Techniques and solutions are described for implementing virtual table schemas. A virtual table schema includes a logical pointer that is used to target a table that includes data and is defined according to the virtual table schema. Values assigned to the logical pointer can be used to target tables at different locations, such as in-memory storage or in dynamic storage of a database management system. The dynamic storage includes an in-memory buffer cache and persistent storage. The logical pointer can be updated to point to the in-memory storage or the dynamic storage, including based on use statistics. Similarly, a table having data for the virtual table can be transitioned between the in-memory buffer cache and the persistent storage, including based on use statistics for the virtual table. A value for the logical pointer can be updated when the table is transferred between the in-memory buffer cache and the dynamic storage.