Portsmouth city, Virginia

Income Data

-21% vs. Virginia average
$58,972
Median Household Income
$32,915
Per Capita Income

At a Glance

Median Household Income
$58,972
-21% vs. state avg
Per Capita Income
$32,915
-17% vs. national
Income-to-Housing Ratio
25.7%
income as % of home value
Rank in Virginia
#94 / 133
by median household income

How Portsmouth city Compares

Portsmouth city$58,972
Virginia Average$74,957
National Median$74,755

Detailed Income Statistics

$58,972
Median Household Income
$32,915
Per Capita Income
$229,400
Median Home Value
25.7%
Income-to-Housing Ratio

Data Story

About Household Income in Portsmouth city, Virginia

Portsmouth's income lags national average

Portsmouth's median household income of $58,972 falls 21% below the U.S. median of $74,755, placing the city among lower-income areas nationally. While this reflects economic challenges, it also signals opportunities for wage growth and economic development in the region.

Below Virginia's income benchmark

Portsmouth's median household income trails Virginia's state average of $74,957 by $15,985, ranking the city in the lower portion of Virginia's 133 counties and cities. The income gap underscores distinct economic conditions between Portsmouth and wealthier Northern Virginia and Suburban communities.

Portsmouth earns less than nearby cities

Portsmouth ($58,972) earns 11% less than Radford ($52,791) and significantly less than regional hub Prince George County ($88,225). The variation reflects different economic bases—Portsmouth's maritime and port economy differs from nearby manufacturing and government-anchored areas.

Housing costs remain manageable here

Portsmouth residents spend 25.8% of income on rent, slightly above the national ideal of 25%, while median home values of $229,400 are accessible relative to local incomes. This balance suggests housing is neither a severe burden nor an obstacle for most households.

Build wealth despite modest income

Portsmouth households earning $58,972 annually have room to invest 10–15% in retirement accounts and savings plans—totaling $5,900–$8,800 yearly. Starting early with employer matches and low-cost index funds compounds significantly over decades, even on moderate incomes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the median household income in Portsmouth city, Virginia?
The median household income in Portsmouth city, Virginia is $58,972, according to U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey 2019-2023 5-Year Estimates. This represents the midpoint of all household incomes in the county.
How much do people earn in Portsmouth city?
The per capita income in Portsmouth city is $32,915, which represents the average income per person across the entire county population. The median household income — which accounts for all earners in a household — is $58,972.
How does Portsmouth city compare to the Virginia average?
Portsmouth city's median household income of $58,972 is lower than the Virginia state average of $74,957. The per capita income is $32,915, compared to the state average of $39,155.
What is the per capita income in Portsmouth city, Virginia?
The per capita income in Portsmouth city, Virginia is $32,915, according to U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey 2019-2023 5-Year Estimates. Per capita income is calculated by dividing total personal income by total population, providing an average income figure per resident.
Is Portsmouth city a low-income area in Virginia?
Portsmouth city's median household income of $58,972 is below the Virginia average of $74,957. The per capita income of $32,915 is also lower than the state average of $39,155. Lower incomes can reflect the local economic base, rural vs. urban location, and employment opportunities available in the area.
How does Portsmouth city rank for income in Virginia?
Portsmouth city ranks #94 out of 133 counties in Virginia by median household income (1 = highest). With a median household income of $58,972 and per capita income of $32,915, it falls in the bottom third of counties statewide.

Income Comparison Calculator

See how your household income compares in Portsmouth city

$
1.00x

Your income is above the Portsmouth city median

County median: $58,972 per year

vs. County Median

+0%

vs. State Average

-21%

vs. National Median

-21%

vs. Portsmouth city MedianAbout equal
vs. Virginia Average21% below
vs. National Median21% below

Income Adequacy

Monthly income covers median rent3.9x

Your monthly income ($4,914) vs. median rent ($1,266/mo). A ratio of 3.3x or higher means rent is under 30% of income.

Sponsored

Grow Your Wealth

See how your income stacks up in Portsmouth city, Virginia? Start investing smarter with a robo-advisor that builds a diversified portfolio for you.

Start Investing

Counties with Similar Income Levels

Sponsored

Compare Financial Products in Virginia

Compare savings accounts, CDs, and money market rates from top banks to make the most of your earnings.

Compare Rates

Data: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.