Key Takeaways
The average rent in Virginia Beach, VA in 2025 is around $1,728–$1,756/month, depending on size and data source. (RentCafe)
Rent increases have been modest in 2025 compared with boom years, but costs remain elevated across many neighborhoods.
Some neighborhoods remain relatively affordable compared with citywide averages while others, especially those nearer the coast or high-demand areas, command much higher rents.
Vacancies in the statewide multifamily market have increased, giving renters a bit more leverage and choice at least in certain unit types. (Virginia REALTORS®)
Potential tenants should carefully evaluate budget, size, neighborhood, and competition and consider working with experienced local property managers to find the best deals.
If you are looking to rent in Virginia Beach in 2025, you are entering a market that remains competitive but shows signs of modest stabilization. Rent levels remain higher than national averages in many parts of the city, yet the pace of growth has eased compared to earlier years. For tenants whether singles, families, or military personnel understanding where the rental market stands now can help you make smarter decisions, avoid rent shock, and find a home that fits both your needs and your budget.
In this article, we walk you through current rent levels, neighborhood differences, supply and vacancy dynamics, what renters can expect in 2025, and practical tips for navigating the rental process in Virginia Beach.
Rent Levels in Virginia Beach What 2025 Data Shows
Citywide Averages
According to recent data compiled in late 2025, the average rent for apartments in Virginia Beach falls around $1,728 per month, with the average unit size across all apartments being approximately 975 square feet.
Another source shows a slightly higher median of $1,756/month up by about $16 from the month before.
Depending on bedroom count and size, local data indicate the following typical rents:
| Unit Type | Approximate Rent (2025) |
|---|---|
| Studio | $1,479/month |
| 1-Bedroom | $1,548/month |
| 2-Bedroom | $1,751/month |
| 3-Bedroom | $2,108/month |
These numbers give a practical sense of what tenants pay now in a typical “average” apartment in Virginia Beach.
Broader Ranges & Market Variety
However, data from other sources suggest greater variation depending on type of rental (apartment, condo, single-family home, etc.), location, and size. One listing of all property types shows rents for all-bedroom counts with a median around $2,031. (Zumper - Apartments for Rent & Houses)
Meanwhile, some aggregate rental-market trackers place the “average” at about $2,200 though that includes a wide range of property types, from small apartments to large houses. (Zillow)
What this tells you: where you end up living such as neighborhood, building type, unit size will make a big difference.
Neighborhoods Matter: Affordability Varies Widely
Not all parts of Virginia Beach are priced equally. Some neighborhoods remain more affordable, while others especially popular or coastal areas remain high-cost. Here is a snapshot of neighborhood-level rent differences from 2025 data.
More Affordable Neighborhoods
Some neighborhoods tend to offer lower rents than citywide averages, which could suit renters on tighter budgets or those who prefer value over amenities. Examples from recent data:
Washington Square among the lowest-cost neighborhoods, with rents well below average.
Rosegate, Arbor Brook – also among the more affordable pockets of Virginia Beach.
Higher-Cost / High-Demand Areas
On the other hand, certain neighborhoods carry a premium often due to location, amenities, or demand (proximity to coast, military, employment centers, etc.). For example:
Cape Story by the Sea one of the priciest, where average listed rents are noticeably higher than citywide.
Timberlake, Brenneman Farm also on the higher end compared with many other neighborhoods.
What to Take From This
If you are flexible about location, you may find lower-cost options significantly below the average citywide rent.
If you desire proximity to certain amenities (beach, coastal zones, new developments, etc.), expect to pay a premium.
Always compare rents not only on price, but on square footage, amenities, commute time, and neighborhood features.
Supply, Vacancy, and Market Dynamics in 2025
Vacancy Rates & Statewide Rental Trends
A 2025 report from Virginia REALTORS® shows that the vacancy rate across the state’s multifamily market rose to 6.6% in Q1 2025, up from 6.3% the previous year.
