Norfolk, VA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
233,596
-0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$66,109/yr
3.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
103,524
1.0% year-over-year change

Norfolk population

How many people live in Norfolk

Norfolk is home to 233,596 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.7% of Norfolk locals are male, and 49.3% are female.

Total population
233,596
-0.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.7%
118,334
Female
49.3%
115,262
Value Percent YoY change
Male 118,334 50.7% -0.8%
Female 115,262 49.3% -0.4%
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 Norfolk is 33, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.4% are children under 15, then 17.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 31.5% of the population, while another 20.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 13% are 65 or older.

Median age
32.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.4%
15 to 24
17.7%
25 to 44
31.5%
45 to 64
20.4%
Over 65
13%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 40,586 17.4% -1.7%
15 to 24 41,410 17.7% -1.2%
25 to 44 73,608 31.5% -0.0%
45 to 64 47,552 20.4% -2.3%
Over 65 30,440 13% 3.0%
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 Norfolk, 90% of the population are US-born citizens, while 6.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 43.2% of locals are Caucasian, 39.6% are African American and 3.7% have Asian roots. Another 0.7% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 3.8% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
90%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
6.4%
Non-citizens
3.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 210,211 90% -0.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 14,870 6.4% 1.8%
Non-citizens 8,515 3.6% 2.4%
Racial breakdown
White
43.2%
Black or African American
39.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.7%
Asian
3.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
9%
Other
3.8%
Value Percent
White 100,966 43.2%
Black or African American 92,432 39.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1,544 0.7%
Asian 8,544 3.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 225 0.1%
Two or more races 20,946 9%
Other 8,939 3.8%

Households in Norfolk

A peek inside Norfolk households

Norfolk has 94,965 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 55.5% are families, while the remaining 44.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
94,965
0.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
42,277
Family households
52,688
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 42,277 44.5% 2.0%
Family households 52,688 55.5% -0.6%
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 Norfolk

The housing landscape of Norfolk

Norfolk's housing consists of 103,524 units, with 48.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 7.5% 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 0.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
103,524
1.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 50,630 48.9%
1 unit, attached 7,798 7.5%
2 units 6,319 6.1%
3 or 4 units 7,891 7.6%
5 to 9 units 9,890 9.6%
10 to 19 units 6,600 6.4%
20 to 49 units 4,611 4.4%
50 or more units 8,991 8.7%
Mobile home 717 0.7%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 77 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
1,276
76.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Norfolk

In Norfolk, the median construction year is 1964. About 15.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 9.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 8% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 15,894 15.4% 1.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 10,111 9.8% -2.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 19,941 19.3% -1.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 13,319 12.9% 4.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 10,486 10.1% -0.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 10,819 10.4% -3.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 6,215 6% 2.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 7,203 7% 1.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 8,260 8% 3.0%
Built in 2020 or later 1,276 1.2% 76.7%
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.

Norfolk occupancy rates

Out of the 94,965 occupied housing units in Norfolk, 46.3% are owner-occupied, while 53.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
94,965
0.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
50,965
Owner occupied
44,000
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 50,965 53.7% -0.7%
Owner occupied 44,000 46.3% 1.9%
Unoccupied housing units
8.3%
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.

Norfolk housing costs

Housing costs in Norfolk come to a median of $1,416 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,321.

Median housing costs per month
$1,416/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 Norfolk
$1,321/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 Norfolk

Norfolk education at a glance

About 34.4% of the population in Norfolk went to high school, while 26.4% pursued college studies. Another 7.6% earned an associate degree and 17.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 11.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 5,379 2.9% 3.1%
High school diploma 63,916 34.4% -1.9%
College diploma 49,085 26.4% -1.0%
Associate degree 14,103 7.6% -2.9%
Bachelor's degree 31,969 17.2% 0.1%
Graduate degree 21,608 11.6% 5.3%
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 Norfolk

