Chesapeake County, VA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
253,091
0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$92,936/yr
3.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
96,925
0.8% year-over-year change

Chesapeake County population

How many people live in Chesapeake County

Chesapeake County is home to 253,091 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49% of Chesapeake County locals are male, and 51% are female.

Total population
253,091
0.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49%
124,148
Female
51%
128,943
Value Percent YoY change
Male 124,148 49% 0.5%
Female 128,943 51% 0.8%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Chesapeake County is 37, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.9% are children under 15, then 12.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 28.5% of the population, while another 24.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
37
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.9%
15 to 24
12.3%
25 to 44
28.5%
45 to 64
24.7%
Over 65
14.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 50,289 19.9% 0.1%
15 to 24 31,205 12.3% -0.0%
25 to 44 72,193 28.5% 0.7%
45 to 64 62,555 24.7% -0.6%
Over 65 36,849 14.6% 4.2%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Chesapeake County, 91.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 6.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 55% of locals are Caucasian, 29.2% are African American and 3.9% have Asian roots. Another 0.2% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 2.6% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 9.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
91.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
6.3%
Non-citizens
2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 232,104 91.7% 0.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 16,025 6.3% 2.7%
Non-citizens 4,962 2% -15.7%
Racial breakdown
White
55%
Black or African American
29.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
3.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
9.1%
Other
2.6%
Value Percent
White 139,327 55%
Black or African American 73,826 29.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 457 0.2%
Asian 9,781 3.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 140 0.1%
Two or more races 22,954 9.1%
Other 6,606 2.6%

Households in Chesapeake County

A peek inside Chesapeake County households

Chesapeake County has 93,735 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 71.1% are families, while the remaining 28.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
93,735
1.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
27,085
Family households
66,650
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 27,085 28.9% 6.2%
Family households 66,650 71.1% -0.5%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Chesapeake County

The housing landscape of Chesapeake County

Chesapeake County's housing consists of 96,925 units, with 67.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 13.5% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 1.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
96,925
0.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 65,337 67.4%
1 unit, attached 13,124 13.5%
2 units 1,518 1.6%
3 or 4 units 3,589 3.7%
5 to 9 units 3,640 3.8%
10 to 19 units 3,528 3.6%
20 to 49 units 1,866 1.9%
50 or more units 2,804 2.9%
Mobile home 1,515 1.6%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 4 0%
Homes built since 2020
1,848
32.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Chesapeake County

In Chesapeake County, the median construction year is 1990. About 2.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 1.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 13.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 13.7% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.9% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,441 2.5% 13.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,701 1.8% -1.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 5,618 5.8% 6.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 8,825 9.1% 0.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 12,088 12.5% -2.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 19,577 20.2% -0.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 18,508 19.1% -1.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 13,080 13.5% 2.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 13,239 13.7% 1.4%
Built in 2020 or later 1,848 1.9% 32.3%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Chesapeake County occupancy rates

Out of the 93,735 occupied housing units in Chesapeake County, 74.4% are owner-occupied, while 25.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 3.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
93,735
1.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
24,032
Owner occupied
69,703
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 24,032 25.6% -0.9%
Owner occupied 69,703 74.4% 2.1%
Unoccupied housing units
3.3%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Chesapeake County housing costs

Housing costs in Chesapeake County come to a median of $1,701 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,634.

Median housing costs per month
$1,701/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Chesapeake County
$1,634/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Chesapeake County

Chesapeake County education at a glance

About 30.9% of the population in Chesapeake County went to high school, while 23.2% pursued college studies. Another 9.6% earned an associate degree and 21.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 13.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 3,823 2% -9.7%
High school diploma 59,216 30.9% 0.7%
College diploma 44,548 23.2% 0.6%
Associate degree 18,444 9.6% -0.3%
Bachelor's degree 40,800 21.3% 1.1%
Graduate degree 25,058 13.1% 4.0%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Chesapeake County

How much people earn in Chesapeake County

The average annual household income in Chesapeake County was $111,960 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $92,936, reflecting a +3.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Chesapeake County
$111,960/year
1.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Chesapeake County
$92,936/year
3.3% year-over-year change

Chesapeake County income by age

In Chesapeake County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $96,458. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $110,833 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $57,144, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $65,816 in earnings. Overall, 90.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $57,144 3.2%
25 - 44 $96,458 7.4%
45 - 64 $110,833 2.9%
Over 65 $65,816 -0.1%
Above poverty level
223,153
Below poverty level
23,270
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 223,153 90.6% -0.0%
Below poverty level 23,270 9.4% 9.6%

Employment in Chesapeake County

Workforce and job types in Chesapeake County

80.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 19.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.7% run their own businesses, 59.9% are employed by private companies, and 22.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
95,615
Blue collar
23,294
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 95,615 80.4% 0.9%
Blue collar 23,294 19.6% -0.7%
Employer type
Self employees
8.7%
Private companies
59.9%
Governmental workers
22.8%
Not for profit companies
8.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 10,361 8.7% -2.8%
Private companies 71,280 59.9% 0.9%
Governmental workers 27,158 22.8% 2.2%
Not for profit companies 10,110 8.5% -1.8%

Transportation in Chesapeake County

How people get around in Chesapeake County

In Chesapeake County, the average commute time is 102 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 97.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
102 min
30.8% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 104,264 97.8% -1.5%
Taxicab 92 0.1% -20.7%
Bus or trolleybus 649 0.6% 2.7%
Railroad 53 0% N/A
Motorcycle 116 0.1% 14.8%
Bicycle 109 0.1% 55.7%
Walk 1,288 1.2% 14.4%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Chesapeake County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
23320 59,108 25,741 $84,305 $106,086
23321 40,176 14,562 $101,568 $122,722
23322 66,956 22,096 $134,880 $156,960
23323 43,043 14,631 $108,730 $122,887
23324 24,670 9,241 $57,045 $72,793
23325 19,138 7,464 $69,909 $90,310

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FAQs about Chesapeake County demographics 

What is the total population of Chesapeake County?

Chesapeake County has a total population of 253,091 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +0.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Chesapeake County?

The gender ratio in Chesapeake County is as follows:
  • 49% males (124,148 residents)
  • 51% females (128,943 residents)

What is the median age in Chesapeake County?

The median age in Chesapeake County is 37.

What is the age distribution of the population in Chesapeake County?

The age distribution in Chesapeake County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.9% (50,289 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.3% (31,205 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 28.5% (72,193 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.7% (62,555 residents)
  • Over 65: 14.6% (36,849 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Chesapeake County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Chesapeake County is as follows:
  • White: 55% (139,327 residents)
  • Black or African American: 29.2% (73,826 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (457 residents)
  • Asian: 3.9% (9,781 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (140 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 9.1% (22,954 residents)
  • Other: 2.6% (6,606 residents)

What percentage of the population in Chesapeake County are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 91.7% of the population in Chesapeake County.

How many housing units are there in Chesapeake County?

There are 96,925 housing units in Chesapeake County, reflecting a +0.8% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Chesapeake County and what is the average household size?

Chesapeake County has a total of 93,735 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Chesapeake County?

Chesapeake County has a median household income of $92,936, representing a +3.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Chesapeake County?

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 80.4% (95,615 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 19.6% (23,294 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.7% (10,361 residents)
  • Private companies: 59.9% (71,280 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 22.8% (27,158 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.5% (10,110 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025