Beyond the Dorms: Finding the Best Off-Campus Living in Norfolk
Positioned at the southeastern corner of Virginia, Norfolk is a sprawling area with close ties to Virginia Beach to the east and Newport News across the Hampton Roads Bridge Tunnels to the north. I start with a lay of the land as an introduction because its unique geography significantly influences the quality of life for college students within Norfolk proper in the nearby higher education institutions.
Surrounded by working waterfronts on the western Elizabeth River side and pristine beaches along the Chesapeake Bay to the north and Atlantic Ocean to the east, Norfolk enjoys all the facets of a seaport and seaside village. Rich with shipyards and other industries, the good economy supports an abundance of eateries, pubs, breweries, and a robust arts scene. Attending a state or private university here gives undergraduate and graduate students access to fun, relaxation, and temperate weather. Although an entire volume could be dedicated to interesting things to do in Norfolk, these are highlights located around the Norfolk State University (NSU), Old Dominion University (ODU), and Eastern Virginia Medical School (EVMS).
The arts and entertainment scene peppers the entire peninsula. In terms of large-scale live performances, Chrysler Hall, Harrison Opera House, and The NorVa deliver A-list acts. With a capacity of 1,500, The NorVa hosts popular bands. Chrysler Hall holds 2,500 people and leans toward Broadway events, comedy, symphony offerings, as well as innovative and diverse programming. Affiliated with the Virginia Opera Association, Harrison Opera House presents classics as well as contemporary performances.
It’s also important to mention that you can find a wide variety of local and regional entertainment, including small-room acts, open mics, and others. One of the niche venues worth checking out is 37th & Zen. It hosts game gatherings, a weekly Goth DJ night, and other alternative programming. Lastly, Naro Expanded Cinema, locally known as “The Naro,” shows cult classics, documentaries, short films, and beloved offbeat movies.
Attending school in Norfolk doesn’t mean you’ll be relegated to the college cafeteria. The restaurant scene is quite good, if you know where to look. If you run an online search for top restaurants in Norfolk, the list could populate more than a few pages. I’ll help you get started on your foodie journey by recommending a few of my favorites.
A W Shucks Raw Bar & Grill can be a tad difficult to find, due to poor GPS mapping. But the unassuming eatery is worth investing a little effort. I’m a big fan of the Fresh Catch options, particularly the salmon, as well as prime rib night. The staff is super fun and friendly, and the food is consistently enjoyable. The Green Onion, among others on Colley Avenue, is a mainstay. And, Tony’s Diner is deceptively enticing.
As a pizza option, Del Vecchios ranks among the popular places near ODU. It has a nice garlicky flavor, if that’s your jam. I also like Azalea Inn & Time Out Sports Bar. Along with fresh-tasting pizza, it has an arcade. There are a lot of terrific places to eat or get a drink with cohorts. Getting to know the local food is part of the college experience here in Norfolk. If you’re inquisitive, you’ll never run out of things to do and places to visit in Norfolk. Before that happens, it’s important to find a comfortable, safe neighborhood to live in while earning a degree.
Norfolk State University (NSU)
Located at 700 Park Ave in Norfolk, VA, NSU has an enrollment that hovers just above 6,000 students. Considered a well-respected Historically Black College/University (HBCU), it ranks among the top regional universities in the South and the top 50 public higher learning institutions. The campus is located on the southern side of Norfolk, near the Elizabeth River.
The Virginia school is known for its academic tracks, including social work, computer science, and many others. In-state tuition is seen as reasonable, especially when you consider a faculty-to-student ratio of 15-1. Affordability, a diverse student body, and well-maintained grounds spanning 134 acres make it a popular choice. These are nearby neighborhoods to consider.
Chesterfield Heights
| Bedroom | Average Rent | Cheapest Rent | Highest Rent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio Apartments | $1,590 | $1,183 | $1,967 |
| 1 Bedroom Apartments | $1,716 | $900 | $2,449 |
| 2 Bedroom Apartments | $2,126 | $975 | $2,939 |
| 3 Bedroom Apartments | $2,712 | $1,050 | $4,989 |
This historically African-American neighborhood contains more than 400 homes listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Its well-manicured lawns, bungalows, Revivals, Queen Anne, and Colonial homes make it easy on the eyes. Chesterfield Heights enjoys quick access to downtown Norfolk and waterfront opportunities. Considered family- and pet-friendly, students are a stone’s throw from Harbor Park.