How much people earn in Norfolk

The average annual household income in Norfolk was $91,610 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $66,109, reflecting a +3.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Norfolk
$91,610/year
4.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Norfolk
$66,109/year
3.3% year-over-year change

Norfolk income by age

In Norfolk, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $71,124. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $76,531 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $45,839, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $53,765 in earnings. Overall, 83.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $45,839 0.2%
25 - 44 $71,124 3.8%
45 - 64 $76,531 2.8%
Over 65 $53,765 3.7%
Above poverty level
176,585
Below poverty level
34,571
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 176,585 83.6% 0.6%
Below poverty level 34,571 16.4% -4.8%

Average renter income in Norfolk

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Norfolk, their median household income was $42,716 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 37.1%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$42,716
Rent-to-income ratio
37.1%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Norfolk

Workforce and job types in Norfolk

The job market in Norfolk is powered by 102,915 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 79.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 20.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7% run their own businesses, 62.9% are employed by private companies, and 20.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
102,915
0.0% year-over-year change
White collar
82,018
Blue collar
20,897
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 82,018 79.7% -0.4%
Blue collar 20,897 20.3% 1.7%
Employer type
Self employees
7%
Private companies
62.9%
Governmental workers
20.6%
Not for profit companies
9.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 7,190 7% -2.4%
Private companies 64,719 62.9% -1.4%
Governmental workers 21,185 20.6% 2.7%
Not for profit companies 9,821 9.5% 6.4%
Unemployment rate
5.7%
-6.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Norfolk stands at 5.7%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Norfolk

How people get around in Norfolk

In Norfolk, the average commute time is 23 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 80.1% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 5% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
23 min
0.4% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 99,751 80.1% -1.7%
Taxicab 163 0.1% -36.6%
Bus or trolleybus 2,730 2.2% -11.9%
Subway or elevated 103 0.1% N/A
Railroad 91 0.1% 139.5%
Ferryboat 104 0.1% -30.2%
Motorcycle 426 0.3% -16.0%
Bicycle 695 0.6% -6.1%
Walk 6,192 5% -4.1%
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 Norfolk by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
23502 20,399 8,269 $63,208 $84,231
23503 30,216 14,160 $67,649 $90,145
23504 23,502 8,256 $44,659 $61,295
23505 28,247 12,782 $58,579 $85,323
23507 6,645 3,336 $104,295 $152,044
23508 19,432 6,632 $74,885 $113,486
23509 13,105 5,360 $72,816 $102,609
23510 9,190 4,720 $73,524 $90,537
23511 9,664 309 $62,946 $92,128
23513 28,628 11,878 $68,380 $81,804

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about Norfolk demographics 

What is the total population of Norfolk?

Norfolk has a total population of 233,596 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 Norfolk?

The gender ratio in Norfolk is as follows:
  • 50.7% males (118,334 residents)
  • 49.3% females (115,262 residents)

What is the median age in Norfolk?

The median age in Norfolk is 32.7.

What is the age distribution of the population in Norfolk?

The age distribution in Norfolk is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.4% (40,586 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 17.7% (41,410 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 31.5% (73,608 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 20.4% (47,552 residents)
  • Over 65: 13% (30,440 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Norfolk?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Norfolk is as follows:
  • White: 43.2% (100,966 residents)
  • Black or African American: 39.6% (92,432 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.7% (1,544 residents)
  • Asian: 3.7% (8,544 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (225 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 9% (20,946 residents)
  • Other: 3.8% (8,939 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 90% of the population in Norfolk.

How many housing units are there in Norfolk?

There are 103,524 housing units in Norfolk, reflecting a +1.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Norfolk has a total of 94,965 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Norfolk?

Norfolk has a median household income of $66,109, representing a +3.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Norfolk?

The employment rate is 94.3% in Norfolk, with a workforce of 102,915 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 79.7% (82,018 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 20.3% (20,897 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7% (7,190 residents)
  • Private companies: 62.9% (64,719 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 20.6% (21,185 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.5% (9,821 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