Market Overview
Alexandria is pricier ($680K median vs $450K), a difference of about $230K. Alexandria moves faster, with homes averaging 12 days on market compared to 20 in Dumfries. Dumfries offers a lower entry point at $200K–$750K.
Alexandria
VA
Dumfries
VA
Median Price
$680K
$450K
Avg Days on Market
12 days
20 days
Price Range
$300K–$2M
$200K–$750K
Top Neighborhoods
Old Town, Del Ray, Rosemont, Potomac Yard
Montclair, Potomac Club, Triangle, Cherry Hill
Schools
Alexandria leads on school quality with a 78% average pass rate (rated Strong) compared to 71% in Dumfries. Top schools in Alexandria include T.C. Williams High School and George Mason Elementary. In Dumfries, families look to Forest Park High School and Graham Park Middle School. See Alexandria schools | See Dumfries schools
Alexandria
VA
Dumfries
VA
Quality Tier
Strong
Strong
Avg Pass Rate
78%
71%
Top Schools
T.C. Williams High School, George Mason Elementary, Lyles-Crouch Traditional Academy
Forest Park High School, Graham Park Middle School, Leesylvania Elementary
Pass Rate
Commute
Alexandria is closer to downtown at ~20 minutes vs ~45 minutes. Alexandria has 4 Metro stations, including King St-Old Town on the Blue/Yellow lines. Major highway access: Alexandria (I-395, I-495, GW Parkway), Dumfries (I-95, Rt 1, Rt 234).
Alexandria
VA
Dumfries
VA
Drive to Downtown
~20 min
~45 min
Metro Stations
4 Metro stations (nearest: King St-Old Town)
No Metro access
Metro Lines
Blue, Yellow
N/A
Major Highways
I-395, I-495, GW Parkway
I-95, Rt 1, Rt 234
Commuter Rail
VRE (Fredericksburg line)
VRE (Fredericksburg line)
VA
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Alexandria or Dumfries more affordable?
Dumfries is more affordable with a median home price of $450K, compared to $680K in Alexandria. Both cities offer a wide range of housing options, from condos and townhomes to single-family homes. Alexandria prices range from $300K–$2M. Dumfries prices range from $200K–$750K.
Which has better schools, Alexandria or Dumfries?
Alexandria has stronger schools overall, with a 78% average pass rate compared to 71% in Dumfries. Top schools in Alexandria include T.C. Williams High School and George Mason Elementary. In Dumfries, standout schools include Forest Park High School and Graham Park Middle School. School quality varies by neighborhood, so check specific school zones when evaluating homes.
Which is easier to commute from, Alexandria or Dumfries?
Alexandria has the shorter commute to downtown at ~20 minutes vs ~45 minutes. Alexandria has Metro access (King St-Old Town). Dumfries has no direct Metro access.
Is Alexandria or Dumfries better for families?
Both cities are popular with families. Historic Old Town charm meets modern living in Alexandria. Dumfries is a historic town in Prince William County offering affordable homes near Quantico Marine Corps Base. The best choice depends on your priorities: budget, school quality, commute length, and neighborhood feel. smover can help you find a verified agent in either city who specializes in family-friendly neighborhoods.
Market data verified by smover using real transaction records. School data from Virginia DOE, Maryland MSDE, and DC OSSE public reports. Property tax rates from Virginia Dept. of Taxation (2024). Walkability scores from Walk Score (2024). Crime data from FBI UCR and Virginia State Police (2023). Commute times are approximate rush-hour estimates. Updated March 2026.