Portsmouth, VA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
97,190
-0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$60,491/yr
2.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
43,318
0.2% year-over-year change

Portsmouth population

How many people live in Portsmouth

Portsmouth is home to 97,190 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.9% of Portsmouth locals are male, and 52.1% are female.

Total population
97,190
-0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.9%
46,558
Female
52.1%
50,632
Value Percent YoY change
Male 46,558 47.9% -0.3%
Female 50,632 52.1% 0.1%
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 Portsmouth is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.6% are children under 15, then 12.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 29.8% of the population, while another 22.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 15.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
35.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.6%
15 to 24
12.6%
25 to 44
29.8%
45 to 64
22.5%
Over 65
15.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 19,051 19.6% -1.4%
15 to 24 12,238 12.6% 1.0%
25 to 44 28,985 29.8% 0.6%
45 to 64 21,879 22.5% -1.9%
Over 65 15,037 15.5% 1.8%
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 Portsmouth, 95.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 36.2% of locals are Caucasian, 50.6% are African American and 1.7% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
95.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.3%
Non-citizens
1.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 92,535 95.2% -0.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 3,212 3.3% 9.0%
Non-citizens 1,443 1.5% 8.3%
Racial breakdown
White
36.2%
Black or African American
50.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
1.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
9%
Other
2.2%
Value Percent
White 35,186 36.2%
Black or African American 49,167 50.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 299 0.3%
Asian 1,673 1.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 46 0%
Two or more races 8,731 9%
Other 2,088 2.2%

Households in Portsmouth

A peek inside Portsmouth households

Portsmouth has 40,288 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 60% are families, while the remaining 40% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
40,288
1.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
16,124
Family households
24,164
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 16,124 40% 2.6%
Family households 24,164 60% 0.8%
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 Portsmouth

The housing landscape of Portsmouth

Portsmouth's housing consists of 43,318 units, with 61.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 8.7% 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 0.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
43,318
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 26,642 61.5%
1 unit, attached 3,755 8.7%
2 units 1,178 2.7%
3 or 4 units 2,945 6.8%
5 to 9 units 3,877 9%
10 to 19 units 1,553 3.6%
20 to 49 units 1,028 2.4%
50 or more units 2,050 4.7%
Mobile home 282 0.6%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 8 0%
Homes built since 2020
309
130.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Portsmouth

In Portsmouth, the median construction year is 1967. About 11.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 12.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 6.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 5,152 11.9% -0.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 5,242 12.1% -5.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 6,714 15.5% -7.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 6,252 14.4% -1.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 6,155 14.2% -2.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 4,226 9.8% 1.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 3,729 8.6% 14.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,987 6.9% 7.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 2,552 5.9% 12.2%
Built in 2020 or later 309 0.7% 130.6%
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.

Portsmouth occupancy rates

Out of the 40,288 occupied housing units in Portsmouth, 57.9% are owner-occupied, while 42.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
40,288
1.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
16,944
Owner occupied
23,344
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 16,944 42.1% -1.0%
Owner occupied 23,344 57.9% 3.5%
Unoccupied housing units
7.0%
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.

Portsmouth housing costs

Housing costs in Portsmouth come to a median of $1,361 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,300.

Median housing costs per month
$1,361/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 Portsmouth
$1,300/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 Portsmouth

Portsmouth education at a glance

About 41.3% of the population in Portsmouth went to high school, while 24.7% pursued college studies. Another 9% earned an associate degree and 14.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,059 2.8% 21.6%
High school diploma 30,866 41.3% -1.2%
College diploma 18,492 24.7% -3.4%
Associate degree 6,750 9% 0.5%
Bachelor's degree 10,611 14.2% 2.5%
Graduate degree 6,020 8% 7.8%
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 Portsmouth

How much people earn in Portsmouth

The average annual household income in Portsmouth was $77,856 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +0.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $60,491, reflecting a +2.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Portsmouth
$77,856/year
0.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Portsmouth
$60,491/year
2.6% year-over-year change

Portsmouth income by age

In Portsmouth, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $62,072. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $70,186 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $53,667, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $47,831 in earnings. Overall, 82.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $53,667 11.4%
25 - 44 $62,072 1.4%
45 - 64 $70,186 2.5%
Over 65 $47,831 5.8%
Above poverty level
77,705
Below poverty level
16,178
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 77,705 82.8% 0.6%
Below poverty level 16,178 17.2% -0.5%

Average renter income in Portsmouth

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Portsmouth, their median household income was $40,013 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 39%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$40,013
Rent-to-income ratio
39%
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 Portsmouth

Workforce and job types in Portsmouth

The job market in Portsmouth is powered by 42,140 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 74.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 25.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.8% run their own businesses, 60.1% are employed by private companies, and 23.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
42,140
1.5% year-over-year change
White collar
31,532
Blue collar
10,608
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 31,532 74.8% 1.9%
Blue collar 10,608 25.2% 0.4%
Employer type
Self employees
6.8%
Private companies
60.1%
Governmental workers
23.3%
Not for profit companies
9.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,865 6.8% 18.8%
Private companies 25,333 60.1% -1.6%
Governmental workers 9,809 23.3% -3.0%
Not for profit companies 4,133 9.8% 26.8%
Unemployment rate
6.6%
0.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Portsmouth stands at 6.6%, 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 Portsmouth

How people get around in Portsmouth

Commuting methods vary: 83.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 37,893 83.4% -0.3%
Taxicab 142 0.3% -6.0%
Bus or trolleybus 692 1.5% 28.1%
Railroad 13 0% 8.3%
Ferryboat 21 0% 0.0%
Motorcycle 42 0.1% -17.6%
Bicycle 163 0.4% 6.5%
Walk 1,456 3.2% 5.0%
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 Portsmouth by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
23701 24,298 9,793 $62,349 $78,575
23702 12,485 5,133 $48,835 $61,810
23703 25,610 10,026 $78,707 $100,857
23704 19,207 8,658 $49,583 $70,527
23707 14,766 6,654 $48,926 $64,182
23708 269 3 $0 $0
23709 510 0 $0 $0

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FAQs about Portsmouth demographics 

What is the total population of Portsmouth?

Portsmouth has a total population of 97,190 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 -0.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Portsmouth?

The gender ratio in Portsmouth is as follows:
  • 47.9% males (46,558 residents)
  • 52.1% females (50,632 residents)

What is the median age in Portsmouth?

The median age in Portsmouth is 35.9.

What is the age distribution of the population in Portsmouth?

The age distribution in Portsmouth is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.6% (19,051 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.6% (12,238 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 29.8% (28,985 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.5% (21,879 residents)
  • Over 65: 15.5% (15,037 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Portsmouth?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Portsmouth is as follows:
  • White: 36.2% (35,186 residents)
  • Black or African American: 50.6% (49,167 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (299 residents)
  • Asian: 1.7% (1,673 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (46 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 9% (8,731 residents)
  • Other: 2.2% (2,088 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 95.2% of the population in Portsmouth.

How many housing units are there in Portsmouth?

There are 43,318 housing units in Portsmouth, reflecting a +0.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Portsmouth has a total of 40,288 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Portsmouth?

Portsmouth has a median household income of $60,491, representing a +2.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 93.4% in Portsmouth, with a workforce of 42,140 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 74.8% (31,532 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 25.2% (10,608 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.8% (2,865 residents)
  • Private companies: 60.1% (25,333 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 23.3% (9,809 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.8% (4,133 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