Market Overview
Annapolis is pricier ($510K median vs $450K), a difference of about $60K. Dumfries moves faster, with homes averaging 20 days on market compared to 25 in Annapolis. Dumfries offers a lower entry point at $200K–$750K.
Annapolis
MD
Dumfries
VA
Median Price
$510K
$450K
Avg Days on Market
25 days
20 days
Price Range
$200K–$3M+
$200K–$750K
Top Neighborhoods
Downtown Annapolis, Eastport, West Annapolis, Parole
Montclair, Potomac Club, Triangle, Cherry Hill
Schools
Annapolis leads on school quality with a 80% average pass rate (rated Strong) compared to 71% in Dumfries. Top schools in Annapolis include Annapolis High School and Broadneck High School. In Dumfries, families look to Forest Park High School and Graham Park Middle School. See Annapolis schools | See Dumfries schools
Annapolis
MD
Dumfries
VA
Quality Tier
Strong
Strong
Avg Pass Rate
80%
71%
Top Schools
Annapolis High School, Broadneck High School, Annapolis Middle School
Forest Park High School, Graham Park Middle School, Leesylvania Elementary
Pass Rate
Commute
Dumfries is closer to downtown at ~45 minutes vs ~45 minutes. Neither city has direct Metro access. Major highway access: Annapolis (Rt 50, Rt 2, I-97), Dumfries (I-95, Rt 1, Rt 234).
Annapolis
MD
Dumfries
VA
Drive to Downtown
~45 min
~45 min
Metro Stations
No Metro access
No Metro access
Metro Lines
N/A
N/A
Major Highways
Rt 50, Rt 2, I-97
I-95, Rt 1, Rt 234
Commuter Rail
None
VRE (Fredericksburg line)
MD
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Annapolis or Dumfries more affordable?
Dumfries is more affordable with a median home price of $450K, compared to $510K in Annapolis. Both cities offer a wide range of housing options, from condos and townhomes to single-family homes. Annapolis prices range from $200K–$3M+. Dumfries prices range from $200K–$750K.
Which has better schools, Annapolis or Dumfries?
Annapolis has stronger schools overall, with a 80% average pass rate compared to 71% in Dumfries. Top schools in Annapolis include Annapolis High School and Broadneck High School. 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, Annapolis or Dumfries?
Dumfries has the shorter commute to downtown at ~45 minutes vs ~45 minutes. Annapolis has no direct Metro access. Dumfries has no direct Metro access.
Is Annapolis or Dumfries better for families?
Both cities are popular with families. Annapolis is Maryland's capital and the home of the U. 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.