PCS to Norfolk, VA – A Real-World Guide for Military Families

by Tom And Dariya Milan

When you first get orders to Norfolk, Virginia, the excitement usually comes with a few nerves. Whether it’s your first PCS or your fifth, this move feels different. Norfolk isn’t just another duty station—it’s the heart of Hampton Roads, home to the largest naval base in the world, and surrounded by coastal towns that live and breathe military life.

Tom and Dariya Milan, local Realtors® who’ve helped countless military families relocate here, created this guide to help you plan your move with less stress and more confidence. This isn’t a copy-and-paste relocation article—it’s written from the perspective of people who live and work alongside service families every single day.

Why Norfolk?

Norfolk is more than a base location—it’s a lifestyle. The area blends military tradition with a strong sense of community. From the beaches of Virginia Beach to the quiet neighborhoods of Chesapeake and Suffolk, there’s a place for every type of family.

You’ll find excellent schools, a steady housing market, and endless outdoor activities. The region is designed around military schedules, with local businesses, schools, and even traffic patterns shaped by base life. There’s a reason so many families decide to stay here even after separating or retiring from service.

The 90-Day PCS Countdown

Moving goes smoother when you break it down into realistic steps instead of trying to handle everything at once. Here’s a simple timeline that works for most incoming service members.

90–60 Days Out:

Double-check your orders and entitlements. Make sure dependent info, report dates, and weight allowances are accurate.
Start your housing research early. Decide whether you’ll live on base or off.
If you plan to rent or buy off base, reach out to a local Realtor® familiar with military timelines—someone who can align move-in dates with your arrival window.
Research schools and childcare options if you have kids.

60–30 Days Out:

Schedule your household goods shipment before peak season hits.
Get estimates for travel costs, temporary lodging, and deposits.
Create a moving budget that accounts for things like pet transportation, tolls, or new utilities.
Collect school and medical records early.

30 Days to Go:

Confirm your housing and set up temporary lodging if needed.
Plan your route, especially if you’re driving. Tunnel traffic can be tricky, so knowing the best times to cross helps a lot.
Keep your important documents—orders, IDs, school papers, pet records—in a single folder that travels with you.

Housing: Rent, Buy, or On-Base

Norfolk offers all three options, but each comes with its own pros and cons.

On-Base Housing:
Living on base keeps your commute short and life simpler, but availability is limited. Waitlists can stretch months during peak PCS season.

Renting Off Base:
Renting gives flexibility. Many families rent first to learn the area before buying. BAH rates are usually enough to cover rent, and many landlords around Norfolk are familiar with military lease terms and early termination clauses.

Buying a Home:
Buying can make sense if you plan to be here three years or longer. With VA loan benefits and competitive home prices in Hampton Roads, it’s often cheaper than renting long-term. Local agents who understand BAH budgets and VA loan timelines can make the process seamless.

Popular Neighborhoods for Military Families

Each part of Hampton Roads has a different personality.

Ghent (Norfolk): Historic charm, tree-lined streets, and walkability. Great for those who love city life but want a family-friendly atmosphere.
Larchmont / Edgewater (Norfolk): Quiet, well-kept homes near the water, close to base and schools.
Chesapeake (Greenbrier / Western Branch): Excellent schools and newer homes with more space. A great balance between commute and value.
Virginia Beach (Chick’s Beach / Great Neck): Waterfront access, strong school zones, and an active coastal vibe.
Suffolk (Harbour View): Newer communities, affordable prices, and plenty of land for those who prefer more space.

Before committing, factor in tunnel routes. A house that looks close on the map could take twice as long during rush hour if a tunnel is involved.

Household Goods, Vehicles & Arrival

Start your HHG shipment request as soon as possible. Norfolk’s PCS season gets busy fast. Keep an inventory of your items, especially electronics or high-value pieces.

If you’re shipping a vehicle, confirm local DMV requirements and plan for inspection or registration once you arrive.

For families with pets, bring vaccination records and ID tags, and research local pet-friendly hotels or temporary housing.

On arrival, expect a few weeks of adjustment. Shipments may be delayed, so pack an “essentials box” with everything you’ll need immediately—uniforms, toiletries, basic kitchen items, and school supplies.

Schools, Childcare & Employment

Schools:
Norfolk and the surrounding cities each have their own school districts. Chesapeake and Virginia Beach are often noted for top-rated schools, while Suffolk offers smaller class sizes and newer facilities. Always double-check zoning maps, as they change frequently.

Childcare:
On-base childcare fills fast, so apply early. Off-base, there are many trusted private options, plus military-affiliated programs that prioritize active-duty families.

Spouse Employment:
Hampton Roads has a healthy job market, especially in education, healthcare, logistics, and defense contracting. Military spouse employment centers at the bases provide resume help, job leads, and networking opportunities.

Commute, Lifestyle & Local Culture

Daily life in Norfolk has its quirks. The tunnels—Downtown, Midtown, and Hampton Roads—are part of nearly every commute. Locals plan their schedules around peak times. Once you learn the rhythm, it’s manageable.

Beyond the commute, Norfolk offers much to enjoy: beaches, historic districts, farmers markets, and year-round community events. The area’s culture mixes southern hospitality with coastal energy. It’s friendly, family-oriented, and easy to settle into once you find your neighborhood rhythm.

The weather is another perk. You’ll experience four true seasons, but winters are mild and beach days stretch well into fall. Hurricane season is worth preparing for, but modern homes are built with it in mind.

PCS Timeline Recap

90–60 Days Out: Confirm orders, research housing, request HHG shipment.
60–30 Days Out: Secure housing or apply for on-base housing. Prepare documents and budget for move.
30–0 Days: Finalize travel details, lodging, and utilities. Pack essentials separately.
Arrival: Register on base, enroll kids in school, meet your new community, and take a day or two to explore.

PCS to Norfolk VA: Quick FAQs

When does my BAH change?
Your new BAH rate starts once you officially check in at your new command.

Is Norfolk expensive?
It depends where you live. Norfolk and Chesapeake tend to be more affordable than Virginia Beach’s oceanfront areas.

Are the schools good?
Yes, though quality varies by zone. Chesapeake and Virginia Beach schools are especially well rated.

What about the commute?
Plan for tunnel time. Many families choose housing based on how often they’d have to cross one.

Should I buy right away?
If you’re confident you’ll be here for at least three years, buying with a VA loan can build real equity.

Final Thoughts

Every PCS has its bumps, but Norfolk tends to surprise families in a good way. What feels like just another set of orders often turns into a place people don’t want to leave. The community is tight, the schools are solid, and the scenery—between the bay, the ocean, and the tree-lined streets—makes it feel like home quickly.

Tom and Dariya Milan have helped hundreds of military families make this same transition. They understand the timing, paperwork, and flexibility that PCS moves require. Whether you’re looking to buy, rent, or just explore your options, they’re ready to help you find the home that fits your family and your orders.