Located across the James River from Newport News lies Smithfield, a former Colonial seaport with small-town charm. “It’s a good town to live in and to raise kids, too,” says Jimmy Auvil, broker/owner of 1st Advantage Realty, and a lifelong Smithfield resident who’s been selling homes here for 15 years. “Everybody knows everybody and looks out for each other. It’s a place we’ll always stay.” Smithfield Foods, Inc. is the town’s largest employer. With its proximity to the rest of Hampton Roads, there are also government jobs available, including at Newport News Shipyard and Naval Station Norfolk.
Historic downtown Smithfield is perfect for shopping, with restored storefronts and charm.
A quaint walking path weaves through the charming downtown area of Smithfield.
1/2
Single-family homes range from older Victorians to new traditionals
Homes in Smithfield include late-1800s Victorians, ranch-style homes and colonial revivals from the mid- to late-1900s as well as modern traditional styles. “There’s a pretty broad price range in Smithfield, and the market is hot over here,” Auvil says. Older home styles are found closer to the city’s historic downtown, while the suburbs that surround it offer more modern styles. The town also has waterfront properties, many of which have private boat docks with access to the James River. The median price for single-family homes in Smithfield is $495,000, compared to the national median of $418,700 reported by the National Association of Realtors. There are also a few townhome communities around the city with a median price of $330,000.
Smithfield’s townhomes offer comfortable living in a quiet, close-knit community.
Smithfield is home to many century-old homes.
1/2
Top marks for Smithfield schools
Students in Smithfield attend Isle of Wight County Schools, which collectively earn a B-plus. Most older students attend Smithfield High, which has a dual enrollment partnership with nearby Paul D. Camp Community College.
Smithfield High School offers a quality education and dual enrollment opportunities.
Paul D. Camp Community College offers dual enrollment for students at Smithfield High.
1/2
Parking and riding across Hampton Roads
The Hampton Roads Transit Park and Ride on Main Street and a bus stop at the Smithfield meat packing plant offer commuters public transit options. Those driving in and out of town can take Highway 258 south to Portsmouth and Highway 17 to get to Newport News. “People like that Smithfield has a small town feel and isn’t busy, but it’s still easy to get to the busier parts of the area if you need to,” says Auvil.
Restored historic storefronts of downtown Smithfield
Smithfield’s small-town charm is evident in its historic downtown, where local shops and eateries occupy restored buildings. Main Street has popular local eateries like the Wharf Hill Brewing Company, Smithfield Gourmet Bakery and Smithfield Ice Cream Parlor. “That’s my kids' favorite place to go for ice cream,” says Auvil. Locals can also browse Main Street’s stores, including Hamtown Mercantile with over 40 local boutiques.
Smithfield Ice Cream Parlor is a local favorite for sweet treats and family outings.
Go shopping at Hamtown Mercantile on Main Street in Smithfield.
1/2
Trails and a natural playscape at Windsor Castle Park
The town’s largest attraction is Windsor Castle Park, a more than 200-acre riverside area that was originally part of the historic Windsor Castle Farm. The park offers over 4 miles of walking and biking trails, a natural playscape with a rock-climbing wall, a fishing pier, kayak launch and a fenced dog park. Windsor Castle Park is also home to some of the town's most popular festivals. The Wine & Brew Fest takes place in the spring, the Bacon, Bourbon & Music Fest is in the fall and the BOB Fest – bloody marys, oysters, Brunswick stew and BBQ – is held in the winter.
Smithfield’s history is on display at the Isle of Wight County Museum, which is home to local artifacts like the world’s oldest ham. The Luter Family YMCA is on James Street with an indoor gym and pool. The Smithfield Little Theatre has been putting on plays in town since 1962. And Cypress Creek Golfers’ Club is a semi-private 18-hole course just 3 miles away.
Stroll along Windsor Castle Park's numerous scenic paths.
The Luter Family YMCA in Smithfield offers a gym, pool, and programs for all ages.
