Newport News County, VA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
186,870
-0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$72,076/yr
2.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
83,542
0.1% year-over-year change

Newport News County population

How many people live in Newport News County

Newport News County is home to 186,870 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.6% of Newport News County locals are male, and 51.4% are female.

Total population
186,870
-0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.6%
90,804
Female
51.4%
96,066
Value Percent YoY change
Male 90,804 48.6% -0.5%
Female 96,066 51.4% -0.2%
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 Newport News County is 35, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.5% are children under 15, then 15.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 29.5% of the population, while another 21.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14% are 65 or older.

Median age
35
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.5%
15 to 24
15.3%
25 to 44
29.5%
45 to 64
21.6%
Over 65
14%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 36,516 19.5% -1.1%
15 to 24 28,518 15.3% 0.1%
25 to 44 55,138 29.5% -0.5%
45 to 64 40,453 21.6% -1.7%
Over 65 26,245 14% 2.6%
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 Newport News County, 89% of the population are US-born citizens, while 7.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 40.6% of locals are Caucasian, 41.5% are African American and 3.3% have Asian roots. Another 0.3% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 3.3% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 10.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
89%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
7.7%
Non-citizens
3.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 166,349 89% 0.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 14,372 7.7% -1.4%
Non-citizens 6,149 3.3% -7.7%
Racial breakdown
White
40.6%
Black or African American
41.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
3.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
10.9%
Other
3.3%
Value Percent
White 75,969 40.6%
Black or African American 77,537 41.5%
American Indian and Alaska Native 509 0.3%
Asian 6,147 3.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 182 0.1%
Two or more races 20,345 10.9%
Other 6,181 3.3%

Households in Newport News County

A peek inside Newport News County households

Newport News County has 77,426 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 56.8% are families, while the remaining 43.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
77,426
0.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
33,415
Family households
44,011
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 33,415 43.2% 1.3%
Family households 44,011 56.8% -0.7%
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 Newport News County

The housing landscape of Newport News County

Newport News County's housing consists of 83,542 units, with 49.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 10.8% 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 2.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
83,542
0.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 41,650 49.9%
1 unit, attached 9,066 10.8%
2 units 1,101 1.3%
3 or 4 units 6,078 7.3%
5 to 9 units 10,544 12.6%
10 to 19 units 5,654 6.8%
20 to 49 units 2,477 3%
50 or more units 4,887 5.8%
Mobile home 1,974 2.4%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 111 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
323
13.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Newport News County

In Newport News County, the median construction year is 1983. About 4.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 9.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 7.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 4,001 4.8% 6.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 3,708 4.4% -4.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 9,097 10.9% 6.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 12,896 15.4% 3.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 13,300 15.9% -3.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 14,344 17.2% 1.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 11,555 13.8% -0.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 8,271 9.9% -3.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 6,047 7.2% -5.8%
Built in 2020 or later 323 0.4% 13.7%
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.

Newport News County occupancy rates

Out of the 77,426 occupied housing units in Newport News County, 47.8% are owner-occupied, while 52.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
77,426
0.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
40,426
Owner occupied
37,000
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 40,426 52.2% -0.1%
Owner occupied 37,000 47.8% 0.5%
Unoccupied housing units
7.3%
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.

Newport News County housing costs

Housing costs in Newport News County come to a median of $1,413 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,358.

Median housing costs per month
$1,413/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 Newport News County
$1,358/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 Newport News County

Newport News County education at a glance

About 37.3% of the population in Newport News County went to high school, while 23.5% pursued college studies. Another 9% earned an associate degree and 17.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 9.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 4,284 3% 7.6%
High school diploma 53,564 37.3% -0.5%
College diploma 33,796 23.5% -4.9%
Associate degree 12,903 9% -3.7%
Bachelor's degree 25,016 17.4% 7.2%
Graduate degree 14,024 9.8% 0.8%
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 Newport News County

How much people earn in Newport News County

The average annual household income in Newport News County was $86,290 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $72,076, reflecting a +2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Newport News County
$86,290/year
3.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Newport News County
$72,076/year
2.0% year-over-year change

Newport News County income by age

In Newport News County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $68,876. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $86,596 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $55,958, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $52,619 in earnings. Overall, 85.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $55,958 18.9%
25 - 44 $68,876 -0.7%
45 - 64 $86,596 1.1%
Over 65 $52,619 -5.3%
Above poverty level
152,314
Below poverty level
25,696
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 152,314 85.6% 0.7%
Below poverty level 25,696 14.4% -4.0%

Employment in Newport News County

Workforce and job types in Newport News County

75% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 25% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.5% run their own businesses, 68% are employed by private companies, and 19.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
64,284
Blue collar
21,398
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 64,284 75% -1.1%
Blue collar 21,398 25% 2.8%
Employer type
Self employees
6.5%
Private companies
68%
Governmental workers
19.3%
Not for profit companies
6.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 5,586 6.5% -3.2%
Private companies 58,233 68% -0.5%
Governmental workers 16,523 19.3% 3.1%
Not for profit companies 5,340 6.2% -2.1%

Transportation in Newport News County

How people get around in Newport News County

In Newport News County, the average commute time is 74 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 93.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
74 min
15.6% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 76,290 93.2% -0.9%
Taxicab 319 0.4% -20.4%
Bus or trolleybus 1,379 1.7% -21.0%
Railroad 8 0% -11.1%
Ferryboat 18 0% 0.0%
Motorcycle 374 0.5% -8.3%
Bicycle 196 0.2% -20.6%
Walk 3,298 4% -2.9%
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 Newport News County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
23601 26,645 11,493 $71,279 $90,020
23602 42,265 17,668 $79,475 $114,286
23603 3,504 1,582 $88,246 $97,920
23604 4,416 751 $80,047 $87,370
23605 13,332 6,321 $53,815 $62,434
23606 29,971 12,422 $72,874 $96,208
23607 23,096 9,271 $42,334 $55,268
23608 43,641 17,918 $71,126 $86,813

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FAQs about Newport News County demographics 

What is the total population of Newport News County?

Newport News County has a total population of 186,870 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 -0.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Newport News County?

The gender ratio in Newport News County is as follows:
  • 48.6% males (90,804 residents)
  • 51.4% females (96,066 residents)

What is the median age in Newport News County?

The median age in Newport News County is 35.

What is the age distribution of the population in Newport News County?

The age distribution in Newport News County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.5% (36,516 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 15.3% (28,518 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 29.5% (55,138 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 21.6% (40,453 residents)
  • Over 65: 14% (26,245 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Newport News County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Newport News County is as follows:
  • White: 40.6% (75,969 residents)
  • Black or African American: 41.5% (77,537 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (509 residents)
  • Asian: 3.3% (6,147 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (182 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 10.9% (20,345 residents)
  • Other: 3.3% (6,181 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 89% of the population in Newport News County.

How many housing units are there in Newport News County?

There are 83,542 housing units in Newport News County, reflecting a +0.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Newport News County has a total of 77,426 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Newport News County?

Newport News County has a median household income of $72,076, representing a +2.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for Newport News County?

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

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 75% (64,284 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 25% (21,398 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.5% (5,586 residents)
  • Private companies: 68% (58,233 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 19.3% (16,523 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.2% (5,340 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