Moving to Joint Base Langley–Eustis: A Newcomer’s Guide to Newport News, Virginia

Ah, Newport News! Where wonderful things are happening. Located on the banks of Hampton Roads harbor in southeastern Virginia, this bustling town is just minutes away from Williamsburg and only a short drive away from Virginia Beach. Here you can experience first-hand the rich and vital aspects of American history, ships, military, industry, the Atlantic Ocean, and much more.

Whatever your interests or hobbies are, there’s something here for everyone, and it won’t be long before you come to embrace this region as home. To help get you started in your explorations, we have put together this handy guide in the hopes that it will be a starting point for your adventures in this cool little region. Let’s start with the basics:

• Population: 186,247 people (April 2020)
• Unemployment Rate: 5.2% (March 2022)
• Median Home Price: $233,100 (February 2022)
• Median Household Income:  $54,511 (2020)
• Elevation: 15 ft (4.6 m)
• Mayor: McKinley L. Price
• Primary Airport: Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport
• Average Commute Time: 22.5 minutes

1. There is Something Here for Everyone – Including Families!

As the fifth most populous city in the state of Virginia located at the southeastern tip of the Virginia Peninsula, Newport News is in an area steeped in history and culture. There truly is a little something for everyone here! You’ll have no shortage of opportunities and activities to create a fun, rich, and exciting life. Whether your thing is nature, sports, museums, entertainment, and attractions, or dining out, Newport News has you covered.

Visitors would be well-advised to take a morning stroll or jog along the scenic three-mile asphalt path of Matteson Trail; admire the mythic majesty of Emancipation Oak; grab an afternoon brew at the family-owned Capstan Bar Brewing Company; give the kids a thrill by taking them to the playground at Sandy Bottom Nature Park, a land preserve of 465 acres, complete with a lake and plenty of outdoor activities. Life is in full swing here in Newport News. Don’t miss out! Below is our list of top recommended attractions for guaranteed fun, culture, and entertainment.

• Larry King Law’s Langley Speedway – got the need for speed? Catch an exciting race this NASCAR sanctioned track.
• Chrysler Museum of Art – over 30,000 pieces of ancient, modern, European, and American art form the permanent collection of this treasure house of culture and history.
• Pagoda Garden Tea House & Gallery – A serene oasis in a bustling cityscape. In 1989, the Marine Observation Tower, a.k.a. the Pagoda, was gifted to the Commonwealth of Virginia and the City of Norfolk by the Taiwan Provincial Government. Walkways, architecture, plants, and water… what else could you ask for?
• Town Point Park – known as the People’s Park, these eight acres of outdoor space along the banks of the Elizabeth River are the site of numerous concerts, festivals, and other fun events throughout the year.
• Busch Gardens Williamsburg – for thirty consecutive years the National Amusement Park Historical Association has named Busch Gardens Williamsburg as the “world’s most beautiful theme park.” Roller coasters, thrill rides, family-friendly shows, and delectable dining are just a few of the year-round attractions that make it a fun place for kids of all ages (yes, adults, this includes you, too!)
• Virginia Zoo – take a walk on the wild side at this 100-year-old world-class zoo, home to over 700 animals and over 150 different species of fauna!
• Sandy Bottom Park – a 456-acre environmental and wildlife management facility reclaimed out of borrow pits and garbage dumps. Park amenities include fishing, hiking and biking trails, camping, picnic shelters, boat rentals, and a nature center.
• Bethel Battlefield Paintball Park – with eight different paintball playing courses, adrenaline junkies will get more than their share of excitement here. With names like the Killhouse, Meat Grinder, and No Man’s Land, these obstacle courses are sure to put your skills to the ultimate test!
• Rosie’s Gaming Emporium – feeling lucky? Come gamble at Virginia’s premier casino. Who knows? Maybe you’ll hit the jackpot!
• Huntington Park – a 60-acre park with a public beach facing the James River, with lifeguards on duty. Featuring, a boat ramp, rose garden, tennis center, playground fishing, and concession stands open during the summer months. The Virginia War Museum is also inside the park.
• Buckroe Beach Park and Lighthouse – the park borders Chesapeake Bay with three-quarters of a mile of pristine beach, three picnic shelters, nine tables with grills, stage pavilion, observation peer, playground, concessions, and jet ski, kayak, and paddleboard rentals.
• Walk of Terror Haunted House – come if you dare! Located along the Big Bethel Reservoir, this ghoulish attraction is open exclusively during the summer months, with tickets costing only $15 per person. A small price to pay for such long-lasting frights and nightmares!
• Bluebird Gap Farm – a 60-acre farm located urban environment, home to over 150 domestic and wild animals. The park features a covered pavilion with picnic tables and grills, large playground, nature path with scenic views, a stage for events, a large duck pond, garden, and Arboretum.