Central Brambleton
| Bedroom | Average Rent | Cheapest Rent | Highest Rent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio Apartments | $1,584 | $1,183 | $1,967 |
| 1 Bedroom Apartments | $1,696 | $750 | $2,449 |
| 2 Bedroom Apartments | $2,056 | $975 | $3,300 |
| 3 Bedroom Apartments | $2,634 | $1,050 | $4,989 |
| 4 Bedroom Apartments | $2,822 | $2,295 | $3,350 |
Located just northeast of NSU, students who reside in Central Brambleton gain quick access to the college and the abutting Downtown Norfolk. With a mixture of older homes and new construction, renters can hop on Route 264, other major arteries, and stroll the Elizabeth River waterfront. For college students looking for part-time jobs, the area has plenty of shift work available in chain restaurants, stores, and local businesses. Although many residents use cars, it is within walking distance of NSU.
Broad Creek
| Bedroom | Average Rent | Cheapest Rent | Highest Rent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio Apartments | $1,657 | $1,337 | $1,967 |
| 1 Bedroom Apartments | $1,762 | $750 | $2,314 |
| 2 Bedroom Apartments | $1,975 | $975 | $2,939 |
| 3 Bedroom Apartments | $2,288 | $1,050 | $4,989 |
In Broad Creek, apartments are considered lower-priced than the average for Virginia as a whole. Norfolk also has a reputation for roomy living spaces at affordable rates. The neighborhood has a lot of positives for renters to consider. These include wide, well-kept streets and sidewalks, convenient shopping, public transportation, and Broad Creek Park, among others.
Old Dominion University (ODU)
Old Dominion University’s campus is sandwiched between Hampton Boulevard, Powhatan Ave, West 49th Street and West 43rd Street. The sprawling public research university was founded nearly a century ago as a division of the College of William & Mary. It emerged as an independent institution in 1962, with a student body of approximately 24,000. Offering both degrees in the humanities and sciences, ODU undergraduate and graduate students can earn 73 types of bachelor’s and 60 master’s degrees. There are also 35 doctoral tracks.
The prestigious institution conducts scientific research in collaboration with NASA. Famous former ODU students include Major League Baseball player Justin Verlander, NFL quarterback Taylor Heinicke, and acclaimed poet Maya Angelou. Attending ODU can be a rich educational experience. And finding the right apartment can maximize your off-campus enjoyment. These are neighborhoods worth considering.
Larchmont-Edgewater
| Bedroom | Average Rent | Cheapest Rent | Highest Rent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio Apartments | $1,584 | $1,375 | $1,700 |
| 1 Bedroom Apartments | $1,530 | $990 | $2,295 |
| 2 Bedroom Apartments | $1,588 | $1,080 | $2,503 |
| 3 Bedroom Apartments | $2,211 | $1,515 | $3,777 |
| 4 Bedroom Apartments | $2,247 | $2,200 | $2,295 |
The Larchmont Edgewater neighborhood ranks among Norfolk’s most sought-after areas. Just under 6,000 people live in this peaceful suburb, surrounded by water on three sides. Although largely residential, the section has select restaurants such as Waters Edge Winery & Bistro, and popular hangouts such as the Coach House Bar & Grill. Parents and caregivers will be happy to note that the public schools can provide children with a strong foundation. The public Larchmont Elementary School and private Saint Patrick Catholic School earn good marks.
Lambert’s Point
| Bedroom | Average Rent | Cheapest Rent | Highest Rent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio Apartments | $1,652 | $1,205 | $1,967 |
| 1 Bedroom Apartments | $1,764 | $990 | $2,295 |
| 2 Bedroom Apartments | $1,956 | $1,080 | $3,300 |
| 3 Bedroom Apartments | $2,778 | $1,825 | $3,821 |
| 4 Bedroom Apartments | $2,295 | $2,295 | $2,295 |
Extending inland from the shore of the Elizabeth River, Lambert’s Point abuts ODU. It’s a hub for the Norfolk Southern Coal Terminal, which presents excellent job opportunities and economic benefits. The neighborhood is primarily residential in nature, offering children’s programs and access to the Lambert’s Point Community Center, and the Elizabeth River Trail, among others.
