City Comparison

Arlington vs Virginia Beach: How they compare

Arlington offers urban energy with a neighborhood feel. Virginia Beach is the state's most populous city, offering oceanfront living, a thriving resort economy, and proximity to major military installations. Both are strong options, but the details matter. Here is how they compare across price, schools, commute, taxes, walkability, and safety.

Market Overview

Arlington's median sold price is $730K with homes averaging 37 days on market; Virginia Beach is at $364K and 17 days (12-month settled sales in smover's records, through Jul 2026). Arlington is pricier ($730K median vs $364K), a difference of about $366K. Virginia Beach moves faster, with homes averaging 17 days on market compared to 37 in Arlington. Virginia Beach offers a lower entry point at $175K–$2M+.

Arlington

VA

Virginia Beach

VA

Median Sold Price

12 months through Jul 2026

$730K

$364K

Avg Days on Market

12 months through Jul 2026

37 days

17 days

Price Range

$350K–$2.5M

$175K–$2M+

Notable Neighborhoods

Ballston, Clarendon, Crystal City, Pentagon City

Oceanfront, Town Center, Great Neck, Kempsville

VA

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VA

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Arlington or Virginia Beach more affordable?

Virginia Beach is more affordable with a median sold price of $364K, compared to $730K in Arlington (12-month settled sales in smover's records, through Jul 2026). Both cities offer a wide range of housing options, from condos and townhomes to single-family homes. Arlington prices range from $350K–$2.5M. Virginia Beach prices range from $175K–$2M+.

How do Arlington and Virginia Beach compare?

Arlington offers urban energy with a neighborhood feel. Virginia Beach is the state's most populous city, offering oceanfront living, a thriving resort economy, and proximity to major military installations. The right choice depends on your priorities: budget, commute length, home types, and neighborhood feel. smover can connect you with a verified agent in either city.

Median sold prices and days on market are 12-month aggregates of settled sales in smover's records, through Jul 2026. 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 August 2026.

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Arlington vs Virginia Beach: $730K vs $364K (2026) | smover