Market Overview
Arlington is pricier ($750K median vs $430K), a difference of about $320K. Arlington moves faster, with homes averaging 10 days on market compared to 16 in Severn. Severn offers a lower entry point at $200K–$750K.
Arlington
VA
Severn
MD
Median Price
$750K
$430K
Avg Days on Market
10 days
16 days
Price Range
$350K–$2.5M
$200K–$750K
Top Neighborhoods
Ballston, Clarendon, Crystal City, Pentagon City
Severn Run, Meade Village, Piney Orchard, Arundel Mills
Schools
Arlington leads on school quality with a 89% average pass rate (rated Excellent) compared to 77% in Severn. Top schools in Arlington include Yorktown High School and Washington-Liberty High School. In Severn, families look to Meade High School and Old Mill High School. See Arlington schools | See Severn schools
Arlington
VA
Severn
MD
Quality Tier
Excellent
Strong
Avg Pass Rate
89%
77%
Top Schools
Yorktown High School, Washington-Liberty High School, Williamsburg Middle School
Meade High School, Old Mill High School, Severn River Middle School
Pass Rate
Commute
Arlington is closer to downtown at ~15 minutes vs ~40 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), Severn (I-97, Rt 32, Rt 3).
Arlington
VA
Severn
MD
Drive to Downtown
~15 min
~40 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-97, Rt 32, Rt 3
Commuter Rail
None
None
VA
Find agents in Arlington
Browse verified agents with real sales data in Arlington.
View top agentsMD
Find agents in Severn
Browse verified agents with real sales data in Severn.
View top agentsRelated Comparisons
See how other nearby cities stack up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Arlington or Severn more affordable?
Severn is more affordable with a median home price of $430K, 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. Severn prices range from $200K–$750K.
Which has better schools, Arlington or Severn?
Arlington has stronger schools overall, with a 89% average pass rate compared to 77% in Severn. Top schools in Arlington include Yorktown High School and Washington-Liberty High School. In Severn, standout schools include Meade High School and Old Mill High School. School quality varies by neighborhood, so check specific school zones when evaluating homes.
Which is easier to commute from, Arlington or Severn?
Arlington has the shorter commute to downtown at ~15 minutes vs ~40 minutes. Arlington has Metro access (Rosslyn). Severn has no direct Metro access.
Is Arlington or Severn better for families?
Both cities are popular with families. Arlington offers urban energy with a neighborhood feel. Severn is a growing community in Anne Arundel County, conveniently located near Fort Meade and the NSA. 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.