Chesapeake city, Virginia Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Chesapeake city is located in Virginia with a total population of 251,153. It is the 7th most populous county out of 133 in Virginia. The county encompasses 1 Census-designated place.

Age Demographics

The median age in Chesapeake city is 37.7 years. This is 3% lower than the state median of 38.8 years.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Chesapeake city is $94,189. This is 4% higher than the state median of $90,974. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 20% higher. The poverty rate stands at 8.7%. This is 12% lower than the state poverty rate of 9.9%. The unemployment rate is 4.9%. This is 15% higher than the state rate of 4.3%. The median home value is $359,100. Housing costs are about average than the state median of $360,700. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.8x. 73.8% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 10% higher than the state average of 67.2%.

Race & Ethnicity

The largest racial or ethnic group in Chesapeake city is White (non-Hispanic), making up 54.4% of the population. Black or African American residents account for 28.5%. The Black or African American population is significantly higher than the state average (28.5% vs 18.4%).

Education

36.4% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 12% lower than the state rate of 41.5%. Nationally, 35.0% of adults hold at least a bachelor's degree. The high school graduation rate (or equivalent) is 93.4%.