Market Overview
Arlington is pricier ($750K median vs $420K), a difference of about $330K. Arlington moves faster, with homes averaging 10 days on market compared to 20 in Frederick. Frederick offers a lower entry point at $200K–$1M.
Arlington
VA
Frederick
MD
Median Price
$750K
$420K
Avg Days on Market
10 days
20 days
Price Range
$350K–$2.5M
$200K–$1M
Top Neighborhoods
Ballston, Clarendon, Crystal City, Pentagon City
Downtown Frederick, Ballenger Creek, Urbana, Spring Ridge
Schools
Arlington leads on school quality with a 89% average pass rate (rated Excellent) compared to 79% in Frederick. Top schools in Arlington include Yorktown High School and Washington-Liberty High School. In Frederick, families look to Urbana High School and Oakdale High School. See Arlington schools | See Frederick schools
Arlington
VA
Frederick
MD
Quality Tier
Excellent
Strong
Avg Pass Rate
89%
79%
Top Schools
Yorktown High School, Washington-Liberty High School, Williamsburg Middle School
Urbana High School, Oakdale High School, Gov. Thomas Johnson High School
Pass Rate
Commute
Arlington is closer to downtown at ~15 minutes vs ~60 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), Frederick (I-70, I-270, Rt 15).
Arlington
VA
Frederick
MD
Drive to Downtown
~15 min
~60 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-70, I-270, Rt 15, Rt 340
Commuter Rail
None
MARC (Brunswick Line)
Walkability
Arlington is more walkable with a Walk Score of 69 (Somewhat Walkable), compared to 42 in Frederick. Transit scores: Arlington (57) vs Frederick (12). Walkability varies significantly by neighborhood. Urban corridors like Ballston and Downtown Frederick score much higher than suburban areas.
Arlington
VA
Frederick
MD
Walk Score
Transit Score
57
12
Bike Score
72
45
Safety
Frederick is rated "Average" with a total crime rate 8% above Virginia average. Arlington is rated "Average" (Near Virginia average). Both cities compare favorably to broader regional trends. Crime rates vary by neighborhood, so check specific areas when house hunting.
Arlington
VA
Frederick
MD
Safety Rating
Violent Crime
1.4/1K
1.5/1K
Property Crime
15.2/1K
16.8/1K
vs Virginia Avg
Near Virginia average
8% above Virginia average
VA
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Arlington or Frederick more affordable?
Frederick is more affordable with a median home price of $420K, 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. Frederick prices range from $200K–$1M.
Which has better schools, Arlington or Frederick?
Arlington has stronger schools overall, with a 89% average pass rate compared to 79% in Frederick. Top schools in Arlington include Yorktown High School and Washington-Liberty High School. In Frederick, standout schools include Urbana High School and Oakdale High School. School quality varies by neighborhood, so check specific school zones when evaluating homes.
Which is easier to commute from, Arlington or Frederick?
Arlington has the shorter commute to downtown at ~15 minutes vs ~60 minutes. Arlington has Metro access (Rosslyn). Frederick has no direct Metro access.
Is Arlington or Frederick better for families?
Both cities are popular with families. Arlington offers urban energy with a neighborhood feel. Frederick is a historic city with a thriving arts scene, walkable downtown, and growing tech presence. 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.