Mathews County, VA Real Estate Guide 2026

Your Local Expert: Larry McKinney | Hogge Real Estate Inc. | 757-503-2544 | thegloucesterrealtor.com

 

What Is Mathews County, VA?

 

Mathews County, Virginia is one of the most scenic and sought-after waterfront markets on the entire East Coast. Located on Virginia's Middle Peninsula, Mathews is surrounded on three sides by water — the Mobjack Bay, the Chesapeake Bay, and the Piankatank River — making it a premier destination for boaters, watermen, and buyers seeking a true waterfront lifestyle.

 

Mathews County is small, rural, and fiercely independent. With a population of approximately 9,000, it offers the kind of quiet, nature-centered lifestyle that is increasingly rare and valuable. There are no traffic lights in Mathews County. There is, however, extraordinary access to some of Virginia's most beautiful waterways.

 

Mathews County Real Estate Market — 2026

 

Mathews County is one of Eastern Virginia's most undervalued waterfront markets. As of 2026, homes in Mathews County range from $200,000 for inland properties to $1,000,000 or more for premier waterfront estates on the Mobjack Bay or Chesapeake Bay.

 

Waterfront land in Mathews County represents exceptional long-term value. Parcels with direct Chesapeake Bay or Mobjack Bay access are increasingly rare and are appreciating steadily. Rural and wooded parcels remain very affordable, often available between $50,000 and $150,000 for 5 to 20 acres.

 

The Mathews market moves more slowly than Gloucester County — which is actually an advantage for buyers who need time to evaluate waterfront properties carefully.

 

Waterfront Living in Mathews County

 

Mathews County is bordered by some of Virginia's most spectacular waterways. The Mobjack Bay, a protected inlet of the Chesapeake Bay, offers calm waters perfect for sailing, kayaking, and crabbing. The Piankatank River forms the northern border with Middlesex County and is one of the premier recreational waterways in Virginia. The East River, North River, and Severn River wind through the county offering additional waterfront opportunities.

 

Buyers purchasing waterfront property in Mathews County need expert guidance on flood zone classifications, riparian rights, dock permitting through the Virginia Marine Resources Commission, and structural evaluation of piers and bulkheads. Larry McKinney's construction background makes him uniquely qualified to guide waterfront buyers through this process.

 

Communities in Mathews County

 

Mathews Courthouse is the county seat, featuring the historic courthouse, local shops, and the Mathews Market Days festival. Hudgins, Bavon, and Moon offer waterfront communities along the Chesapeake Bay and Mobjack Bay. Susan and Gwynn's Island are popular with second-home buyers and retirees seeking true waterfront seclusion. Port Haywood offers working waterfront character and access to the East River.

 

Why Mathews County Buyers Choose Larry McKinney

 

Larry McKinney serves Mathews County buyers and sellers as part of his Eastern Virginia practice with Hogge Real Estate Inc. He has deep knowledge of Mathews County waterfront properties, land values, and the specific due diligence required for rural and waterfront purchases in this unique market.

 

Larry McKinney | Hogge Real Estate Inc.

6800 Main St., Gloucester, VA 23061

Phone: 757-503-2544

Website: thegloucesterrealtor.com

Also Serving Virginia's Middle Peninsula and Eastern Virginia:

Gloucester VA Real Estate Guide

Gloucester Point VA Real Estate Guide

Hayes VA Real Estate Guide

Middlesex County VA Real Estate Guide

Williamsburg VA Real Estate Guide

York County VA Real Estate Guide

King & Queen County VA Real Estate Guide

 

Frequently Asked Questions — Mathews County VA Real Estate

 

What is the average home price in Mathews County, VA in 2026?

Homes in Mathews County range from approximately $200,000 for inland properties to $1,000,000 or more for premier waterfront estates. Rural land parcels are available from $50,000 to $200,000 for 5 to 20 acres. Contact Larry McKinney for current market data.

 

Is Mathews County VA good for waterfront property?

Yes. Mathews County is one of Virginia's premier waterfront markets, offering access to the Mobjack Bay, Chesapeake Bay, Piankatank River, and multiple tidal rivers. It is consistently undervalued compared to similar Bay-access markets in Maryland and North Carolina.

 

How far is Mathews County from Williamsburg and Hampton Roads?

Mathews County is approximately 35 to 45 minutes from Gloucester Courthouse, 50 to 60 minutes from Williamsburg, and 60 to 75 minutes from Hampton Roads depending on destination.

 

Does Larry McKinney help with waterfront purchases in Mathews County?

Yes. Larry specializes in waterfront property throughout Mathews County and Eastern Virginia, including evaluation of flood zones, dock permitting, riparian rights, and bulkhead condition.

 

Last updated: May 2026 | Larry McKinney, Hogge Real Estate Inc. | 757-503-2544