1/2
Crime stats and flood risks
According to data reported to the FBI, the town had a 40% increase in violent crime from 2022 to 2023. Property crime increased 4% during the same period. Overall crime rates in Smithfield are slightly below state and national averages.
With its many creeks and rivers, flooding can be an issue for homeowners close to waterways. Isle of Wight County has a flood map online that can let residents know if their home is eligible for discounted flood insurance with the National Flood Insurance Program.
Written By
Logan Soter-Reardon
Photography Contributed By
Lindsay Lack
Video By
Benjamin Rose
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Mary Barclay,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
On average, homes in Smithfield, VA sell after 50 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Smithfield, VA over the last 12 months is $465,011, down 33% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome home to the move-in ready Rembert at Mallory Pointe. Designed for those who want space & simplicity, this home offers a first-floor primary suite that feels like a true retreat. At the heart of the home, the gourmet kitchen invites connection, featuring an expansive chef’s island & a tucked-away butler’s pantry. The kitchen flows seamlessly into a bright, welcoming living space where
Welcome home to Mallory Pointe, where life feels easier & a lot more comfortable in the beautifully designed move-in ready Rembert floorplan. Start your mornings in a 1st-floor primary suite that feels like a retreat - complete with an oversized walk-in closet and a spa-inspired bath. The heart of the home is a warm, open kitchen with a large island, stainless steel appliances, & a tucked-away
Move-in ready and thoughtfully designed, this Easton home delivers effortless living with room to evolve - without sacrificing comfort or style. This home embraces the ease of main-level living, offering three first-floor bedrooms including a private primary retreat that feels calm & comfortable. The open-concept gourmet kitchen makes a statement with an oversized chef’s island, wall oven, and
This elegant home features an open and spacious design. A large kitchen with central island provides the perfect place to entertain or have a quiet breakfast. Plenty of storage, with a window view and efficient working spaces. Adjacent to the kitchen you will find a dining area and living room perfect for entertaining your guests. The Owner's suite features tray ceilings and an amazing luxurious
Rare opportunity on historic Main Street in the heart of Smithfield! 311 Main St is full of charm, visibility, and potential in one of the town’s most desirable and recognizable locations. A big, beautiful front porch adds classic Main Street character and creates an inviting first impression. Set along Smithfield’s walkable downtown corridor, this property is surrounded by local shops,
Welcome to Mallory Pointe, a charming new neighborhood nestled in the heart of Smithfield, VA, where the essence of small-town living harmonizes with the coastal lifestyle of Virginia. This master-planned community is designed for connection, featuring preserved green spaces and walkable streets that foster a true sense of belonging. Whether you're expanding your family or looking to downsize,
Cypress Creek in Smithfield is premier living and feels like a retreat. Enjoy the scenic drive in, winding past grand homes and golfers, setting the tone this community is known for. Tucked in a quiet cul-de-sac, this like-new 2023 Hanover model offers 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths and a layout that shines from the moment you enter. A distinct foyer with a private office leads to an open living space
Available NOW!!! This gorgeous home epitomizes excellence in architecture with an open, non-confining floor plan. The open spacious kitchen features a large kitchen island, providing the perfect prep space. Off the great room, views of your enclosed patio light up the living space. The enclosed patio provides endless possibilities: relax and read in the afternoon or enjoy your morning coffee. The
Nestled in the charming Town of Smithfield, VA, Mallory Pointe is a master-planned community that perfectly combines small-town allure with the vibrant lifestyle of Coastal Virginia. Introducing The Rembert, a stunning single-family home that exemplifies the best of contemporary living. Spanning 3,175 square feet, this residence features five spacious bedrooms, including a primary suite
This gorgeous home epitomizes excellence in architecture with an open, non-confining floor plan. The open spacious kitchen features a large kitchen island, providing the perfect prep space. Off the great room, views of your enclosed patio light up the living space. The enclosed patio provides endless possibilities: relax and read in the afternoon or enjoy your morning coffee. The spacious master
DEEP DEEP WATER!!! Beautiful waterfront views out to the Pagan River and conveniently located next to Smithfield Station! The value is in the land!! The possibilities are endless! Property is being sold as-is/where-is.
