Market Overview
Arlington is pricier ($750K median vs $280K), a difference of about $470K. Arlington moves faster, with homes averaging 10 days on market compared to 24 in Norfolk. Norfolk offers a lower entry point at $100K–$1M.
Arlington
VA
Norfolk
VA
Median Price
$750K
$280K
Avg Days on Market
10 days
24 days
Price Range
$350K–$2.5M
$100K–$1M
Top Neighborhoods
Ballston, Clarendon, Crystal City, Pentagon City
Ghent, Downtown Norfolk, West Ghent, Colonial Place
Schools
Arlington leads on school quality with a 89% average pass rate (rated Excellent) compared to 65% in Norfolk. Top schools in Arlington include Yorktown High School and Washington-Liberty High School. In Norfolk, families look to Maury High School and Granby High School. See Arlington schools | See Norfolk schools
Arlington
VA
Norfolk
VA
Quality Tier
Excellent
Average
Avg Pass Rate
89%
65%
Top Schools
Yorktown High School, Washington-Liberty High School, Williamsburg Middle School
Maury High School, Granby High School, Norfolk Academy (private)
Pass Rate
Commute
Norfolk is closer to downtown at ~10 minutes vs ~15 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), Norfolk (I-264, I-64, I-564).
Arlington
VA
Norfolk
VA
Drive to Downtown
~15 min
~10 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-264, I-64, I-564, Rt 13
Commuter Rail
None
None
Walkability
Arlington is more walkable with a Walk Score of 69 (Somewhat Walkable), compared to 42 in Norfolk. Transit scores: Arlington (57) vs Norfolk (22). Walkability varies significantly by neighborhood. Urban corridors like Ballston and Ghent score much higher than suburban areas.
Arlington
VA
Norfolk
VA
Walk Score
Transit Score
57
22
Bike Score
72
48
Safety
Arlington is rated "Average" with a total crime rate Near Virginia average. Norfolk is rated "Below Average" (72% 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
Norfolk
VA
Safety Rating
Violent Crime
1.4/1K
4.2/1K
Property Crime
15.2/1K
24.8/1K
vs Virginia Avg
Near Virginia average
72% above Virginia average
VA
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Arlington or Norfolk more affordable?
Norfolk is more affordable with a median home price of $280K, 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. Norfolk prices range from $100K–$1M.
Which has better schools, Arlington or Norfolk?
Arlington has stronger schools overall, with a 89% average pass rate compared to 65% in Norfolk. Top schools in Arlington include Yorktown High School and Washington-Liberty High School. In Norfolk, standout schools include Maury High School and Granby High School. School quality varies by neighborhood, so check specific school zones when evaluating homes.
Which is easier to commute from, Arlington or Norfolk?
Norfolk has the shorter commute to downtown at ~10 minutes vs ~15 minutes. Arlington has Metro access (Rosslyn). Norfolk has no direct Metro access.
Is Arlington or Norfolk better for families?
Both cities are popular with families. Arlington offers urban energy with a neighborhood feel. Norfolk is the cultural hub of Hampton Roads, home to Naval Station Norfolk, the world's largest naval 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.