Located in southeastern Virginia, Portsmouth sits along the Elizabeth River as part of the Hampton Roads metropolitan area. The city's Olde Towne Historic District showcases period architecture from the 18th and 19th centuries, making it one of the largest collections of historic buildings between Alexandria and Charleston. The community's average rent ranges from $1,140 for studios to $1,472 for three-bedroom homes, with a moderate year-over-year increase of around 2.9% for one-bedroom units, making it more affordable than nearby Norfolk.
Portsmouth's downtown area reflects its deep maritime heritage, anchored by the Norfolk Naval Shipyard, a cornerstone of the local economy. The tree-lined streets of Olde Towne invite exploration, while the Portsmouth Naval Medical Center serves as a prominent landmark. Rivers Casino Portsmouth provides entertainment options, and the Portsmouth Invitational Tournament brings excitement to the city each April.