. The city named after the Chesapeake Bay is also one of the state’s hottest pieces of real estate, with prices booming in recent years.
If you are a fan of seafood, this is a great place to be. Chesapeake has lovely restaurants and even more beautiful views to take in. It’s currently the 10th largest city on the Mid-Atlantic grid, so it’s definitely large, even if it has more of a small-town feel.
3. Arlington
With a population of around 240,000, Arlington is a surprising name for many to see on this list. This Virginia city does not feel like a city by any means. It feels more like a large, semi-crowded town. But it’s highly dense and also a major city.
If you want to live here, watch out. This has a high price tag and a high quality of living. It’s known for having tons of American patriot spots. People note that it’s a great place to live.
4. Norfolk
Norfolk is also one of the largest cities in Virginia. Out of all the cities on this list, Norfolk is one of the only cities to experience negative population growth in recent years. But don’t let that stop you. Norfolk is a friendly city that tops the charts with a population of 236,000.
This coastal city boasts a perfect blend of homey and professional—all with a noticeable urban bent. The population density is high. Oh, and if you are a fan of museums, don’t worry. Norfolk has several museums in and around the city outskirts.
5. Richmond
Richmond is the capital of Virginia, and is also one of the biggest cities in Virignia by population. Richmond is home to 226,500 residents and is a great place to live if you want to enjoy the state’s history as a former capital of the United States.
Lots of museums and picturesque parks dot the area here. You'll enjoy the Richmond area if you are looking for a good balance of history, fun, and good schools. (Oh, and political interns are amazingly advantaged here!)
6. Newport News
It’s hard to say “Newport News” and not sound like you are bragging. This city boasts a population of around 188,000, making it a fairly large city by most standards. It’s not surprising, either.
Most people love living here because of the balmy Southern weather, the highly-rated schools, and the low unemployment rate. It’s been rated one of the best places to live in Virginia. Unsurprisingly, it’s also a hotspot for people who come from highly esteemed families.
7. Alexandria
Nestled in the heart of Virginia, Alexandria ranks seventh in the most populated cities in Virginia. This city currently has a population slightly above 165,000, but don’t let that fool you. It’s still a reasonably populous city with a lot of “big city” life.
A good restaurant scene, proximity to nightlife hotspots, and decent schools. Despite its low population, it’s also fairly urban. Its high population density means that you will feel like you’re right in the heart of Brooklyn without the crazy price tag.
8. Hampton
With a population of around 137,000, Hampton is also one of the largest cities in Virginia. This beachside city happens to have a lot in common with Newport News. That really shouldn’t surprise you. It’s right next to Newport News, right on the water.
Hampton has tons of great things to see, including a gorgeous boardwalk and great restaurants. Most people in the area prefer to live here due to the plentiful festivals and lively arts district. Hampton is a great place to live your dreams if you want to unlock your creative side.
9. Roanoke
Roanoke is the last city on our list of the biggest cities in Virginia that is home to over 100,000 residents. It also happens to be named after the lost settlement that was loosely based in the same part of Virginia back when the first group of European settlers came to America. Spooky, right?
Well, there’s no need to be scared in this town. Though this is a city, it definitely has a fairly suburban feel thanks to its many trails and rolling hills. You might also recognize Roanoke for its Mill Mountain Star or Mill Mountain Zoo. Yep, it’s still tourist-friendly.
10. Portsmouth
Where to begin with Portsmouth? As the 10th largest city in the state of Virginia, Portsmouth has just short of 100,000 people. (97,000, to be precise.) This small city has a lot to offer families who want to have a high-class life without the high-end price tag.
Portsmouth offers plenty of beautiful trails, a decent unemployment rate, and friendly locals. Maybe that’s why most people agree that it’s one of the best places for kids to grow up in.