2. Newport News Jobs are Plentiful

Throughout the years, the area developed as a strategic location for trade, with economic focus on coal shipping and railroad transportation. This lifeline of the market brought with it a now flourishing economy and a growing population. Today, the economy of Newport News is sustained by three major industries: maritime and shipbuilding, military, and aerospace. The largest employer in the region is Newport News Shipbuilding with over 24,000 employees.

The unemployment rate sits at 5.2%, above the state average (3.8%), but as the economy heals from the devastation of the pandemic, this should improve over time, making this city a true job seeker market. The average salary in Newport News is $64,000. A good hourly wage in Newport News is $18.75. That works out to a good weekly wage of $750 per week and a monthly wage of $3,250 per month.

• The population of JBLE is 145,000 people.
• It has a work force of over 20,000 personnel.
• Founded in 1916, and the first mission was flown in 1917.
• JBLE has an annual economic impact of $3.4 billion.
• Langley AFB is one of the oldest continuously active air bases in the country.
• It was named after the aviation pioneer Samuel Pierpont Langley.
• JBLE is home to fifty F-22s.
• It has a runway length of 10,000 feet.
• JBLE covers over 11,000 acres of land, 600 of which are wetlands.

Additionally, there are many privately-owned companies here that make it a top priority to recruit military and veteran job-seeking candidates. Heck, I’m a 16-year Air Force veteran myself– we military folks tend to settle and make Newport News our permanent home. For my military brethren, feel free to reach out for anything.

3. Newport News is an Affordable Housing Market

The housing market in Newport News is hot right now and extremely competitive. The average home in the area goes for just over $230,000. In February 2022, there were 220 homes sold, which is up 11% year-over-year. That number is expected to increase as demand for affordable housing increases and the economy bounces back from the effects of the pandemic. The average home sells in about 20 days, so you must move fast!

Are you in the market for a new home or looking to sell your current home? Not sure where to start? Fortunately, there are plenty of great resources available, including our very own PCS Joes Veteran Home Advocacy Group. Our specialized real estate team finds beautiful and affordable homes throughout the country for military members. We are dedicated to educating the military on the benefits of homeownership and providing relevant articles such as this one. PCS Joes’ ultimate goal is to teach military members how to leverage their Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) to build wealth, and save money while doing it. With us on your side, you’re definitely in good hands!

4. The History is Rich

The history of this region goes all the way back to around the founding of Jamestown in 1607. Because of its strategic location for trade along the James River (the navigable part of which was called Hampton Roads), Newport News became an area replete with plantations, fishing, railroad transportation, and eventually coal export and shipbuilding. Consequently, there is much to glean here about the founding of the nation and especially military and maritime history. The museums below are just a starting point for your immersion in this culturally rich and important history.

