Introduction

Investing in rental properties can be a lucrative venture, providing steady income and potential for property value appreciation. However, not all rental properties are created equal. A good rental property typically offers a balance of affordability, high rental demand, low vacancy rates, and potential for property appreciation. The location is paramount as it influences all these factors significantly.

Virginia Beach County, VA, with its unique blend of vibrant urban life and serene natural beauty, offers a plethora of opportunities for rental property investment. This guide will provide an in-depth overview of the best neighborhoods in Virginia Beach County, graded on various important factors to help you make an informed decision.

Best Neighborhoods in Virginia Beach County, VA

1. Great Neck

Grades:

• Convenience: A
• Tourist Attractions: B
• Things to Do: B+
• Avg Home Prices: B
• Return on Investment: A-
• Proximity to Work-Related Travel: B+
• X-Factor: A

Convenience: A
Great Neck boasts excellent access to schools, shopping centers, and healthcare facilities. Its central location makes commuting to various parts of Virginia Beach County easy and convenient.

Tourist Attractions: B
While not a primary tourist hotspot, Great Neck is close to several attractions such as the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center and the Ocean Breeze Waterpark.

Things to Do: B+
The area offers numerous parks, recreational facilities, and restaurants, catering to diverse tastes and lifestyles.

Avg Home Prices: B
Home prices in Great Neck are relatively affordable compared to other high-demand areas, making it a viable option for investors.

Return on Investment: A-
With steady rental demand and reasonable home prices, Great Neck offers a promising return on investment.

Proximity to Work-Related Travel: B+
The neighborhood is reasonably close to major employment hubs and convention centers, making it attractive for professionals.

X-Factor: A
Great Neck's unique blend of suburban tranquility and urban convenience makes it a highly desirable location for families and professionals alike.

2. Oceanfront

Grades:

• Convenience: B+
• Tourist Attractions: A+
• Things to Do: A+
• Avg Home Prices: C
• Return on Investment: B+
• Proximity to Work-Related Travel: A
• X-Factor: A+

Convenience: B+
Oceanfront offers good access to amenities, although it can get crowded, especially during the tourist season.

Tourist Attractions: A+
This area is the heart of Virginia Beach tourism, with endless attractions including the boardwalk, beaches, and various events and festivals.

Things to Do: A+
From water sports to nightlife, Oceanfront has a plethora of activities for all ages, making it a bustling and vibrant place to live and visit.

Avg Home Prices: C
Home prices in Oceanfront are on the higher side, reflecting its popularity and prime location.

Return on Investment: B+
Despite the high home prices, the rental demand is robust, offering a good return on investment.

Proximity to Work-Related Travel: A
With numerous hotels, convention centers, and a thriving tourism industry, Oceanfront is well-suited for work-related travel.

X-Factor: A+
The unparalleled beach access and vibrant lifestyle make Oceanfront a unique and highly desirable area.

3. Chic’s Beach

Grades:

• Convenience: B
• Tourist Attractions: B+
• Things to Do: B
• Avg Home Prices: B+
• Return on Investment: B+
• Proximity to Work-Related Travel: B
• X-Factor: B+

Convenience: B
Chic’s Beach offers decent access to essential amenities, although it is more residential and less commercial.

Tourist Attractions: B+
The area is close to the Chesapeake Bay, providing access to beautiful beaches and outdoor activities.

Things to Do: B
Chic’s Beach is quieter than Oceanfront but offers a relaxed, beach-centric lifestyle with various local eateries and bars.

Avg Home Prices: B+
Home prices here are more affordable than Oceanfront, making it attractive for investors.

Return on Investment: B+
The steady demand for rental properties, particularly from families and retirees, ensures a good return on investment.

Proximity to Work-Related Travel: B
It’s relatively close to major roadways and employment hubs, although not as central as some other areas.

X-Factor: B+
Chic’s Beach’s laid-back vibe and scenic beauty make it a charming and desirable location.

4. Kempsville

Grades:

• Convenience: A-
• Tourist Attractions: B-
• Things to Do: B
• Avg Home Prices: A-
• Return on Investment: A-
• Proximity to Work-Related Travel: A-
• X-Factor: B

Convenience: A-
Kempsville offers excellent access to schools, shopping centers, and healthcare facilities, making it highly convenient for residents.

Tourist Attractions: B-
While not a primary tourist destination, Kempsville is close to several parks and historical sites.

Things to Do: B
The area offers various recreational activities, including parks, golf courses, and community events.

Avg Home Prices: A-
Home prices in Kempsville are quite reasonable, making it an attractive option for investors.

Return on Investment: A-
With its affordability and steady rental demand, Kempsville promises a good return on investment.

Proximity to Work-Related Travel: A-
The area is well-connected to major roadways and employment centers, making commuting easy.

X-Factor: B
Kempsville’s strong sense of community and family-friendly atmosphere make it a desirable place to live.

5. Sandbridge

Grades:

• Convenience: B-
• Tourist Attractions: A
• Things to Do: B+
• Avg Home Prices: C+
• Return on Investment: B+
• Proximity to Work-Related Travel: B
• X-Factor: A-

Convenience: B-
Sandbridge is more secluded, offering fewer amenities within close proximity but providing a peaceful, beach-centric lifestyle.

Tourist Attractions: A
Known for its stunning beaches and wildlife refuge, Sandbridge is a major draw for tourists seeking a serene escape.

Things to Do: B+
The area offers plenty of outdoor activities such as beach outings, fishing, and kayaking, although it lacks the nightlife of Oceanfront.

Avg Home Prices: C+
Home prices are on the higher side due to its desirable location and scenic beauty.

Return on Investment: B+
High rental demand during the tourist season ensures a good return on investment, especially for vacation rentals.

Proximity to Work-Related Travel: B
While more remote, Sandbridge is still within reasonable driving distance to major employment centers.

X-Factor: A-
Sandbridge’s tranquil, natural beauty and exclusive beach access make it a unique and highly desirable location.

Conclusion

Investing in rental properties in Virginia Beach County, VA, offers a variety of opportunities depending on your investment goals. From the bustling lifestyle of Oceanfront to the tranquil charm of Sandbridge, each area provides unique advantages. By considering factors such as convenience, tourist attractions, things to do, average home prices, return on investment, proximity to work-related travel, and the unique 'X-factor,' investors can find the perfect location to unlock their investment potential.