City Comparison

Alexandria vs Warrenton: Which is right for your family?

Historic Old Town charm meets modern living in Alexandria. Warrenton is the county seat of Fauquier County, known for its equestrian culture, charming Old Town, and rolling countryside. Both are strong options, but the details matter. Here is how they compare across price, schools, commute, taxes, walkability, and safety.

Market Overview

Alexandria is pricier ($680K median vs $500K), a difference of about $180K. Alexandria moves faster, with homes averaging 12 days on market compared to 28 in Warrenton. Warrenton offers a lower entry point at $225K–$2M.

Alexandria

VA

Warrenton

VA

Median Price

$680K

$500K

Avg Days on Market

12 days

28 days

Price Range

$300K–$2M

$225K–$2M

Top Neighborhoods

Old Town, Del Ray, Rosemont, Potomac Yard

Old Town Warrenton, Blackwell, Vint Hill, Rittenour

Schools

Warrenton leads on school quality with a 78% 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 Warrenton, families look to Fauquier High School and Taylor Middle School. See Alexandria schools | See Warrenton schools

Alexandria

VA

Warrenton

VA

Quality Tier

Strong

Strong

Avg Pass Rate

78%

78%

Top Schools

T.C. Williams High School, George Mason Elementary, Lyles-Crouch Traditional Academy

Fauquier High School, Taylor Middle School, Brumfield Elementary

Pass Rate

78%
78%

Commute

Alexandria is closer to downtown at ~20 minutes vs ~60 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), Warrenton (Rt 29, Rt 17, Rt 211).

Alexandria

VA

Warrenton

VA

Drive to Downtown

~20 min

~60 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

Rt 29, Rt 17, Rt 211, Rt 15/29

Commuter Rail

VRE (Fredericksburg line)

None

Walkability

Alexandria is more walkable with a Walk Score of 57 (Somewhat Walkable), compared to 32 in Warrenton. Walkability varies significantly by neighborhood. Urban corridors like Old Town and Old Town Warrenton score much higher than suburban areas.

Alexandria

VA

Warrenton

VA

Walk Score

57Somewhat Walkable
32Car-Dependent

Bike Score

64

28

VA

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Alexandria or Warrenton more affordable?

Warrenton is more affordable with a median home price of $500K, 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. Warrenton prices range from $225K–$2M.

Which has better schools, Alexandria or Warrenton?

Warrenton has stronger schools overall, with a 78% average pass rate compared to 78% in Alexandria. Top schools in Alexandria include T.C. Williams High School and George Mason Elementary. In Warrenton, standout schools include Fauquier High School and Taylor Middle School. School quality varies by neighborhood, so check specific school zones when evaluating homes.

Which is easier to commute from, Alexandria or Warrenton?

Alexandria has the shorter commute to downtown at ~20 minutes vs ~60 minutes. Alexandria has Metro access (King St-Old Town). Warrenton has no direct Metro access.

Is Alexandria or Warrenton better for families?

Both cities are popular with families. Historic Old Town charm meets modern living in Alexandria. Warrenton is the county seat of Fauquier County, known for its equestrian culture, charming Old Town, and rolling countryside. 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.