Market Overview
Arlington is pricier ($750K median vs $350K), a difference of about $400K. Arlington moves faster, with homes averaging 10 days on market compared to 17 in Chesterfield. Chesterfield offers a lower entry point at $150K–$900K.
Arlington
VA
Chesterfield
VA
Median Price
$750K
$350K
Avg Days on Market
10 days
17 days
Price Range
$350K–$2.5M
$150K–$900K
Top Neighborhoods
Ballston, Clarendon, Crystal City, Pentagon City
Midlothian, Brandermill, Woodlake, Moseley
Schools
Arlington leads on school quality with a 89% average pass rate (rated Excellent) compared to 79% in Chesterfield. Top schools in Arlington include Yorktown High School and Washington-Liberty High School. In Chesterfield, families look to Cosby High School and Clover Hill High School. See Arlington schools | See Chesterfield schools
Arlington
VA
Chesterfield
VA
Quality Tier
Excellent
Strong
Avg Pass Rate
89%
79%
Top Schools
Yorktown High School, Washington-Liberty High School, Williamsburg Middle School
Cosby High School, Clover Hill High School, Midlothian High School
Pass Rate
Commute
Arlington is closer to downtown at ~15 minutes vs ~20 minutes. Arlington has 6 Metro stations, including Rosslyn on the Orange/Silver/Blue/Yellow lines. Major highway access: Arlington (I-66, I-395, Rt 50), Chesterfield (I-95, I-295, Rt 1).
Arlington
VA
Chesterfield
VA
Drive to Downtown
~15 min
~20 min
Metro Stations
6 Metro stations (nearest: Rosslyn)
No Metro access
Metro Lines
Orange, Silver, Blue, Yellow
N/A
Major Highways
I-66, I-395, Rt 50
I-95, I-295, Rt 1, Rt 10, Rt 360
Commuter Rail
None
None
VA
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Arlington or Chesterfield more affordable?
Chesterfield is more affordable with a median home price of $350K, compared to $750K in Arlington. Both cities offer a wide range of housing options, from condos and townhomes to single-family homes. Arlington prices range from $350K–$2.5M. Chesterfield prices range from $150K–$900K.
Which has better schools, Arlington or Chesterfield?
Arlington has stronger schools overall, with a 89% average pass rate compared to 79% in Chesterfield. Top schools in Arlington include Yorktown High School and Washington-Liberty High School. In Chesterfield, standout schools include Cosby High School and Clover Hill High School. School quality varies by neighborhood, so check specific school zones when evaluating homes.
Which is easier to commute from, Arlington or Chesterfield?
Arlington has the shorter commute to downtown at ~15 minutes vs ~20 minutes. Arlington has Metro access (Rosslyn). Chesterfield has no direct Metro access.
Is Arlington or Chesterfield better for families?
Both cities are popular with families. Arlington offers urban energy with a neighborhood feel. Chesterfield County is one of the fastest-growing counties in the Richmond metro, offering new construction, strong schools, and affordable homes south of the James River. 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.