In Virginia generally, effective rents per unit increased about 3.4% year-over-year as of Q1 2025 indicating that despite more vacancies, rents remain elevated overall across the state’s metro areas.
What This Means for Virginia Beach Renters
The increasing vacancy rate suggests more supply which may translate into more available units, and possibly a slightly softer rental competition than in overheated years.
However, because rent increases continue statewide, landlords still appear confident in demand, especially for desirable units.
For renters, this could signal a modest opportunity to negotiate especially in mid- to lower-rise buildings, or outside of the highest-demand neighborhoods.
What 2025 Renters Should Watch Out For
When searching for a rental in Virginia Beach in 2025, prospective tenants should be mindful of several factors that can significantly affect their experience and costs.
Budget vs. Market Reality
While average and median rents give a useful baseline, actual costs vary substantially depending on unit type, size, neighborhood, and amenities. Relying solely on a single “average rent” figure can lead to mismatched expectations.
Further, if you rely on smaller incomes or a budget-conscious lifestyle even averages may still feel steep. Many affordable units may sit in neighborhoods with less desirable commute times or amenities.
Lease Terms, Additional Costs & Hidden Fees
Always check what the rent includes (utilities, water, parking, maintenance, etc.). In coastal areas or older homes, additional costs may be significant.
If you have pets, children, or require more space, factor in higher rents and possible fees.
Lease-length flexibility can matter: shorter leases may be harder to find or more expensive per month.
Demand from Specific Groups
Because part of the rental demand in Virginia Beach comes from military personnel (and related transient populations), availability can shift rapidly depending on naval or defense-related moves. High-demand areas may stay competitive, while other areas may see more turnover affecting stability and pricing.
Income vs. Rent Ratio
Make sure your income supports the rent comfortably. Households relying on modest pay may find it difficult, especially if utilities, commuting, and other costs stack up. It’s not uncommon for renters to spend a large portion of income on housing in high-cost areas.
Practical Strategies for Renters in 2025
If you are hunting for a rental in Virginia Beach this year, here are some actionable tips to help you secure a good home at a reasonable price:
Broaden Your Neighborhood Search
Don’t limit your search to high-demand or coastal neighborhoods. Consider more affordable areas like those identified above (e.g., Washington Square, Rosegate, Arbor Brook). You may find better value without sacrificing too much on commute or convenience.
Use a Local, Experienced Property Manager
Working with a trusted property management company — such as ours at Abrams Realty — can help you access a wider inventory, benefit from professional screening, and potentially negotiate better terms. Our approach has always been “service before sales.”
Prioritize Stability and Total Cost Over “Low Rent”
Make sure to evaluate the total cost: rent, utilities, commuting, neighborhood amenities, and lease terms. A slightly higher but more stable, safer, and better-located rental may be more cost-effective over time than a cheap unit in a poor location.
Be Ready to Move Quickly or Be Flexible
Because of demand (military moves, coastal rentals, seasonal needs), the best units may lease quickly. Have paperwork ready, stay flexible on move-in dates (if possible), and consider being open to a broader set of options.
Keep Long-Term Goals in Mind
If you anticipate staying for several years, think about how rent increases, cost of living changes, and your career plans may affect affordability. Use renting as a stepping stone and budget accordingly.
Why 2025 Still Matters And What’s Ahead
Even though 2025 has not seen the dramatic rent spikes of the past few years, the rental market in Virginia Beach remains tight. Rents are still elevated relative to many parts of the country particularly in high-demand neighborhoods or for larger units.
But with rising vacancy rates statewide, and a fluctuating supply of multifamily units, renters may have more leverage than a few years ago. For tenants who invest time in research, act decisively, and use local expertise, 2025 could be a reasonable time to find a rental that balances cost, comfort, and convenience.
As a tenant-focused property management firm operating across Virginia Beach and the broader region, we at Abrams Realty believe in helping renters navigate these dynamics confidently. Whether you are looking for a studio, a family home, or something in between, getting the right support can make all the difference.
