Welcome to our guide to Norfolk, VA. We keep it short: where the town is, who lives there, and what the water is doing today.
Quick answer: Norfolk, VA is an independent city with about 231,013 residents in 2025. Its tides come from NOAA station 8638654, Norfolk. The closest town in our guide is Hampton, about 13 miles away.
Contents
About Norfolk
Norfolk is an independent city in Virginia. It is not part of any county.[1] About 231,013 people lived there in 2025.[2]
Tides Today
The tide box on this page shows today’s highs and lows. They come from NOAA station 8638654, Norfolk. NOAA tide tables use only past data. Wind and weather can push the water higher or lower.[3]
Nearby Bay Towns
| Town | Miles away (straight line) |
|---|---|
| Hampton | 13 |
| Virginia Beach | 17 |
| Yorktown | 30 |
We measured these from official map points.[1]
Before You Go Out
Check the marine forecast on our tides page first. NOAA says wind forecasts get less sure after one or two days. So check again on the day you go.[3] Then have a good day on the Bay.
Frequently asked questions
What county is Norfolk, VA in? None. Norfolk is an independent city.
How many people live in Norfolk? About 231,013 residents in 2025, according to the Census Bureau.
Where can I see tides for Norfolk? In the tide box on this page, from NOAA station 8638654.
What Bay town is closest to Norfolk? Hampton, about 13 miles away in a straight line.
References
- [1] U.S. Geological Survey, GNIS domestic names files via The National Map – last checked 11/08/2026
- [2] U.S. Census Bureau, County Population Totals: 2020-2025 – last checked 11/08/2026
- [3] NOAA Tides and Currents, Operational Forecast System disclaimer – last checked 11/08/2026
See every town and station on our Chesapeake Bay map.