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Trying the top The Largest Cities In Virginia cities on US State Largest Cities – Choose State & Number? Here are the top 10 to get you started.
1. Virginia Beach, VA (Population: 453,649)
Virginia Beach, located along the Atlantic Ocean, is the most populous city in Virginia and a major East Coast tourist destination. Its iconic oceanfront boardwalk stretches for three miles, lined with hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues that draw millions each year. Beyond the beaches, Virginia Beach offers a variety of natural attractions, including First Landing State Park, Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, and False Cape State Park. The city is also home to a strong military presence, with Naval Air Station Oceana and other installations shaping its economy and culture. Virginia Beach’s economy thrives on tourism, defense, agriculture, and a growing business sector. Festivals, concerts, and sporting events add to its lively atmosphere, while neighborhoods and schools make it a desirable place to live.
Interesting Fact: The Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel near Virginia Beach is one of the seven engineering wonders of the modern world.
2. Chesapeake, VA (Population: 253,886)
Chesapeake, part of the Hampton Roads region, is a city defined by its mix of suburban life, rural landscapes, and wetlands. It is home to the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, a massive natural preserve offering trails, wildlife viewing, and outdoor recreation. Chesapeake’s neighborhoods feature a blend of historic villages, modern developments, and family-friendly communities. The city’s economy is tied to retail, services, defense, and logistics, with easy access to ports and major highways. Chesapeake values education and parks, with greenways and recreational facilities enhancing its quality of life. The city’s unique geography means it has more miles of navigable waterways than almost any other U.S. city, making boating and fishing central to its culture.
Interesting Fact: Chesapeake encompasses parts of the Great Dismal Swamp, one of the largest swamps in the eastern United States.
3. Norfolk, VA (Population: 230,930)
Norfolk is a historic port city and a central part of the Hampton Roads metropolitan area. It is home to Naval Station Norfolk, the world’s largest naval base, making the military central to its identity and economy. Norfolk also thrives on shipping, logistics, healthcare, and education, with Old Dominion University and Eastern Virginia Medical School contributing to its cultural and academic scene. The revitalized downtown and waterfront areas feature attractions like Waterside District, the Chrysler Museum of Art, and the USS Wisconsin battleship. Norfolk celebrates its maritime heritage while investing in new developments, green spaces, and cultural festivals. Its location along the Chesapeake Bay and Elizabeth River provides scenic views and recreational opportunities.
Interesting Fact: Naval Station Norfolk covers over 3,400 acres and supports the U.S. Atlantic Fleet.
4. Richmond, VA (Population: 229,247)
Richmond, the capital of Virginia, is a city with deep historical significance and modern energy. As a central player in both the American Revolution and the Civil War, Richmond is rich in landmarks such as St. John’s Church, the Virginia State Capitol (designed by Thomas Jefferson), and the American Civil War Museum. Today, Richmond has reinvented itself as a hub for finance, law, healthcare, and creative industries. Its downtown is filled with restaurants, craft breweries, and galleries, while neighborhoods like Shockoe Bottom and Carytown offer unique cultural experiences. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy rafting on the James River, which flows directly through the city. With its mix of history, business, and vibrant culture, Richmond stands as one of the most important cities in the South.
Interesting Fact: Richmond’s James River is the only river running through the center of a U.S. city where you can whitewater raft.
5. Newport News, VA (Population: 183,118)
Newport News, situated along the James River and Chesapeake Bay, has a long history tied to shipbuilding and defense. Huntington Ingalls Industries, the largest shipbuilding company in the U.S., employs thousands and anchors the city’s economy. Newport News also has strong ties to the military, with Joint Base Langley-Eustis nearby. The Mariners’ Museum and Park, one of the largest maritime museums in the world, highlights the city’s nautical legacy. Newport News is also home to Christopher Newport University, adding cultural and academic life to the community. Parks, trails, and waterfront areas provide residents with recreation, while ongoing revitalization strengthens its neighborhoods.
