Chesapeake has something for everyone. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast captivated by its miles of waterways or someone who values the convenience of city life, this area has it all. Nestled between four vibrant neighbors—Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Suffolk, and Portsmouth—Chesapeake offers a blend of diversity and opportunity. Its sprawling landscape, interlaced with rivers and connected by a network of bridges and tunnels, makes it an attractive place to live and invest for those seeking a community full of life and growth.
As a large city with numerous distinct neighborhoods, Chesapeake provides various options for those looking to find their perfect home. Some of the most notable areas include Western Branch, Deep Creek, Grassfield, Great Bridge, South Norfolk, and Greenbrier. These neighborhoods represent just a glimpse of what Chesapeake has to offer.
Greenbrier
Since its establishment in the mid-1970s, Greenbrier has evolved into a thriving commercial hub and the largest employment center in Chesapeake. This bustling area features a wide variety of shopping, dining, and residential options, making it a popular destination for residents and visitors alike.
Greenbrier is divided into Greenbrier West and Greenbrier East. The latter is slightly more developed, with centrally located shopping centers and a major mall, while Greenbrier West also offers numerous shops and restaurants. With its proximity to major interstates, you can reach the beach in 30 minutes or access Norfolk in 12-15 minutes from some areas. The neighborhoods in Greenbrier vary widely in price and style, ranging from affordable housing to more upscale homes. Outdoor enthusiasts can also enjoy the excellent facilities at Chesapeake City Park, located within Greenbrier.
Western Branch
Western Branch offers great value but is often overlooked due to its size and its distance from the beach (35 to 40 minutes). However, it boasts highly ranked schools.
This area also has several military bases, including the Coast Guard, Portsmouth Naval Hospital, the Department of Defense, and the Norfolk Naval Shipyard. Langley and Fort Eustis are located on the nearby Peninsula, all easily accessible from Western Branch. Residents can find everything they need at Chesapeake Square, a convenient shopping center. Western Branch also offers more affordable housing than other parts of Chesapeake, with attractive neighborhoods like Brittany Woods, Green Meadow Forest, Wellington, and Joliff Woods providing reasonably priced options.
Deep Creek
Deep Creek is often underrated but offers excellent value for homebuyers, particularly in neighborhoods like Brentwood. Deep Creek Park, one of the city's newer recreational facilities, features a thoughtfully designed playground for children with special needs. Just a short distance away, the Great Dismal Swamp Canal Trail, a former section of Highway 17, allows visitors to enjoy its tree-lined beauty on foot or by bike.
Southern Chesapeake
Southern Chesapeake is among the most desirable areas to live in the city and is a driving force behind Chesapeake's growth and development. This region includes neighborhoods like Great Bridge, Hickory, and Grassfield and is primarily rural with some suburban communities. In recent years, the area has seen significant growth as farmland is being transformed into large residential neighborhoods. This trend is expected to continue. Southern Chesapeake is also highly regarded for its schools, with Great Bridge Intermediate ranked number one and Hickory Elementary ranked third according to U.S. News, making it an appealing choice for families.
South Norfolk
The South Norfolk Historic District, located in Chesapeake, is a nationally recognized area listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1989. Most of the district's development took place between 1890 and the 1930s, showcasing architectural styles and construction techniques from that era. The neighborhood features a range of homes, including modified Classical Revival and Queen Anne styles, along with Stick and Eastlake elements. Early 20th-century Bungalow, Cottage, Foursquare, and Colonial Revival houses are also scattered throughout the area. Each property typically has front and back yards, many with carefully maintained gardens, lawns, and shrubs. Today, South Norfolk remains a quiet residential community, preserving much of its historic charm.
Chesapeake's neighborhoods offer diverse options, each with unique character and appeal. Whether you're drawn to the vibrant energy of Greenbrier, the peaceful surroundings of Deep Creek, or the historic charm of South Norfolk, Chesapeake has a place for everyone to call home.
We hope this guide is helpful to you. If you need assistance managing your property or finding the perfect home, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
