Newport News stands as one of America's oldest English place names and serves as a hub for shipbuilding and maritime activities on the Virginia Peninsula. Home to Newport News Shipbuilding, the city stretches across 70 square miles from the James River to the Hampton Roads harbor. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $1,213, making it more affordable than many comparable coastal cities.

Renters appreciate the distinct neighborhoods throughout Newport News. Hilton Village, developed during World War I as a planned community, features historic homes and tree-lined streets with local shops. Port Warwick and City Center at Oyster Point offer modern rental options in walkable areas with public squares where seasonal festivals and farmers markets take place. The North End Historic District showcases architectural diversity with scenic views of the James River, while Kiln Creek provides townhomes and apartment communities near golf courses and walking trails.

The city provides robust transportation options with Interstate 64 connecting to neighboring Hampton Roads cities and the Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport offering convenient travel access. Major employers include Newport News Shipbuilding with over 24,000 employees, Fort Eustis military base, and Ferguson Enterprises. Newport News Park, spanning 7,711 acres, offers hiking trails, bike paths, archery ranges, and two championship golf courses. Cultural attractions include the Mariners' Museum with its extensive maritime collections, the Virginia Living Museum's native wildlife exhibits, and the Ferguson Center for the Arts, which presents Broadway shows and symphony performances throughout the year.