• Emancipation Oak – this is living history, literally. This giant oak tree near the entrance of Hampton University was the site President Abraham Lincoln’s first Southern reading of the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863. It has been designated as one of the Ten Great Trees of the World by the National Geographic Society.
• Virginia Living Museum – for geological history, there is no greater resource.  It is an open-air museum that operates as a combination aquarium, aviary, zoo, botanical garden, science center, exhibiting flora and fauna native to the region. There is even a planetarium!
• Portsmouth Virginia Naval Shipyard Museum – for an in-depth look at local naval history, this is must-see. It preserves naval artifacts, ship models, antique firearms, and cannons, and much more.
• Hampton Roads Naval Museum – another invaluable resource for anyone interested in the naval history of the area, including WWI, Vietnam War, and Civil Rights era exhibits
• Air Power Park – this free outdoor roadside museum offers insight into America’s first ventures into space exploration and aircraft testing. It features over 300 models of vintage aircraft, space launch vehicles, and nautical vessels, and includes a playground for kids.
• MacArthur Memorial – dedicated to presenting the life story and legacy of General of the Army Douglas MacArthur, as well as preserving the history of the millions of people who served in WWI, WWII, and the Korean War.
• Hampton History Museum – this museum highlights over 400 years of the history of Hampton, “America’s Gateway,” with art and artifacts dating from Native American days to the Space Age.
• Virginia War Museum – collecting artifacts (including Harry Truman’s World War I helmet, a section of the Berlin Wall, and part of the outer wall from Dachau concentration camp), propaganda posters, military vehicles, uniforms, and weapons, this museum explores American military history from 1775 to the present day.
• Poquoson Museum – dedicated to preserving the rich cultural and historical heritage of the Poquoson region. It features a museum farmhouse, a learning garden, and a self-guided nature trail that explores the surrounding marsh ecosystem
• The Mariners’ Museum and Park – designated as America’s National Maritime Museum by Congress, this museum is one of the largest maritime history museums in the world. It is also a park situated on 550 acres of naturally wooded land, and includes the 167-acre Mariner’s Lake, the five-mile Noland Trail, and the famous Lions Bridge dam with scenic views of the James River.
• Nauticus – labeled a maritime discovery center and museum, this experiential learning facility uses interactive exhibits, the Battleship Wisconsin, the Schooner Virginia, and a sailing center to tell the story of maritime military history, science, and industry.

5. It’s a Gastronomic Wonderland!

Did somebody say seafood, as in… I see food everywhere! Seriously, there is no shortage of dining options in the Newport News region. Being so close to the ocean, is it any wonder that seafood is a culinary staple of the region? And not just seafood. There is a plethora of cuisine types here, as varied as the ethnic and cultural makeup of the area. Barbecue, Italian, Mexican, Greek, Thai, Steak, Japanese! You name it, Newport News has got it. We’ve compiled a handy little list below of some of the best places to grab a bite, but this is just a jumping-off point to start your gastronomical adventures. Bon appétit!

