City Comparison

Annandale vs Arlington: Which is right for your family?

Annandale is one of Northern Virginia's most diverse communities, celebrated for its international dining scene. Arlington offers urban energy with a neighborhood feel. Both are strong options, but the details matter. Here is how they compare across price, schools, commute, taxes, walkability, and safety.

Market Overview

Annandale is pricier ($785K median vs $750K), a difference of about $35K. Arlington moves faster, with homes averaging 10 days on market compared to 19 in Annandale. Arlington offers a lower entry point at $350K–$2.5M.

Annandale

VA

Arlington

VA

Median Price

$785K

$750K

Avg Days on Market

19 days

10 days

Price Range

$174K–$2.2M

$350K–$2.5M

Top Neighborhoods

Ravensworth, Heritage Hill, Wakefield Chapel Estates, Camelot

Ballston, Clarendon, Crystal City, Pentagon City

VA

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VA

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Annandale or Arlington more affordable?

Arlington is more affordable with a median home price of $750K, compared to $785K in Annandale. Both cities offer a wide range of housing options, from condos and townhomes to single-family homes. Annandale prices range from $174K–$2.2M. Arlington prices range from $350K–$2.5M.

Is Annandale or Arlington better for families?

Both cities are popular with families. Annandale is one of Northern Virginia's most diverse communities, celebrated for its international dining scene. Arlington offers urban energy with a neighborhood feel. 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.