Military Bases in Hampton Roads and the Best Nearby Neighborhoods

Hampton Roads is one of the largest military communities in the world. With roughly 19 installations and over 100,000 active-duty personnel stationed here, knowing which base you will be assigned to and where to live nearby makes all the difference. I served as a Marine Corps Veteran myself, and I have helped hundreds of military families find the right home near the right base. Here is your complete guide.

Naval Station Norfolk

The world's largest naval base. Located on Sewells Point in Norfolk, it covers over 4,300 acres and is home to the Atlantic Fleet. If you are Navy, there is a good chance you will spend time here.

Best Nearby Neighborhoods

• Ghent -- Historic district with walkable streets, local restaurants, and a mix of condos and single-family homes. Popular with younger officers and families who want urban energy.
• Larchmont and Edgewater -- Established neighborhoods with tree-lined streets, brick colonials, and strong community feel. Minutes from the base.
• Bayview -- Affordable family homes near the water. Good option for families who want space without a long commute.
• Colonial Place and Riverview -- Quiet, charming neighborhoods along the Lafayette River. Good schools and a strong sense of community.
• Greenbrier (Chesapeake) -- A bit farther south but offers newer construction, excellent schools, and more house for your money.

Naval Air Station Oceana (and Dam Neck Annex)

The Navy's East Coast master jet base, located in Virginia Beach. Dam Neck Annex is just south of the main base and houses specialized training commands. This is a major hub for naval aviation personnel.

Best Nearby Neighborhoods

• Great Neck -- One of the most desirable areas in Virginia Beach. Top-rated schools, waterfront access, and a strong community feel. Homes range from mid-century ranches to custom estates.
• Red Mill -- Family-friendly with great schools and easy access to NAS Oceana. Popular with both officers and enlisted families.
• Shadowlawn -- Close to the oceanfront and the base. Walkable neighborhoods with a mix of older homes and newer construction.
• Ocean Lakes -- A large, established neighborhood near the base. Known for its community pool, parks, and strong sense of community.
• Kempsville -- Central location with good schools and a variety of housing options at more affordable price points.
• Princess Anne and Strawbridge -- Growing areas with newer construction and more space. Good for families who want a suburban feel.

Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story

A joint base in Virginia Beach combining Naval Amphibious Base Little Creek with Fort Story. Home to amphibious operations, Navy SEAL training, and Army watercraft units. Located right on the Chesapeake Bay.

Best Nearby Neighborhoods

• East Beach -- A newer coastal community with modern homes, a town center with shops and restaurants, and direct bay access. Walkable and highly desirable.
• Chic's Beach (Chesapeake Beach) -- A relaxed beach community along the bay. Laid-back vibe, good schools, and a tight-knit feel. Homes range from beach cottages to custom builds.
• Ocean Park -- Quiet residential area near the base with established homes and easy base access.

Joint Base Langley-Eustis (JBLE)

A joint base combining Langley Air Force Base in Hampton (Air Combat Command, F-22 Raptors) with Fort Eustis in Newport News (Army transportation and aviation). Located on the Virginia Peninsula.

Best Nearby Neighborhoods

• Phoebus (Hampton) -- Historic downtown district with character, local restaurants, and a walkable main street. Minutes from Langley.
• Buckroe (Hampton) -- Beachside neighborhood on the Chesapeake Bay. Affordable homes with a relaxed coastal feel.
• Aberdeen (Hampton) -- Established residential area near Langley. Good mix of older and newer homes.
• Yorktown and Poquoson -- Farther out but offer excellent schools, waterfront living, and more space. Popular with families willing to commute.

Other Key Installations

Beyond the major bases, Hampton Roads is also home to the Norfolk Naval Shipyard in Portsmouth (one of the oldest and largest Navy shipyards), Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, Naval Weapons Station Yorktown, and Coast Guard Sector Hampton Roads. Personnel assigned to these facilities often find great housing in Portsmouth, Suffolk, and the surrounding Peninsula communities.

Portsmouth offers affordable historic homes near the shipyard, while Suffolk provides newer construction and larger lots for families who want space and are willing to drive a bit farther.

My Advice as a Fellow Veteran and Agent

I have been exactly where you are. I know what it is like to get orders and need to figure out housing in an unfamiliar area fast. The key is to focus on commute time, school quality, and resale value. Your BHA goes further in some neighborhoods than others, and a good agent who understands the military lifestyle can save you time, money, and stress.