Lifestyle and Facts

Lifestyle

The Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic Ocean surroundings contribute to a unique and pleasurable lifestyle. Outdoor recreation possibilities are numerous and varied. Activities enjoyed by natives and visitors alike include boating, swimming, hiking, biking, camping, crabbing, fishing, or simply observing wildlife in its natural setting. Miles of unspoiled ocean beaches are available on the barrier islands that line the coast. Northampton County offers public parks and athletic facilities. Organized athletics and team sports for youth and adults are available through the local public recreation and parks department. Two private membership golf courses are available within the community.

Lifestyle


The Eastern Shore and Fisherman Island National Wildlife Refuge is in southern Northampton County. This refuge is administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service that permits hiking, fishing, bird watching, and provides narrated tours.

The Nature Conservatory and the state and federal governments maintain a 45-mile stretch of seaside barrier islands in their natural state. The public can access most of these islands. They are renowned for their expansive beaches, surrounding lush salt marshes, and great concentrations of shorebirds, seabirds, and migrating water fowl.

Residents can take advantage of a regular schedule of dramatic performances by local theater groups on the Eastern Shore. Norfolk, an hour's drive away, affords a tremendous variety of cultural and entertainment options including drama, concerts, museums, and sporting events.


Facts and Information

Locality Profile

Total Population (2020 Census)

12,282 Total

Per Capita Income (2020) - $31,959

Median Household Income (2020)- $50,819

Unemployment Rate (2019) - 4.7% 


EMPLOYMENT BY INDUSTRY (NON-GOVERNMENT) 2021

Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing and Hunting 802 18.8%

Accommodations and Food Services 580 13.6%

Health Care and Social Assistance 507 11.9%

Retail Trade 441 10.3%

Manufacturing 240  5.6%

Construction 114 2.7% 


Major Employers 2021

Northampton County Public Schools

County of Northampton 

Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel

Ballard Fish and Oyster Co.

David's Nursery

Food Lion 

New Ravenna Acquisitions, LLC  

Eastern Shore Rural Health

Bay Creek Resort, LLC

Tankard's Nursery 


Education

Elementary 2 (Grades Pre-K - 5th)

Middle School 1 (Grades 6th - 8th)

High School 1 (Grades 9th - 12)

 

Private Education

Broadwater Academy

Cape Charles Christian School

Shore Christian Academy

Higher Education Facility

Eastern Shore Community College


Climate

Average January temp. High 47ºF/ Low 32ºF

Average July temp. High 85ºF / Low 71ºF

Average annual precipitation 46"

Average annual snowfall 5"