Market Overview
Alexandria is pricier ($680K median vs $610K), a difference of about $70K. Alexandria moves faster, with homes averaging 12 days on market compared to 15 in Lorton. Lorton offers a lower entry point at $250K–$1.2M.
Alexandria
VA
Lorton
VA
Median Price
$680K
$610K
Avg Days on Market
12 days
15 days
Price Range
$300K–$2M
$250K–$1.2M
Top Neighborhoods
Old Town, Del Ray, Rosemont, Potomac Yard
Lorton Station, Laurel Hill, Gunston, Newington
Schools
Lorton leads on school quality with a 81% average pass rate (rated Strong) compared to 78% in Alexandria. Top schools in Alexandria include T.C. Williams High School and George Mason Elementary. In Lorton, families look to South County High School and Hayfield Secondary School. See Alexandria schools | See Lorton schools
Alexandria
VA
Lorton
VA
Quality Tier
Strong
Strong
Avg Pass Rate
78%
81%
Top Schools
T.C. Williams High School, George Mason Elementary, Lyles-Crouch Traditional Academy
South County High School, Hayfield Secondary School, Lorton Station Elementary
Pass Rate
Commute
Alexandria is closer to downtown at ~20 minutes vs ~30 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), Lorton (I-95, Rt 1, Lorton Rd).
Alexandria
VA
Lorton
VA
Drive to Downtown
~20 min
~30 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, Lorton Rd
Commuter Rail
VRE (Fredericksburg line)
VRE (Fredericksburg line)
Property Tax
On a $680K home in Alexandria, you would pay ~$7,548/yr in property tax. In Lorton, a $610K home costs ~$6,771/yr. Both cities share the same rate of $1.110 per $100 of assessed value.
Alexandria
VA
Lorton
VA
Rate per $100
$1.110
$1.110
Est. Annual Tax
Based on median home price
$7,548/yr
$6,771/yr
Notes
None
Fairfax County rate
Walkability
Alexandria is more walkable with a Walk Score of 57 (Somewhat Walkable), compared to 18 in Lorton. Transit scores: Alexandria (44) vs Lorton (15). Walkability varies significantly by neighborhood. Urban corridors like Old Town and Lorton Station score much higher than suburban areas.
Alexandria
VA
Lorton
VA
Walk Score
Transit Score
44
15
Bike Score
64
20
Safety
Lorton is rated "Safe" with a total crime rate 33% below Virginia average. Alexandria is rated "Average" (15% above Virginia average). Both cities compare favorably to broader regional trends. Crime rates vary by neighborhood, so check specific areas when house hunting.
Alexandria
VA
Lorton
VA
Safety Rating
Violent Crime
1.7/1K
0.8/1K
Property Crime
17.8/1K
10.5/1K
vs Virginia Avg
15% above Virginia average
33% below Virginia average
VA
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Alexandria or Lorton more affordable?
Lorton is more affordable with a median home price of $610K, 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. Lorton prices range from $250K–$1.2M.
Which has better schools, Alexandria or Lorton?
Lorton has stronger schools overall, with a 81% average pass rate compared to 78% in Alexandria. Top schools in Alexandria include T.C. Williams High School and George Mason Elementary. In Lorton, standout schools include South County High School and Hayfield Secondary School. School quality varies by neighborhood, so check specific school zones when evaluating homes.
Which is easier to commute from, Alexandria or Lorton?
Alexandria has the shorter commute to downtown at ~20 minutes vs ~30 minutes. Alexandria has Metro access (King St-Old Town). Lorton has no direct Metro access.
What are property taxes in Alexandria vs Lorton?
Alexandria has a property tax rate of $1.110 per $100 (~$7,548/yr on a $680K home). Lorton's rate is $1.110 per $100 (~$6,771/yr on a $610K home). Tax rates are set annually by each locality.
Is Alexandria or Lorton better for families?
Both cities are popular with families. Historic Old Town charm meets modern living in Alexandria. Lorton is a revitalized community in southern Fairfax County, transformed by the Workhouse Arts Center and new residential development. 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.