OP :
Overall, Hampton Roads has nothing on Portland... However, many of the comments here are based on Hampton Roads as a whole.
It is important to know that EVMS is nestled in the heart of
Ghent. A very small, but very vibrant, area with tons of local businesses, 20-30 independently owned bars/restaurants and a growing but promising bike culture... all within a 5 mile area. Honestly, if you are at EVMS and living in Ghent... not even a bicycle is necessary to live.
At the same time, very much like I imagine Portland (or any urban area) to be, Norfolk is very transient. Crime rates vary from one neighborhood to the other. Ghent/Downtown areas have relatively low crime rate (and almost non-existent violent crime rate) while other areas of Norfolk/Portsmouth/Newport News make national news for their violent crime.
Long story short. Live and work in Ghent, you will find yourself among a large population of SF, Seattle, NYC and LA transplants in a beautiful and creative area. Other than for Wal-Mart or the occasional romp at the beach, you will never need to leave Ghent.
Bring your bike and enjoy it with the many other Ghentonians out riding... but do plan on traveling 15-20 miles out of the city to get any long, traffic-less rides.
Also,
AltDaily is a local (Ghent/DT) web publication that supports and covers the local bike culture regularly. Take a read or say 'whats up' on Facebook. These guys will definitely have more info.