Check out this incredible gem! This beautiful 3 bedroom home with a spacious loft offers 2.5 bathrooms and is perfectly situated on a desirable corner lot. This well maintained home has a large fenced-in backyard, eat-in kitchen, ample common living space, and so much more. Enjoy the convenience of a 2-car attached garage, plus access to a charming community with shopping just minutes away. Homes
Welcome to Mallory Pointe, a charming new neighborhood nestled in the heart of Smithfield, VA, where the essence of small-town living meets the beauty of Coastal Virginia. This master-planned community offers a unique blend of modern convenience and natural beauty, making it an ideal place for families looking to expand or those seeking a cozy retreat. With preserved green spaces and walkable
WELCOME TO THE SUSSEX, ANOTHER WONDERFUL CREATION FROM AB HOMES. THIS OPEN FLOOR PLAN WITH 4 BEDROOMS, 3 1/2 BATHROOMS AND AN OFFICE HAS EVERYTHING YOU COULD WANT, FLEX ROOM, TO A LARGE FAMILY ROOM THAT WOULD BE PERFECT FOR GATHERINGS. DOWNSTAIRS PRIMARY BEDROOM WELCOMES YOU TO YOUR OWN PRIVATE RETREAT. THE SUSSEX MODEL, BUILT BY SUFFOLK & ISLE OF WIGHTS PREMIER RURAL CUSTOM BUILDER BLENDS
Discover space that speaks to your lifestyle at The Westerly at Benn’s Grant. From expansive interiors to over 70 acres of untouched open space, here you’ll find room to relax, grow, and breathe. Nestled in the Benns Church area of Smithfield, our brand new one, two, and three-bedroom apartments boast modern, designer finishes that amplify every detail of sophisticated living.*But life at
This 2021 Fleetwood mobile home has 2 bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms. Enter into the open concept kitchen, living room and dining area, with lots of natural light and a ceiling fan.The 2 bedrooms are located on opposite ends of the home for increased privacy. Each bedroom has its own walk in closet. The master bedroom has an ensuite bathroom, while the second bedroom has a bathroom just steps
Beautiful 3 bedroom end unit townhome with bonus red room on main floor! Nest thermostat & wi-fi enabled garage door opener. The lower level features a 2-car rear-entry garage & first floor bedroom w/ full bath. The main level kitchen features granite countertops, island, and pantry. A composite balcony is off the kitchen. The living room is open to the kitchen with half bath. The upper level has
CONVENIENCE AND VALUE ALL IN THE HEART OF SMITHFIELD – BRADFORD MEWS…THE PERFECT CHOICE! Bradford Mews is just 10 minutes from the James River Bridge and less than 30 minutes to the Southside. You’ll enjoy living in a small town atmosphere, with the convenience of big city life right at your doorstep.
This beautiful 3 bedroom, 3.5 baths will amaze you. Open floor plan, family room, gas fireplace, eat in kitchen with SS appliances, granite countertops, island and tons of space. The master bedroom is beautiful with luxurious full bath, jetted tub/ glass enclosed shower, 2 closets, granite vanity w/under mount sinks. The finished room over the garage could be used as a 4th br or private suite
Rare opportunity to lease a riverfront townhome in the Historic Downtown Smithfield Waterfront District. A standout feature is the private floating dock with two deep-water boat slips, capable of accommodating up to a 70’ yacht, making this an ideal option for boating enthusiasts. This property offers stunning views of the Pagan River and an exceptional waterfront lifestyle.The home
Welcome to this spacious 4-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom home for rent in the sought-after Benns Grant neighborhood of Smithfield, VA. With 2,100 square feet of living space, this home features an open floor plan, perfect for both everyday living and entertaining. The kitchen is a chef’s dream, with modern appliances, quartz countertops, and a large island. Each of the four bedrooms offers plenty of
Spanning over 300 square miles west of the James River in Hampton Roads lies Isle of Wight County, Virginia, a vast semi-rural county with quaint small towns and swaths of farmland. “Isle of Wight County is a great combination of peaceful country living and town amenities,” says Lee Cross, a native of nearby Suffolk, Virginia, and the managing broker and third-generation co-owner of Cross Realty. “You have farmland if you prefer to have some elbow room, but you also have traditional neighborhoods if you like a sense of community.”
