Market Overview
Arlington is pricier ($750K median vs $255K), a difference of about $495K. Arlington moves faster, with homes averaging 10 days on market compared to 25 in Hampton. Hampton offers a lower entry point at $80K–$650K.
Arlington
VA
Hampton
VA
Median Price
$750K
$255K
Avg Days on Market
10 days
25 days
Price Range
$350K–$2.5M
$80K–$650K
Top Neighborhoods
Ballston, Clarendon, Crystal City, Pentagon City
Phoebus, Buckroe Beach, Fox Hill, Wythe
Schools
Arlington leads on school quality with a 89% average pass rate (rated Excellent) compared to 65% in Hampton. Top schools in Arlington include Yorktown High School and Washington-Liberty High School. In Hampton, families look to Hampton High School and Phoebus High School. See Arlington schools | See Hampton schools
Arlington
VA
Hampton
VA
Quality Tier
Excellent
Average
Avg Pass Rate
89%
65%
Top Schools
Yorktown High School, Washington-Liberty High School, Williamsburg Middle School
Hampton High School, Phoebus High School, Bethel High School
Pass Rate
Commute
Arlington is closer to downtown at ~15 minutes vs ~25 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), Hampton (I-64, I-664, Rt 258).
Arlington
VA
Hampton
VA
Drive to Downtown
~15 min
~25 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-64, I-664, Rt 258
Commuter Rail
None
None
Safety
Arlington is rated "Average" with a total crime rate Near Virginia average. Hampton is rated "Below Average" (42% above Virginia average). Both cities compare favorably to broader regional trends. Crime rates vary by neighborhood, so check specific areas when house hunting.
Arlington
VA
Hampton
VA
Safety Rating
Violent Crime
1.4/1K
3.8/1K
Property Crime
15.2/1K
20.2/1K
vs Virginia Avg
Near Virginia average
42% above Virginia average
VA
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Arlington or Hampton more affordable?
Hampton is more affordable with a median home price of $255K, 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. Hampton prices range from $80K–$650K.
Which has better schools, Arlington or Hampton?
Arlington has stronger schools overall, with a 89% average pass rate compared to 65% in Hampton. Top schools in Arlington include Yorktown High School and Washington-Liberty High School. In Hampton, standout schools include Hampton High School and Phoebus High School. School quality varies by neighborhood, so check specific school zones when evaluating homes.
Which is easier to commute from, Arlington or Hampton?
Arlington has the shorter commute to downtown at ~15 minutes vs ~25 minutes. Arlington has Metro access (Rosslyn). Hampton has no direct Metro access.
Is Arlington or Hampton better for families?
Both cities are popular with families. Arlington offers urban energy with a neighborhood feel. Hampton is a historic waterfront city on the Chesapeake Bay, home to Langley Air Force Base, NASA Langley Research Center, and Hampton 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.