Norfolk Apartments and Rentals

Connecting the Chesapeake Bay to the Atlantic Ocean, Norfolk is known as "the heart of the Virginia waterfront." With more than 85,000 households and 95,000 housing units in the city, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, Norfolk is a community of families striving to create a dynamic, diverse and modern port city. With a 3.6 percent increase in population from 2000 to 2010, there are plenty of opportunities to find great Norfolk apartments for rent.

Norfolk is considered to be the historic and cultural capital of the Chesapeake Bay area for a reason. The earliest evidence of inhabitants dates to 9500 B.C. when the Chesipean Indians ruled the Bay. It wasn't until the Spanish arrived in the 1560s when the influence of Europe came into the area and Native Americans were forced out.

Once tobacco was introduced as a cash crop in Norfolk County, English colonists came into the area and began to reap the benefits of the New World. Into the 1700s, Norfolk saw exponential growth up until the Revolutionary War.

Into the 19th century, fire destroyed many homes in the area and the city went through a rebuilding stage. Navy yards and ports were established to begin trade all over the world, ushering in the current economic base of the area.

Norfolk's railroads and streetcars brought about a housing boom in the 1900s and by mid-century, Norfolk became the largest city in Virginia. Many colleges and medical facilities opened up in the area, and the city grew to a population of nearly 300,000 by the end of the 20th century.

There are several universities in the Norfolk area, the most well-known being Old Dominion. With 75 professors becoming fellows on their chosen field of study at ODU, it is one of the finest colleges in the Mid-Atlantic region. Another institution that draws many students to look for rentals in Norfolk is Norfolk State University. Popular in athletics as well as academics, NSU hosts many international students, bringing diversity to the Norfolk area.

Because Norfolk has always been a port city, many of the jobs in the region involve trade, transportation and public utilities. However, the largest employer in the area is Sentara Health Care, which houses 15,000 medical professionals in the community. The city is also home to a large Naval base, making Norfolk a wonderful place to live for military personnel and their families.

Residents in the Norfolk area enjoy a cost of living that is slightly less than the national average, according to city-data.com. With so many job opportunities and a diverse population, Norfolk is a very attractive and affordable place to live for many Virginia residents. As of 2009, the median gross rent was $862 per month.

Downtown Norfolk's largest summertime festival is Harborfest. Drawing in more than 200,000 attendees every year, this popular nautical event celebrates the many beautiful ships in the area along the shimmering waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Complete with great seafood, live music and a fireworks display, Harborfest is a great way to celebrate local culture and bring the community together.

Another popular event is the Grand Illumination Parade that is held every November. An event that kicks off the Christmas season, thousands of twinkling lights cover downtown Norfolk on illuminated floats. A great event for kids, the lighted fixtures are an excellent way for the city to get back the joy and spirit of the holidays each year. 

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