The choice of single-family home styles in Isle of Wight is as vast as the county itself, from ornate Victorians with gingerbread trim in Smithfield’s historic downtown to 1960s ranch styles in quiet neighborhoods near Windsor to modern traditional new-builds on acres of sprawling farmland. Home sizes range from around 1,000 to 4,400 square feet, and list prices span from $100,000 to nearly $1 million.
Area kids children attend Isle of Wight County Public Schools, including Westside Elementary, rated a B by Niche, and Smithfield Middle, which earns a B-plus. Next, students move on to B-rated Smithfield High, which offers several academic programs, including dual enrollment with Paul D. Camp Community College. “In my experience, the schools are definitely a draw for people,” Cross says.
With Routes 460 and 258, both significant area roadways, running through the county, folks who commute to other parts of the region for work or play will find Suffolk, Newport News and Norfolk are all within a 30-mile drive of the heart of the county. Since public transit is limited to only about three Hampton Roads Transit bus stops around Smithfield, most county residents depend on a car to get around. “Smithfield Foods is a big employer in the area, so a lot of people have local jobs and don’t have to commute very far,” Cross says. “But for those that work in other areas of Hampton Roads, like Newport News or Norfolk, it’s an easy drive time, especially from the northern part of the county.”
Much of the dining and retail options in the county are located near the towns of Smithfield and Windsor, with Smithfield’s historic downtown taking the top spot for its collection of charming locally-owned restaurants, like Taste of Smithfield with dishes featuring the town’s world-renowned ham. Smithfield’s downtown also boasts an eclectic mix of local specialty shops, while both Smithfield and Windsor feature grocery stores for everyday needs, including Food Lion and Kroger.
County residents have numerous opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, from Smithfield’s vast Windsor Castle Park, with its endless amenities, including walking trails and a natural playscape for children. Folks in the southern part of the county enjoy events at Heritage Park near Windsor, including Fourth of July Fireworks and the Isle of Wight County Fair.
The county fair isn’t the only fun in Isle of Wight County. From Smithfield’s Party with Purposes fundraising festivals, which include a spring Wine & Brew Fest, to Windsor’s annual Christmas Parade featuring area marching bands and decorated snow plows, Isle of Wight County folks know how to have a good time in their communities.
Property Mix - Square Feet
Smithfield Has More Owners
Rental Home Trends
Number of Homes for Rent
7
Median Rent
$2,595
Median Single Family Home Rent
$2,300
Median 4 Bedroom Single Family Home Rent
$2,775
Median Townhouse Rent
$2,510
Median 3 Bedroom Townhouse Rent
$2,363
Median Condo Rent
$1,125
Median 2 Bedroom Condo Rent
$1,125
Demographics
Total Population
9,181
Median Age
44
Population under 18
23.8%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
22.3%
On par with the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$84,134
Above the national average
$79,597
Average Household Income
$104,989
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
90.1%
College Graduates
30.6%
On par with the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
11%
On par with the national average
13.3%
% Population in Labor Force
66.8%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
45''
Average Winter Low Temperature
32°F
Average Summer High Temperature
89°F
Annual Snowfall
10''
Area Factors
Fairly friendly
Bike Score®®
40/ 100
Somewhat friendly
Walk Score®®
20/ 100
Not friendly
Transit Score®®
0/ 100
Source: Local Logic
Sources: Local Logic
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.