Hampton, VA, known as 'The City on the Bay,' offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern urban amenities. Located in Hampton Roads, Hampton is a large city that serves as a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like Norfolk (20 miles) and Newport News (10 miles) enhance its status as a central point in the region. Hampton's blend of scenic landscapes, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.
Hampton is home to several iconic landmarks, including the Virginia Air and Space Center, the historic Fort Monroe, and the scenic Buckroe Beach. The city offers a variety of attractions, from the beautiful Sandy Bottom Nature Park to the bustling Peninsula Town Center, known for its shopping and dining. Hampton's dining scene is diverse, offering everything from seafood cuisine to international dishes.
Annual events such as the Hampton Jazz Festival and the Blackbeard Pirate Festival highlight the city's vibrant cultural scene and provide unique entertainment opportunities for residents and visitors. These events celebrate Hampton's rich cultural heritage and community spirit. Prestigious institutions like Hampton University contribute to the city's academic and cultural vibrancy, fostering a thriving intellectual community.
The arts and culture scene in Hampton is dynamic and diverse, with numerous theaters, music venues, and art galleries. The American Theatre and the Hampton History Museum are just a few of the cultural landmarks that showcase the city's commitment to the arts. Living in Hampton provides ample opportunities to engage with art, music, and history, making it an exciting place to call home.
Hampton’s community is welcoming and diverse, creating a friendly environment for newcomers. The city is home to professional sports teams like the Norfolk Admirals (ECHL) and the Peninsula Pilots (Coastal Plain League), providing plenty of excitement for sports fans. Major industries in Hampton include healthcare, education, and military, with significant employers such as Sentara Healthcare and Langley Air Force Base driving economic growth. The city has extensive public transit options, including buses and light rail, making it easy to navigate.
| Statistic | Buckroe | Hampton | Virginia |
| Average one way commute | n/a | 23min | 28min |
| Workers who drive to work | 77.4% | 80.8% | 77.4% |
| Workers who carpool | 13.7% | 8.6% | 9.5% |
| Workers who take public transit | 2.5% | 2.4% | 4.5% |
| Workers who bicycle | 0.4% | 0.2% | 0.4% |
| Workers who walk | 1.4% | 2.1% | 2.4% |
| Working from home | 4.0% | 4.6% | 4.7% |
Here are the best places to live in Virginia
Check out the 10 most dangerous cities in Virginia
See the best places to live in Hampton
These are the largest cities in Virginia