Interesting Fact: Newport News Shipbuilding is the sole designer and builder of U.S. Navy aircraft carriers.
6. Alexandria, VA (Population: 155,230)
Alexandria, located along the Potomac River just south of Washington, D.C., is known for its preserved colonial architecture and historic Old Town. Cobblestone streets, boutiques, and waterfront dining make Old Town a popular destination for both tourists and locals. Alexandria has strong ties to American history, once serving as a major colonial port. Today, it is a thriving city with a mix of government, defense contracting, and professional services, fueled by its proximity to the nation’s capital. The city also values arts and culture, with the Torpedo Factory Art Center showcasing dozens of studios and galleries. Alexandria’s blend of history, charm, and modern convenience makes it one of the most desirable places to live in Virginia.
Interesting Fact: Alexandria was once part of the land ceded to form Washington, D.C., but was retroceded to Virginia in 1847.
7. Hampton, VA (Population: 137,098)
Hampton, one of the oldest continuous English-speaking settlements in the U.S., sits at the entrance of the Chesapeake Bay. The city has a long history tied to the military and NASA, with Langley Air Force Base and NASA Langley Research Center located here. Hampton University, a historically Black university founded in 1868, adds academic and cultural presence. The Virginia Air and Space Science Center highlights the city’s role in aviation and space exploration. Hampton also features Fort Monroe National Monument, a historic military site that played key roles from the Civil War to the 20th century. The city’s economy includes defense, aerospace, and tourism, while waterfront areas provide scenic views and recreation.
Interesting Fact: Fort Monroe in Hampton was the largest stone fort ever built in the United States.
8. Suffolk, VA (Population: 100,659)
Suffolk, the largest city in Virginia by land area, combines rural landscapes, suburban growth, and historic character. Known as the birthplace of Planters Peanuts, Suffolk celebrates this heritage with festivals and landmarks honoring the iconic Mr. Peanut. Agriculture, manufacturing, and logistics continue to support its economy, while the city’s location in Hampton Roads provides access to regional opportunities. Suffolk’s historic downtown features restored buildings, local shops, and cultural venues, while Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge offers outdoor recreation. With rapid development and a mix of small-town and suburban living, Suffolk remains one of Virginia’s most unique communities.
Interesting Fact: Suffolk’s Mr. Peanut mascot was created in 1916 by a local schoolboy, who won a company logo contest.
9. Roanoke, VA (Population: 97,171)
Roanoke, nestled in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, is known as the “Star City of the South” thanks to the illuminated Roanoke Star overlooking the valley. Once a major railroad hub, Roanoke’s economy has diversified into healthcare, education, and technology. Carilion Clinic and Virginia Tech’s Carilion School of Medicine anchor the city’s medical community, while downtown Roanoke thrives with markets, restaurants, and cultural venues. The Taubman Museum of Art and Mill Mountain Zoo add to its cultural offerings. Outdoor life is central, with the Blue Ridge Parkway and Appalachian Trail nearby. Roanoke balances small-city charm with modern innovation, making it a regional hub for southwest Virginia.
Interesting Fact: The Roanoke Star, built in 1949, is the largest freestanding illuminated man-made star in the world.
10. Portsmouth, VA (Population: 96,793)
Portsmouth, located across the Elizabeth River from Norfolk, is a historic seaport city with strong naval roots. The Norfolk Naval Shipyard, one of the oldest and largest shipyards in the U.S., is central to its economy and identity. Portsmouth’s Olde Towne Historic District preserves centuries-old homes and cobblestone streets, creating a charming downtown area. The city also offers cultural attractions like the Children’s Museum of Virginia and local theaters. With waterfront views, festivals, and a strong sense of history, Portsmouth blends its maritime legacy with modern community life. Its location in the Hampton Roads region ensures continued importance in defense and trade.
Interesting Fact: The Norfolk Naval Shipyard in Portsmouth was originally established in 1767, making it the oldest U.S. naval shipyard still in operation.
