National Recognition as a Hot Market: Why Hampton Roads Is Finally Getting the Attention It Deserves

When national analysts started calling Hampton Roads one of the hottest housing markets of 2025, I didn’t flinch. We’ve had the affordability, the stability, and the lifestyle. The difference now is the spotlight—and it’s coming from the big data players, not local hype.

The headline: Virginia Beach rockets up Zillow’s 2025 ranking

Zillow’s official 2025 ranking shows Virginia Beach leaping 23 places from last year to No. 13 among the nation’s 50 largest metros. That jump isn’t luck—it’s the math behind job growth, tight inventory, fast sales, and steady value growth. Zillow MediaRoom

Local proof that backs it up (real numbers, not vibes)

June 2025 set another record here at home. REIN reports the median selling price hit $375,000—up 4.2% year-over-year—with 2,541 settled sales and 5,437 active listings, giving buyers more options while demand stays real. That’s momentum and balance at the same time. REIN

Why buyers are coming (and staying)

People are leaving high-priced pockets of NoVA and D.C. to get actual space, water access, and community—without the $800K townhouse price tag. Add our military backbone with shipbuilding, healthcare, and education, and you’ve got built-in stability that keeps our market resilient even when national headlines wobble.

Rates aren’t spiking like 2023–24—and that matters

NAR’s 2025 outlook points to moderating mortgage rates and improved sales activity. Translation: when rates stop climbing, people stop hesitating—and that’s exactly what we’re seeing in Hampton Roads. NAR+1

What this means if you’re buying or selling in 2025

If you’re buying, move with a plan. Good homes still go fast, and Zillow’s ranking tells you other people are looking here too. If you’re selling, this is a sweet spot: national attention plus local records equals strong pricing power with more qualified buyers in the pool. Let’s figure out the best timing, the prep, and the strategy—so you’re building wealth, not watching from the sidelines.