• Mr. Boil Cajun Seafood & Poke Bowl – who doesn’t love a great seafood boil? Chow down on some authentic Cajun style shrimp, crab, oysters, crawfish, clams, lobsters, mussels, and more. Touted as the most acclaimed casual seafood restaurant in the state of Virginia!
• Fin Seafood – think upscale! This refined dining seafood restaurant serves up only the finest local ingredients and uses organic and sustainable seasonal produce and proteins. It is the perfect spot for a romantic evening for two or a classy business dinner.
• Viking Burger – this isn’t your ordinary plain old fast-food burger. Viking Burger has its devoted customer base for good reason. With menu items named after figures in Norse mythology, you can rest assured that you are in for some epic eats!
• Mission BBQ – founded by two friends with a passion for paying tribute to the soldiers, firefighters, first responders, and police officers who protect and serve this nation, this spot honors their sacrifices by serving up only the best BBQ made from the freshest ingredients. The best part? They give back, having donated over $10 million to national and local charities. Catch them at lunchtime during their daily salute to the good old Stars and Stripes.
• Gus’s Hot Dog King – launched in 1972 by a Greek immigrant named Gus, this spot has perfected the hot dog into an art form. People from all over the world traveled to taste their banging dogs, chili cheese fries, and southern style barbecue. Unfortunately, Gus passed away in 1994, but the business is now run by his wife and son. A true family-owned operation!
• Scoot’s BBQ – ready for some authentic Southern soul food? Bring on the “low and slow” hickory and oak smoked wings, brisket, pulled pork, and sausage, along with sides of collard greens, mac and cheese, potato salad and fried okra. Be sure to wear your elastic waistband eating pants!
• Jose Tequila’s Mexican Grill and Bar – this family-friendly joint offers a wide variety of traditional (and some not-so-traditional Mexican dishes). Enchiladas, street tacos, nachos, fajitas, queso, guacamole, and of course, the ever-famous margarita – it’s all here!
• Craft 60 Taphouse & Grill – with all the food you’ll be chowing down on, you’ll need something to wash it down with. Hampton Road’s premier craft beer restaurant features an extensive menu of handcrafted brews and delectable food dishes to accompany, like their Thai Shrimp, crab dip, oyster tacos, grilled ribeye, and Belly Buster burger!
• Aago – this authentic Indian/Nepalese restaurant serves up flavorful Indian and Himalayan fare in a relaxed and comfortable setting. Fish curry, biriyani, lentil soup, vegetable samosa, and lamb kebab are just a few of the customer favorites. Plenty of great options for vegans and vegetarians!
• Charlotte’s Café – the only thing that beats great food is great food in a cozy, comfy atmosphere. Serving up Mediterranean and American cuisine, with an emphasis on grilled fish, meat, and vegetables, this spot will make you feel right at home. Be sure to check out their stellar bakery for dessert.
• Byrd’s Restaurant – who doesn’t love a great breakfast place? Here you’ll get tradition American lunch and breakfast options but with a Southern twist. Chicken and waffles, omelets, eggs Benedict, sandwiches, hot coffee, cinnamon rolls… bring it on!

6. It’s a Great Place to Get Fit and Stay Fit

Now, it might be necessary to work off all that eating! Don’t worry. Newport News has got you covered. It’s as easy to find opportunity to shed the pounds in this city as it is to pack them on. With all the beaches and parks, Newport News is practically a runner’s paradise (seriously, runners: check out the Noland Trail discussed above, and thank us later). Trails, sports facilities, outdoor activities, and gymnasiums abound!

Certainly, Newport News has major gyms and fitness brands like Planet Fitness and Orangetheory, but it also has dozens of smaller and more specialized facilities, such as CrossFit gyms. We have already covered a few of the many parks in the area. But in addition to those places, here are some of our favorite local spots to help you get your sweat on!

• Huntington Park Tennis Center – outdoor lighted hard-courts, classes, clinics, leagues, and tournaments.
• Matteson Trail – a three-mile scenic asphalt nature trail located near the Police Training Center.
• Newport News Golf Club at Deer Run – a public facility with 36 holes of Championship golf.
• Newport News Park – at over 7,500 acres, this is one of the largest municipal parks in the entire country with amenities for hiking, archery, disc golf, mountain biking, picnicking, paddle boating, canoeing, archery and freshwater fishing! An outdoor lover’s paradise.
• Warwick Recreation Center – a facility for recreation youth and adult programs, including a gym available for rental.
• Stoney Run Athletic Complex – an outdoor field complex available for softball, baseball, soccer, and field hockey.
• Onelife Fitness – a fitness club with amenities for swimming, basketball, studio classes, total body wellness programs, plus a childcare center.
• Coastal Strength & Fitness – a fitness facility that focuses on coaching, group fitness, and nutrition coaching to help you meet your goals.
• An Achievable Dream Tennis Center – indoor tennis and basketball courts air-conditioned year-round for comfort.
• CrossFit Oyster Point – personal training and group training make this CrossFit facility a standout.
• Total Fitness – one of the oldest gyms in the area (started in the 1950s), which means that it is well-established and that these people know what they are doing and how to help you meet your fitness goals.
• Kiln Creek Golf Club and Resort – an all-inclusive facility featuring an 18-hole Championship golf course, fitness center, swimming pool, and restaurant.
• Burn Boot Camp – franchise gym with a focus on coaching, nutrition, and women’s fitness.
• Jungle Gym – a training facility offering group strength and conditioning classes.
• 757 ROC – offers group functional fitness classes for all levels with a focus on weight loss.
• Point 2 Running Company – a running store with an awesome staff to help you find what you need for that next big race.

