Market Overview
Annapolis is pricier ($510K median vs $300K), a difference of about $210K. Harrisonburg moves faster, with homes averaging 24 days on market compared to 25 in Annapolis. Harrisonburg offers a lower entry point at $150K–$600K.
Annapolis
MD
Harrisonburg
VA
Median Price
$510K
$300K
Avg Days on Market
25 days
24 days
Price Range
$200K–$3M+
$150K–$600K
Top Neighborhoods
Downtown Annapolis, Eastport, West Annapolis, Parole
Downtown, Old Town, Massanetta Springs, Stone Spring
Schools
Annapolis leads on school quality with a 80% average pass rate (rated Strong) compared to 74% in Harrisonburg. Top schools in Annapolis include Annapolis High School and Broadneck High School. In Harrisonburg, families look to Harrisonburg High School and Thomas Harrison Middle School. See Annapolis schools | See Harrisonburg schools
Annapolis
MD
Harrisonburg
VA
Quality Tier
Strong
Strong
Avg Pass Rate
80%
74%
Top Schools
Annapolis High School, Broadneck High School, Annapolis Middle School
Harrisonburg High School, Thomas Harrison Middle School, Skyline Middle School
Pass Rate
Commute
Harrisonburg is closer to downtown at ~10 minutes vs ~45 minutes. Neither city has direct Metro access. Major highway access: Annapolis (Rt 50, Rt 2, I-97), Harrisonburg (I-81, Rt 33, Rt 11).
Annapolis
MD
Harrisonburg
VA
Drive to Downtown
~45 min
~10 min
Metro Stations
No Metro access
No Metro access
Metro Lines
N/A
N/A
Major Highways
Rt 50, Rt 2, I-97
I-81, Rt 33, Rt 11, Rt 42
Commuter Rail
None
None
MD
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Annapolis or Harrisonburg more affordable?
Harrisonburg is more affordable with a median home price of $300K, 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+. Harrisonburg prices range from $150K–$600K.
Which has better schools, Annapolis or Harrisonburg?
Annapolis has stronger schools overall, with a 80% average pass rate compared to 74% in Harrisonburg. Top schools in Annapolis include Annapolis High School and Broadneck High School. In Harrisonburg, standout schools include Harrisonburg High School and Thomas Harrison Middle School. School quality varies by neighborhood, so check specific school zones when evaluating homes.
Which is easier to commute from, Annapolis or Harrisonburg?
Harrisonburg has the shorter commute to downtown at ~10 minutes vs ~45 minutes. Annapolis has no direct Metro access. Harrisonburg has no direct Metro access.
Is Annapolis or Harrisonburg better for families?
Both cities are popular with families. Annapolis is Maryland's capital and the home of the U. Harrisonburg is a vibrant college city in the Shenandoah Valley, home to James Madison University. 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.