Lambert’s Point apartment renters typically use Hampton Boulevard to get to class or visit the hip, Ghent area. That’s where you’ll find plenty of cool coffeehouses and boutiques.
Highland Park
| Bedroom | Average Rent | Cheapest Rent | Highest Rent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio Apartments | $1,546 | $1,325 | $1,700 |
| 1 Bedroom Apartments | $1,690 | $750 | $2,295 |
| 2 Bedroom Apartments | $1,730 | $1,080 | $2,503 |
| 3 Bedroom Apartments | $2,340 | $1,825 | $3,777 |
| 4 Bedroom Apartments | $2,295 | $2,295 | $2,295 |
Running east of ODU, from Hampton Boulevard, across Colley Avenue to the Lafayette River, Highland Park is a unique blend of single-family homes and modestly priced student apartments. Flush with cafés, breweries, eateries, and outdoor opportunities, such as Lafayette Park, it’s a wonderful neighborhood to live, work, attend classes, and enjoy evenings out with friends. Few places offer such diversity in cuisine, niche shops, entertainment, and opportunities to meet people from all walks of life while at ODU. Highland Park ranks among the best places for college students to live off campus in Norfolk.
Eastern Virginia Medical School (EVMS)
Located at 825 Fairfax Ave, Norfolk, VA, Eastern Virginia Medical School is a separate campus operated by Old Dominion University. Part of Macon & Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences, EVMS is a public institution.
The campus is situated next to Sentara Norfolk General Hospital and the Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters. The medical school is recognized as the first U.S. institution to produce a viable fetus through in vitro fertilization.
Student enrollment hovers around 1,300, though the medical school reportedly receives upwards of 9,000 applicants annually. In 2024, U.S. News & World Report ranked EVMS among the most diverse medical schools. It also ranked highly in categories involving graduating medical practitioners. Graduates of the MD program post an average GPA of 3.70. This impressive institution is surrounded by Chelsea and three Ghent neighborhoods.
Chelsea
Considered a pedestrian-friendly and bike-friendly neighborhood, Chelsea is a popular section of Norfolk known for its charm and waterfront. The Elizabeth River Trail hugs the waterfront. Like so many neighborhoods in Norfolk, there is an abundance of eateries, breweries and coffeehouses. The Chelsea vibe tends to be a bit more trendy and chic. The Torch Bistro and The Birch are well patronized, as is The Bakehouse at Chelsea. You’ll be able to figure out your hot spot in no time, living in pet-friendly Chelsea. It’s an ideal landscape for medical students, young professionals, and growing families.
Ghent Neighborhoods
There are three distinct sections of Ghent: Ghent proper, the North Ghent Historic District, and West Ghent. These are considered prime neighborhoods to rent apartments in for students, young professionals, and people who value access to fine dining, culture, and safety.
- West Ghent: West Ghent is located northwest of EVMS. It’s a mix of single-family homes and apartment complexes. Considered reasonably inexpensive, by comparison, residents love being able to take long walks with pets and friends. West Ghent is also close to Colley Ave, allowing tenants to stroll to their favorite restaurant or catch a show at the Naro.
- Ghent (Proper): Ghent is commonly recognized as one of the nicest neighborhoods in Norfolk, bar none. Homes and apartments enjoy groomed lawns, yards, and well-maintained sidewalks. Residents like to use rentable electric scooters to get around, while others take a stroll. The parking situation can prove challenging for automobile owners. The streets fill up with automobiles after rush hour, due to its rental space popularity.
- North Ghent Historic District: This national historic district has more than 300 homes and apartments built before 1912. The architectural designs add to the ambiance of its 80 acres. Neighborhood highlights include the Botetourt Gardens in Ghent Square, Harrison Opera House, Chrysler Museum of Art, and historic places of worship. A quaint hamlet, it’s a wonderful area to finish a degree and put down roots.
