Westhaven, Portsmouth,VA

If you’re considering a move to Portsmouth, VA, the Westhaven neighborhood in the northwest part of the city is definitely worth exploring. This charming area boasts a quiet, suburban feel while still being close to many conveniences and attractions. Westhaven is known for its well-maintained homes, tree-lined streets, and a strong sense of community, making it ideal for families, young professionals, and retirees alike. Residents appreciate the peaceful ambiance paired with easy access to shopping centers, local parks, and well-regarded schools, ensuring a comfortable and convenient lifestyle.

One of the standout features of Westhaven is its proximity to natural and recreational spaces. Residents can enjoy leisurely afternoons at nearby parks such as Churchland Park, which offers playgrounds, walking trails, and open green spaces perfect for picnics or outdoor activities. For those who appreciate local history and culture, the nearby Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum and the vibrant Olde Towne Portsmouth district provide enriching experiences just a short drive away. Westhaven’s neighborhood vibe is bolstered by friendly neighbors and community events, fostering a welcoming atmosphere for newcomers.

When it comes to location, Westhaven is pleasantly close to Downtown Portsmouth, making it an excellent choice for those who want to be near the city’s heart without the hustle and bustle. A quick 10 to 15-minute drive will take you to the thriving downtown area, where you can enjoy a variety of dining options, boutique shops, and waterfront activities along the Elizabeth River. Whether you’re commuting to work, meeting friends for dinner, or exploring local festivals, living in Westhaven means you get the best of both worlds: peaceful neighborhood living with easy access to city life.

28% of the Westhaven population aged 16 and up are married, which is in line with national averages. This balance suggests a neighborhood with a healthy mix of families, couples, and single residents, creating a well-rounded community dynamic. You are likely to find a blend of stability and social variety, appealing to both long-term homeowners and younger professionals alike.

With only 28% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Westhaven demographics offer valuable insights into the character and lifestyle of the neighborhood, helping you understand who lives there and what daily life might feel like. Home to only about 4,959 residents, Westhaven is notably smaller than many other Portsmouth neighborhoods, creating a more peaceful and community-oriented atmosphere. Its lower population can translate to quieter streets, a more relaxed pace of life, and easier access to local amenities — all without sacrificing the vibrant urban lifestyle the city is known for.

Westhaven has a population density of 4,016, which strikes a balanced feel when compared to other Portsmouth neighborhoods. The area offers just the right mix of activity and breathing room, creating a community that’s lively yet comfortable, with easy access to amenities and everyday conveniences.

With an average age of 36, you're likely to find a well-balanced community where multiple generations live side by side. This mix of age groups contributes to a neighborhood atmosphere that’s both active and welcoming, offering a blend of fresh perspectives and long-standing community values.

The Westhaven crime map offers a clear, data-driven look at how crime is distributed throughout the neighborhood, using block group data to highlight both safer areas and potential hot spots. The color-coded map makes it easy to see where crime is more concentrated and where it occurs less frequently, helping residents and prospective buyers better understand local safety patterns. It’s important to note that darker or red zones on the map don’t necessarily mean those areas are unsafe — locations near busy transit hubs, shopping districts, or popular attractions often show higher activity simply due to larger crowds and increased foot traffic.

Housing trends offer valuable insight into the accessibility and character of a neighborhood. In Westhaven, the median home price is $188,100, which is less than many surrounding areas. This affordability makes it an attractive option for first-time buyers, young families, or anyone looking to enter the housing market without a significant financial barrier. Looking at appreciation rates and past market trends in Westhaven can offer valuable insight into the neighborhood’s investment potential. Understanding how home values have changed over time helps buyers gauge future growth, assess long-term stability, and make more informed real estate decisions.

The median rent is around $1,111, which is on par with many comparable neighborhoods. This balanced pricing offers a mix of affordability and value, making it a practical choice for a wide range of renters.

School ratings in Westhaven combine factors like student performance, graduation rates, and standardized test scores to provide a clear picture of overall educational quality. The use of NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores adds valuable context by offering a consistent national benchmark to see how local schools compare on a broader scale. Additionally, understanding the overall education level achieved by residents in Westhaven can give insight into the community’s priorities and opportunities, helping families make more informed decisions about where to live and how well local schools may support long-term student success.