2026 Compare Cities Overview:
Portsmouth, NH vs Bristol, VA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Bristol older or younger than people in Portsmouth?
- The Median Age in Bristol is 1.2 years older than in Portsmouth.

Are housing costs cheaper in Bristol or Portsmouth?
- Bristol housing costs are 74.4% less expensive than Portsmouth housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Bristol or Portsmouth?
- The average commute for residents of Bristol is 0.2 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Portsmouth.

Things to do in Portsmouth?
Portsmouth NH situated seacoast New Hampshire just east Massachusetts border close Rye along mouth Piscataqua River Great Bay estuary adjacent interstate 95 providing alternate route up Maine beyond Laconia through heart Lakes Region connected multiple bridges port city type designation recognized due profuse maritime transportation centers focused servicing travel intercity prepared provision various watercraft increased mid 19th century presently renowned downtown art galleries colonial houses quaint shops eateries overlooking picturesque coastline harbor shorelines combining blend cultural attractions historic sites quirky traditions locals tourists alike summertime celebration annual Seafood Festival held July round year boasting world famous Strawbery Bank museum consistently ranked number one national rankings make Portsmouth distinctive place visit explore all times year round .

Things to do in Bristol?
Bristol, Virginia is a charming city that is situated in the Appalachian Mountains. Home to more than 18,000 people, Bristol offers its residents plenty of activities and attractions. With numerous outdoor parks and a vibrant downtown area, it's no wonder that the city was named The Birthplace of Country Music. Bristol also features a variety of festivals such as the Border Bash music festival and Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion. Additionally, the city is home to some historic sites like Steele Creek Park and the Bristol Train Station. With its rich culture and abundance of recreational activities available, Bristol is an amazing place to live.

 Portsmouth, NHBristol, VAUnited States
 Population  Unlock16,996329,725,481
 Median Income$91,915  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock43.438.4
 Avg. Home Price$644,300  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock6.0%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time21.24  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Portsmouth    7 Reviews

Over 16 years ago

I was up in Portsmouth a couple years ago visiting from Florida. I loved how I was able to prk the car, get out and have numerous bars/restaurants, clothing stores, etc  More

   |    Reply

Over 17 years ago

Portsmouth is full of history, art, interesting shops, restaurants and the best  More

   |    Reply

Over 19 years ago

Portsmouth is a beautiful historic town settled right on the seacoast. Excellent restaurants, great cafes and shops, and picturesque streets make this a wonderful city  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Portsmouth

Reviews for Bristol    7 Reviews

Eat and live on the TN side, shop on the VA side.  More

   |    Reply

Over 8 years ago

I’ve lived here my whole life and the crime/drug rate keeps going up. This area is starting to go downhill. Not to mention the property taxes are  More

   |    Reply

Lived here my whole life basically and this place is going downhill. It’s a drug area. Mostly people on meth and pills. I feel like the crime rate just keeps going up.  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Bristol


Premium Subscription
Includes Cost of Living compares for child care, utilities, transportation, health, taxes, housing for home owners vs renters, weather, insurance premiums and so much more.


The premier source for comprehensive city data for over 30 years.

© Best Places. All rights reserved.