7. It’s a Safe City

Safety is a top priority for the city of Newport News. According to NeighborhoodScout, the chances of being victim of a violent or property crime in Newport News is currently one in thirty-nine. CrimeGrade.org ranks Newport News in the 45^th percentile for safety, which is about average. Locals tend to consider the westside of town to be the safest and the southside to be the most dangerous. That may be something to be aware of while exploring town.

But the good news is that things are getting better. Both the Newport News Police Department and the Sherriff’s Office report declining rates of crime in the past few years. Various community programs, such as The Crime Line (1-888-LOCK-U-UP), Project Lifesaver, Safety for Our Seniors, Project Guardian for people with Autism, and the RapidSOS Voluntary Citizen Database, have been formed for the specific reason of continuing to make Newport News a safer place for everyone.

8. The Schools Are Top Notch

Newport News Public Schools is the main provider of primary and secondary education in the city. Their fully accredited elementary, middle, and high schools are distinguished in their program offerings for gifted and talented students, STEM magnet programs, and the International Baccalaureate (IB) program at Warwick High School.

Additionally, there are many great private schools throughout the area that provide specialized and religious education in addition to the standard educational requirements. These schools include Denbigh Baptist Christian School, Hampton Roads Academy, Peninsula Catholic High School, Trinity Lutheran School, and Warwick River Christian Preschool and Learning Center.

Local and nearby institutions of higher education include Christopher Newport University, Old Dominion University, Norfolk State University, The William & Mary, Hampton University, and Thomas Nelson Community College.

9. Sports Fans Will Get Their Fill

Okay, sports nuts, break out the coolers and the fan gear! Newport News is home to plenty of sports franchises to keep you cheering all year long. Sports is a huge part of the culture of Newport News. After all, legends like Michael Vick and Mike Tomlin come from Newport News.

Whether it’s the semi-pro football Mason Dixon League’s Peninsula Pirates or the Virginia Crusaders that you are rooting for, or the Christopher Newport University Captains, or one of the high school football teams, which form a major part of the city’s sports craze, you will have no shortage of opportunity to experience alongside your favorite team the glory of the win or the agony of defeat.

Favorite local sports teams can also be found at one of the several local universities and colleges surrounding the Newport News region. Women’s sports teams are equally abundant. The Hampton Roads Piranhas have both male and female teams. Additionally, the Atlantic 10 Conference is headquartered in Newport News.

If you are more of a player than a spectator, there are many amateur leagues to join through the Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism. Plus, the One City Marathon is also hosted annually in Newport News and is a qualifier for the Boston Marathon.

10. The City is Just Plain Beautiful

Finally, the one thing you can say for sure about this city is that it is just plain beautiful. Beauty abounds! Whether you are strolling along the fountain at City Center at Oyster Point or driving through the streets of historic Hilton Village or jogging along Huntington Park Beach, there is always something beautiful to see here.

Have a sense of adventure and open your eyes to the sights of your new home. Take it all in. Newport News has much to offer.

A Few Parting Words Before You Make the Big Move

This is an exciting moment in your life. Relocating to a new city is a big step in anyone’s life, and we know how stressful that can be. Hopefully, this article provides you with a few resources for you to begin your new life in this wonderful city. And Newport News really is a wonderful city! It is a unique and vibrant place that will offer you every opportunity to live your life to the fullest and to raise your family. 

Welcome to your new home. If you enjoyed this article, please consider sharing it with your friends via social media. Share the love!