City Profile
Suffolk, Virginia
USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
Suffolk, Virginia, an independent city in the Hampton Roads metropolitan area, blends historical charm with modern development. Known for its rich history, particularly its ties to the peanut industry, Suffolk has earned the nickname 'Peanut Capital of the World'. The city was formally established in 1742 and has grown significantly, especially since the advent of railroads in the early 1800s. Today, Suffolk is the largest city in Virginia by land area and offers a sparse suburban feel, attracting families and young professionals seeking a balance of natural beauty, community spirit, and convenient access to larger urban centers like Norfolk and Virginia Beach. Its strategic location at the intersection of major highways and proximity to the Port of Virginia also makes it a hub for logistics and distribution.
Virginia, a Mid-Atlantic state, offers a diverse character ranging from its historic eastern regions to the Appalachian Mountains in the west. Its economy is well-balanced and diverse, with major industries including professional, scientific, and technical services, healthcare, retail trade, and a significant defense and government contracting sector, particularly in Northern Virginia. While the cost of living can be high in areas like Northern Virginia, it is generally considered moderate statewide, with more affordable options in other regions. The state experiences all four distinct seasons, with warm summers and generally mild winters, and offers a lifestyle that blends urban amenities with abundant outdoor activities and rich historical sites.
How this 62/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
| Component | Readings used | Points | Weight | Contributes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | Safety score: 68 / 100 | 68.0 | 30% | 20.4 |
| Affordability | Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 98.0 | 46.3 | 25% | 11.6 |
| Economy & jobs | Median household income: $92,666 Income needed to live here: $67,872 Unemployment rate: 4% | 72.8 | 20% | 14.6 |
| Growth | Population growth rate: 1.64% Job growth rate: 1.3% | 56.0 | 15% | 8.4 |
| Business climate assessment | Business climate assessment: 70 / 100 | 70.0 | 10% | 7.0 |
| Overall score | 61.9 | |||
Provenance.
These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as
Gemini (Tier 2 (reasoned), q=77), last refreshed
5 October 2026.
They are researched estimates drawn from public sources, not a licensed data feed.
Each component is scored against fixed published endpoints, so this number is comparable with any other city and does not move as the dataset grows. Scoring framework 2026.10 — full methodology, weights and accepted ranges.
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Cost of Living
The cost of living in Suffolk, VA, is generally considered affordable, sitting approximately 2.1% below the national average as of 2024. While housing costs can be a significant expense, they are often lower than in some neighboring Virginia cities, offering good value in terms of space and community amenities. Utilities, including electricity, water, sewer, and trash, average around $324.74 per month as of 2026, with sewer costs being notably higher than the Virginia city average. Food costs for a single person are estimated at about $360 per month. Overall, Suffolk provides a balanced and predictable expense for essential services, making it an attractive option for those seeking quality living at reasonable prices.
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Suffolk's economy is diverse and has shown positive growth, with employment increasing by 1.3% over the past year. The city's strategic location, with access to major highways and the Port of Virginia, has fostered a strong logistics and distribution sector, attracting major companies like Amazon and Target, which operate large distribution centers here. Healthcare and Social Assistance is the largest employment sector, followed by Manufacturing and Retail Trade. Other significant employers include Suffolk Public Schools, local government, and defense contractors like Lockheed Martin. The job market is favorable, with future job growth projected at 35.2% over the next ten years, slightly above the U.S. average.
The average salary in Suffolk is $48,468 per year. You would need approximately $67,872 to live comfortably.
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Getting around Suffolk primarily requires a car, as the city is considered car-dependent with a low Walk Score of 15. While some specific locations may have higher walkability, most errands necessitate driving. The average commute time for residents is 30.2 minutes, which is slightly longer than the national average. Public transportation options are limited, contributing to the reliance on personal vehicles. Despite ongoing road widening projects, traffic can be a concern during peak hours due to recent development.
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