Hickory

Chesapeake, VA

Neighborhood Market Analysis

Q3 2025 Report
$416,000 (Chesapeake citywide, Hickory typically ranges $400,000–$650,000 depending on subdivision and lot size)
Median Home Price
Low to moderate (most errands require a car, but some subdivisions have sidewalks and trails)
Walkability Score
Consistently A or 9/10+ (GreatSchools); Hickory High is especially well-regarded.
School Rating

Location Overview

Neighborhood Boundaries

Southern Chesapeake, generally south of the Great Bridge area, east of Route 17, west of the North Carolina border, and north of the Virginia/North Carolina state line. Includes sub-neighborhoods like Hickory Plantation, Hickory Ridge, Oakbrooke Meadows, Cedarwood, Bryan’s Cove, Sanderson Estates, and Culpepper Landing.

Zip Codes

23322

Market Data Summary

Price Range$350,000–$900,000+ (larger custom homes and estates at the upper end)
Price per Sq Ft$224 (citywide median, Hickory often slightly higher for newer/larger homes)
Inventory LevelsModerate; homes sell quickly (69% within 30 days), but days on market have increased slightly to 28 days (June 2025).

Property Characteristics

Home Types & Architecture

Home Types

Single-family detachedTownhomesCondos (in select developments)

Architectural Styles

Traditional ColonialCraftsmanModern farmhouseBrick ranchCustom contemporary

Property Details

Typical Lot Sizes0.25 to 1+ acre (larger lots common in estate sections)
Home Age RangeNew construction to 30+ years (most homes built 1990s–present)
Construction QualityAbove average; many homes are custom or semi-custom with high-end finishes.

Community Profile

Demographics & Lifestyle

Demographics

Predominantly families, professionals, and military; diverse age range with a strong presence of school-aged children.

Community Vibe

Suburban-rural blend; peaceful, scenic, and community-oriented with a semi-upscale feel.

Typical Residents

  • Families
  • Professionals
  • Military personnel
  • Retirees

Family Friendly

Excellent; highly rated schools, parks, and safe streets attract families.

Amenities & Lifestyle

Parks & Recreation

  • Hickory Ridge Park
  • Dismal Swamp Canal Trail
  • Nearby golf courses
  • Community playgrounds

Dining Options

  • Family restaurants
  • Local diners
  • Fast casual chains

Shopping Centers

  • Hickory Shoppes
  • Great Bridge Shopping Center
  • Greenbrier Mall (15 min drive)

Local Businesses

  • Farmers markets
  • Local cafes
  • Boutique shops
  • Equestrian centers

Education & Schools

Consistently A or 9/10+ (GreatSchools); Hickory High is especially well-regarded.
Overall School Rating

Elementary Schools

  • Hickory Elementary

Middle Schools

  • Hickory Middle

High Schools

  • Hickory High

Private Schools

  • StoneBridge School
  • Chesapeake Montessori

Transportation & Accessibility

Transit & Roads

Public Transit

  • Limited; primarily school buses and regional shuttles

Major Roads

  • Route 17
  • Route 168 (Chesapeake Expressway)
  • Mount Pleasant Road

Commute & Walkability

Commute Times20–30 minutes to downtown Chesapeake or Virginia Beach; 35–45 minutes to Norfolk Naval Base.
WalkabilityLow (car-dependent, but some neighborhoods have internal trails/sidewalks)
ParkingExcellent; most homes have garages and large driveways.

Marketing Intelligence

Target Buyer Types

  • Families with children
  • Military transferees
  • Move-up buyers from urban/suburban areas
  • Remote workers seeking space

Key Selling Points

  • Top-rated schools
  • Large lots and newer homes
  • Safe, peaceful environment
  • Easy access to Virginia Beach and Chesapeake Expressway

Pricing Considerations

Price competitively within subdivision; expect some negotiation below list price as of mid-2025.

Common Objections & Response Strategies

Objection: Higher home prices than other Chesapeake neighborhoods

Response Strategy:

Emphasize superior schools, lot sizes, and long-term appreciation potential.

Objection: Car-dependent, low walkability

Response Strategy:

Highlight peaceful setting, ample parking, and proximity to major roads for easy commuting.

Objection: Limited nightlife and entertainment

Response Strategy:

Focus on family-oriented lifestyle, outdoor recreation, and quick access to city amenities.

Investment Insights

Investment Potential

Appreciation Potential

Strong; steady 3%+ annual appreciation, with upside from continued demand for top schools and larger lots.

Rental Demand

Moderate; mostly owner-occupied, but some demand from military and relocating professionals.

Buyer Competition

Moderate; homes sell quickly but recent trend shows buyers gaining some leverage (all recent sales under asking).

Best For

  • Families seeking top schools
  • Move-up buyers
  • Military relocations
  • Investors seeking stable appreciation

Potential Concerns

  • Higher price point than some Chesapeake neighborhoods
  • Car-dependent lifestyle
  • Limited nightlife/urban amenities

Professional Recommendations

1

Emphasize school ratings and family amenities in all marketing.

2

Prepare for negotiation below list price; set realistic seller expectations.

3

Stage homes to highlight flexible spaces and outdoor living.

4

Educate buyers on floodplain risks and mitigation where relevant.

5

Network with military relocation specialists and corporate HR departments.

6

Leverage virtual tours and remote showings for out-of-area buyers.

Competitive Analysis

Comparable Markets

  • Great Bridge
  • Grassfield
  • Greenbrier

Market Positioning

Premium family-oriented suburb with rural charm and strong schools.

Competitive Advantages

  • Top schools
  • Larger lots
  • Newer homes
  • Lower crime

Price Comparison

Priced above city median but below luxury enclaves like Ashville Park ($1M+).

Investment Metrics

3.5%–4.5% (moderate, reflecting stable owner-occupancy)
Cap Rates
4%–5% gross (limited by high home values and moderate rents)
Rental Yields
High (favoring owner-occupants over investors)
Price-to-Rent
Limited for traditional rentals; better for executive or short-term rentals.
Cash Flow
3%–5% annually, driven by school demand and limited new supply.
Appreciation

Buyer Journey Insights

First-Time Buyers

May be priced out unless purchasing a townhome/condo; benefit from strong schools and safe environment.

Move-Up Buyers

Ideal for those seeking more space, better schools, and newer homes.

Downsizers

Limited options unless seeking a townhome; most homes are large single-family.

Investors

Best for long-term appreciation; limited cash flow but stable tenant pool (military/professionals).

Relocators

Strong appeal for military and corporate relocations due to schools and access to major roads.

This neighborhood analysis was generated using hyperlocal data and AI intelligence.

Neighborhood conditions change - consult with local real estate professionals for the most current information.

Related Market Intelligence

Explore connected markets and opportunities