If you’re thinking of buying a home in Suffolk, it’s best to have a good sense about what the city is like, so you can determine if it is right for you. Suffolk is a large city, and you’ll find that there are many rural homes spread throughout the county. This is our specialty – we buy land in these areas and build customizable new-construction homes in Suffolk, Isle of Wight County, Southampton County, and the surrounding areas. Building in such areas provides our customers with the space, privacy, and peace of mind they’ve been looking for. We aim to help our homeowners be informed as possible – here’s a list of things you should know before moving to Suffolk, VA.
Distinct Regions
Suffolk is so expansive that each part of the city offers something a little different. Here’s a quick breakdown of the main areas:
South Suffolk (Whaleyville and Beyond)
If you’re craving space and tranquility, South Suffolk is the place to be. In areas like Whaleyville, you’ll find wide-open spaces, rural landscapes, and a quieter lifestyle. Homes here are more spread out, and conveniences like shopping and restaurants are a bit farther away. This is where you go to enjoy peaceful living, away from the hustle and bustle.
Central/West Suffolk (Downtown Area)
Downtown Suffolk is the heart of the city. It’s a historic district filled with charming, unique restaurants, shops, and attractions like the popular Suffolk Farmers’ Market. Many community events take place here throughout the year. Surrounding downtown, you’ll find cozy neighborhoods as well as homes scattered across the landscape, not confined to any particular subdivision.
North Suffolk (Harbour View Area)
If you prefer a more modern, developed area, North Suffolk might be for you. Harbour View is a hub of new construction, offering all the amenities you need—big-box stores, movie theaters, and more. This area is also known for its golf courses and convenient access to infrastructure that makes commuting a breeze.
Bennett’s Creek
Also located in Northern Suffolk, Bennett’s Creek is known for its established neighborhoods and scenic beauty. It’s a quieter area but still close enough to all the modern conveniences.
No matter where you live in Suffolk, you’ll still get that close-knit, small-town feel. Life here is slower-paced, and the people are genuinely welcoming.
Commute
One thing to keep in mind about Suffolk is that public transportation options are quite limited. The city is so spread out that buses only cover a few specific areas. So, if you’re planning to move here, you’ll likely need to rely on your car.
That said, the commute times can vary depending on where you live and where you’re heading. For residents in Northern Suffolk, travel time may be shorter and more convenient, thanks to the proximity to major highways. However, if you’re in the more rural parts, like South Suffolk, it might take a little longer to get where you need to go. For many, though, the relaxed lifestyle more than makes up for the added travel time.
Cost of Living
When it comes to affordability, Suffolk offers excellent value for money. Homes here are not only more reasonably priced compared to nearby cities like Virginia Beach and Chesapeake but also tend to sit on larger lots, giving you more space and privacy.
- The median home cost in Suffolk hovers around $366,000, which is below the state average.
- Property taxes are also competitive, sitting at $1.07 per $100 of assessed value. While that’s a bit higher than Virginia Beach and Chesapeake, it’s significantly lower than cities like Norfolk, Portsmouth, and Hampton.
You’ll find that your dollar stretches a lot further in Suffolk, especially if you’re looking for a home with some acreage.
Outdoor Activities
Suffolk is a city that embraces its natural surroundings. With its abundance of trees, farmland, and open spaces, it offers a slower pace of life that’s hard to come by in more built-up areas. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you’ll love the options here.
- Bennett’s Creek Park is a popular local spot, offering scenic beauty and outdoor activities.
- The Great Dismal Swamp is one of Suffolk’s most unique natural attractions, with miles of hiking trails and incredible wildlife.
- Lone Star Lakes Park offers fishing, boating, and serene views that are perfect for a day of relaxation.
Suffolk’s blend of natural beauty and modern amenities is something you won’t find in neighboring cities, making it a truly special place to live.
Living in Suffolk VA
Suffolk has so much to offer to anyone considering making the move. The cost of living is reasonable, the people are friendly, and the slower pace of life is refreshing. If you’d like more information about the things you should know before moving to Suffolk, VA or if you’re interested in building a home in Suffolk, VA, reach out – we’d be happy to show you the AB Homes difference. As builders in the community for over a decade, our dedication to both excellence and uncompromised quality has laid the foundation for a reputation that precedes us.